Should I Play Elden Ring or Dark Souls First?
Elden Ring and Dark Souls are two of the most iconic and challenging games in the world of gaming. As a newcomer to the Soulsborne genre, you may be wondering which game to start with. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of playing Elden Ring or Dark Souls first, helping you make an informed decision.
Difficulty Levels
Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about the difficulty levels of both games. Elden Ring is considered to be slightly easier than Dark Souls, mainly due to its more guided narrative and forgiving gameplay mechanics. However, both games are notoriously challenging, and you should be prepared for a tough ride.
Story and Setting
Both games have unique stories and settings that will immerse you in their respective worlds. Elden Ring is set in a vast, open world inspired by medieval Europe, while Dark Souls takes place in a gothic, atmospheric world filled with mystery and intrigue.
Gameplay Mechanics
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Elden Ring features a more fluid combat system and a greater emphasis on exploration, while Dark Souls is known for its more methodical and strategic combat.
Conclusion
Based on the information above, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of playing Elden Ring or Dark Souls first:
Elden Ring:
Pros:
- Slightly easier difficulty level
- More guided narrative
- More fluid combat system
- Greater emphasis on exploration
Cons:
- Less atmospheric and mysterious setting
- Less strategic combat
Dark Souls:
Pros:
- Atmosphere and mystery
- Strategic combat
- Rich lore and story
Cons:
- Higher difficulty level
- Less guided narrative
- Less fluid combat system
Recommendation
Ultimately, the decision to play Elden Ring or Dark Souls first comes down to your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a more accessible game with a greater emphasis on exploration, Elden Ring might be the better choice. If you’re looking for a more challenging game with a rich atmosphere and strategic combat, Dark Souls might be the better choice.
Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:
| Elden Ring | Dark Souls | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Level | Slightly easier | More challenging |
| Narrative | More guided | Less guided |
| Combat | More fluid | More methodical |
| Setting | Open world | Gothic, atmospheric |
| Exploration | Greater emphasis | Less emphasis |
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both Elden Ring and Dark Souls are excellent games that will challenge and immerse you in their respective worlds. Whether you choose to play Elden Ring or Dark Souls first, you’ll be in for a thrilling ride.