Feature: The Best Xbox Soulslike Games NOT Made By FromSoftware
By Indeed, we all acknowledge that FromSoftware creates remarkably impressive soulslikes – they excel at it, one might say. You know the types, like Dark Souls, Sekiro, and that whole Elden Ring phenomenon. And Demon’s Sou… you get the idea.
When confronted with the creations of the pioneers who conceptualized this genre, it’s challenging to settle for what can occasionally feel like inferior alternatives. Like when your dad gifted you that imitation Manchester United jersey with incorrect branding. No, dad, that’s really not acceptable.
But here’s the deal. Leave those thoughts behind. Because the soulslike genre, especially in recent years, has introduced some truly outstanding Xbox titles that, we’re nearly certain, rival what FromSoftware has produced.
Let’s delve into the finest Xbox soulslike games, not crafted by FromSoftware, that the venerable Miyazaki would likely commend.
The Top Xbox Soulslike Games Not Developed By FromSoftware
Another Crab’s Treasure (Xbox Series X|S)
We commence, as all exceptional lists do, with the story of a crab on a quest to reclaim his shell, which has been stolen by a loan shark. Oh dear. Are we losing it? Absolutely not. Another Crab’s Treasure achieves something remarkable, you see.
This charming platformer/soulslike adventure blends humor and silliness while ensuring its combat and souls-like mechanics are top-notch.
So you enjoy a humorous journey, a light-hearted escapade that excels in both platforming and combat. With shells to trade for varied effects, and even a Sekiro-style stun mechanic (alongside a grappling hook), this title is a delightful surprise and far from the “complete mess” you might have anticipated. Play it!
- Xbox Game Pass? Yes
Blasphemous (Xbox One)
We first experienced The Game Kitchen’s incredible Blasphemous upon its release in 2019, and it has genuinely remained in our minds since.
Indeed, we could include the sequel, Blasphemous 2, here too, as it’s equally commendable, but we feel that the original deserves this spot a bit more, as it was the first to introduce us to this darkly beautiful world. As the Penitent One, you slash and battle through exquisitely animated environments and foes, in a challenging game enriched with profound lore and inspiration drawn from its creator’s religious experiences. A must-experience combining smooth combat, engaging platforming, and some of the finest death animations in the industry.
- Xbox Game Pass? No
Code Vein (Xbox One)
Bandai Namco’s Code Vein, launched on Xbox in 2019, is another standout soulslike that ascends to the upper echelons of this popular genre.
Code Vein’s narrative is exquisitely told; it’s an alternative soulslike that spares no expense typical of a AAA title. It intricately weaves a compelling tale of post-apocalyptic hardships, employing combat techniques derived from the Souls games, offering stamina-based battles filled with tension and peril, all wrapped in an epic adventure. It may take a moment to truly come alive, but the payoff is significant, enhanced by unique features like NPC companions and ‘Blood Codes’ to create a remarkable anime experience with well-executed combat.
- Xbox Game Pass? No
Dead Cells (Xbox One)
Much like our initial encounter with Blasphemous, Motion Twin & Evil Empire’s Dead Cells captivated us from the very first play session. This is yet another prime illustration of an indie interpretation of a genre now positioned alongside the industry’s giants.
Dead Cells’ cycle of risk and reward is meticulously balanced, accentuated by stunning pixel art, with lovingly crafted animations animating thrilling combat. Every new environment is a visual treat, and its combination of weapon types and gear keeps gameplay exhilarating throughout. Dead Cells significantly benefited from an extended early access phase, which allowed its developers to iterate, absorb feedback, fine-tune, and expand content until we were ultimately presented with this tour de force in the soulslike genre.
- Xbox Game Pass? Yes
Lies of P (Xbox Series X|S)
Lies of P emerged following our initial excitement and subsequent dismay with Thymesia, another indie soulslike that had lofty ambitions but didn’t fully deliver. This South Korean treasure, however, could be the closest experience you’ll get to FromSoftware quality outside that realm.
With its stunning character and world design, intricate lore, fantastic enemies, and compelling Pinocchio-inspired storyline, this game is an essential experience for any Souls aficionado. The combat manages to avoid feeling like a pale imitation by being genuinely excellent while introducing its own unique twists to the challenging combat framework.
- Xbox Game Pass? No
Lords Of The Fallen (Xbox Series X|S)
Now, let’s discuss Lords Of The Fallen (2023), not to be confused with Lords Of The Fallen (2014). Specifically, we’re addressing Lords of the Fallen (2023) in its 2.0 rendition. Great, that’s settled.
