Why Does Dark Souls 3 Ignore Dark Souls 2?
Dark Souls 3 is the latest installment in the critically acclaimed Dark Souls series, but many fans have noticed that the game seemingly ignores its predecessor, Dark Souls 2. The game’s narrative, world design, and even gameplay mechanics appear to have no connection to Dark Souls 2, leaving many to wonder why FromSoftware, the developer, made this decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind Dark Souls 3’s apparent disregard for Dark Souls 2.
A New Beginning
One of the primary reasons for the lack of connection between Dark Souls 3 and Dark Souls 2 is the desire to start fresh. FromSoftware aimed to create a new, standalone game that could be enjoyed by both new and veteran players alike. By ignoring the events and story of Dark Souls 2, the developers could focus on creating a new, unique experience that wouldn’t be bogged down by the complexities of its predecessor.
**Chronology and Canon
The timeline of the Dark Souls series is intentionally ambiguous, leaving players to interpret the events as they see fit. Dark Souls 1 and 3 are widely regarded as connected, with Dark Souls 1’s ending leading directly into the events of Dark Souls 3. Dark Souls 2, on the other hand, exists in a separate timeline or parallel universe, making it easy to ignore its story and characters.
The Power of Ignorance
IGNORING Dark Souls 2 allowed FromSoftware to:
- Focus on creating a new, self-contained story
- Introduce new characters and plotlines without being bound by the constraints of the previous game
- Streamline the game’s design and narrative to create a more cohesive experience
- Attract new players who may not have played the previous games
New Horizons
Dark Souls 3 represents a new direction for the series, with a fresh setting, characters, and gameplay mechanics. By ignoring Dark Souls 2, the developers could:
- Explore new themes and ideas
- Create a more accessible game for new players
- Build upon the foundation laid by Dark Souls 1 and 2
- Introduce new gameplay mechanics and systems
Table: Comparison of Dark Souls Games
| Dark Souls 1 | Dark Souls 2 | Dark Souls 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Story | Connected | Separate Timeline | Connected |
| Characters | Main Character: Chosen Undead | Main Character: Knight Artorias | Main Character: The Ashen One |
| Setting | Lordran | Drangleic | Lothric |
Conclusion
Dark Souls 3’s decision to ignore Dark Souls 2 was a deliberate choice made to create a new, standalone experience. By focusing on a fresh start, the developers could explore new themes, introduce new characters, and streamline the game’s design. While some fans may have been disappointed by the lack of connection between the two games, Dark Souls 3 has established itself as a unique and exciting addition to the series.
References:
- "Dark Souls 3’s Story is Connected to Dark Souls 1, Not 2" – IGN
- "Dark Souls 3’s Ignored Precursor" – Game Informer
- "Why Dark Souls 3 Ignores Dark Souls 2" – Polygon