Should I Play Dark Souls 1 and 2 Before 3?
The Dark Souls series has gained a cult following for its challenging gameplay, dark atmosphere, and intricate storytelling. With three games in the series, new players may wonder which one to start with. Should you play Dark Souls 1 and 2 before diving into Dark Souls 3? The answer is not a simple yes or no. In this article, we’ll explore the connections between the games and provide guidance on which order to play them.
The Connection Between the Games
Dark Souls 3 is heavily influenced by the first two games, and understanding the lore and world of Lordran will enhance your experience. Dark Souls 3 is not a standalone game, and playing the first two games will provide valuable context and backstory. The game’s world, characters, and story are deeply connected to the previous two games.
Dark Souls 1: A Classic, But Challenging
Dark Souls 1 is considered a classic, but it’s also notorious for its difficulty. The game’s world, Lordran, is dark, atmospheric, and treacherous, with a steep learning curve. However, this game sets the stage for the series and introduces many of the core mechanics and themes that define Dark Souls.
Dark Souls 2: A Different Beast
Dark Souls 2 is often criticized for its departure from the formula established in the first game. The game’s world, Drangleic, is more diverse and vibrant, with a greater emphasis on exploration and character customization. However, this game’s story is more disjointed, and the gameplay is less punishing than Dark Souls 1.
Dark Souls 3: The Conclusion of the Series
Dark Souls 3 is the culmination of the series, tying together the storylines and characters from the previous games. The game’s world, Lothric, is a fusion of Lordran and Drangleic, with a rich narrative and challenging gameplay. Playing Dark Souls 1 and 2 before 3 will provide a deeper understanding of the world and characters, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the game.
Should You Play the Games in Order?
While playing the games in order will provide the most context and continuity, it’s not a requirement. You can still enjoy Dark Souls 3 without playing the previous games, but you’ll miss out on the richer storytelling and world-building. If you’re new to the series, we recommend starting with Dark Souls 1 to get a feel for the gameplay and atmosphere.
Key Takeaways
- Dark Souls 3 is heavily influenced by the first two games, and playing them will provide valuable context and backstory.
- Dark Souls 1 is a classic, but challenging game that sets the stage for the series.
- Dark Souls 2 is a different beast, with a more diverse world and less punishing gameplay.
- Dark Souls 3 is the culmination of the series, tying together the storylines and characters from the previous games.
- You can still enjoy Dark Souls 3 without playing the previous games, but playing them will enhance your experience.
Conclusion
Playing Dark Souls 1 and 2 before 3 will provide a richer understanding of the world and characters, but it’s not a requirement. If you’re new to the series, start with Dark Souls 1 to get a feel for the gameplay and atmosphere. Regardless of which order you play the games, be prepared for a challenging and rewarding experience.
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