20. Bloodborne (2015)
At first glance, Bloodborne is just another Souls game with a fresh aesthetic. And that’s what it is, trading a grimdark medieval setting for gothic, Lovecraftian horror. However, FROM Software has made some tweaks to the gameplay as well. Shields are practically nonexistent, and the game’s Rally system encourages players to go on the offensive after taking damage. Small changes that have a major impact on the pace and flow of combat. In my opinion, this is the best Souls game.
Varied and innovative boss encounters, excellent multiplayer, and a rich lore-filled world to explore. Could I be describing any Souls game? Of course. But Bloodborne is this genre at its best.
(Note: Elder Rings could potentially take Bloodborne’s place as FROM Software’s best, but this author has yet to spend enough time with it to make that determination).
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