This soulslike left a significant impression on me during my initial playthrough, although with some reservations that, had I reviewed it at the time, would have led to a score around a 7, for what it’s worth. Nevertheless, Hexworks persevered with their…
Oh dear, and thus it has secured its position on this list of highly enjoyable experiences.
The recent 2.0 update, which launched at no cost a few weeks ago, implements some significant alterations to the dynamics and pacing of combat. It sharpens everything to where it needs to be, eliminating the minor floatiness in combat and substituting it with something truly substantial. The difficulty is now more finely balanced, and they have even addressed co-op progression (plus, they introduced a free friend pass for others to join in at no expense). Lords of the Fallen 2.0 has effectively put in the effort needed to elevate itself to a must-try level for soulslike enthusiasts. Excellent work.
- Xbox Game Pass? Yes
Mortal Shell (Xbox One)
We approached Mortal Shell with caution before its launch, uncertain if something that appeared this impressive could genuinely be this good, but especially in its ‘Enhanced Edition’ variant, it turns out to be exceptional. Well done, Cold Symmetry.
Mortal Shell provides all the quirky collectibles, bizarre lore, and perplexing elements one could desire from a soulslike, while introducing an incredibly cool Shell system that allows you to switch between different types found throughout the world, altering your combat approach. Honestly, transforming into a solid block and having your opponent smash their clumsy sword against you never gets tiring. On top of that, Mortal Shell can be completed in just 20 hours. It’s entirely doable!
- Xbox Game Pass? No
Remnant 2 (Xbox Series X|S)
The original Remnant was a satisfactory experience, a clear representation of a middling soulslike that fulfills its purpose but is quickly forgotten.
However, Gunfire Games returned, demonstrating that their initial attempt was merely a framework for the grandeur that was yet to come. Any concerns we had regarding the intense (often unsettling) combat have been robustly addressed, as this shooter-focused soulslike is an absolute thrill (and a significant challenge) to conquer, particularly with friends. A blend of looter-shooter and team-based tactical FPS, this soulslike offers depth, fantastic enemy and boss designs, and extensive options for clever builds. Remnant 2 is truly fantastic.
- Xbox Game Pass? Yes
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor (Xbox Series X|S)
We were immensely impressed by Star Wars Jedi: Survivor during our initial playthrough. This sequel expands dramatically, creating a more extensive open world in all the right aspects, and stands as one of our all-time favorite Star Wars games.
It also serves as an excellent soulslike in terms of its core combat loop – much like its predecessor – with a genuine challenge, even for veteran Souls players when formidable enemies and bosses join the fray. Especially if you increase the difficulty (which feels too easy on normal, in this author’s view).
Where the first Jedi installment felt close yet had some hiccups, the combat in this sequel is significantly refined. With smoother animations, clearer enemy attacks, and more cohesive fight design, this iteration is far superior, and even the shortcuts and intricate level designs have reached an impressive level of finesse. Plus, it’s Star Wars, so it’s inherently enjoyable, right?
- Xbox Game Pass? No
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The Surge 2 (Xbox One)
Another soulslike sequel aiming to rectify the flaws of its predecessor, The Surge 2 offers a brutal yet impressively unique experience that, despite a few dull level design issues, unquestionably provides fans of challenging gameplay more than ample engagement. As for the bland level design, don’t be put off; we’re merely referencing a handful of uninspiring corridors amidst some very compelling content. Everyone appreciates corridors, right? What’s the fuss?
Additionally, in borrowing core combat loops focused on stamina, retrieving lost gear upon death, and so forth, this futuristic tale introduces its own standout mechanic of severing limbs and stripping gear from adversaries. This worked well in the first title, but it excels here, alongside memorable boss battles and remarkable world-building (which is impressively oppressive). The Surge 2 enhances the best elements of its dicey predecessor, raising it to must-play territory for soulslike fans.
- Xbox Game Pass? No
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty (Xbox Series X|S)
Our final entry is simply due to an alphabetical oversight, as Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty brings some soulslike affection to Xbox owners. Since we can’t have the phenomenal Nioh series, this exceptional action game will have to suffice. You monsters.
However, you do capture the essence of Nioh here. In fact, in my view, Wo Long might actually be the superior experience for revisiting. It reaches such a high standard that it can easily stand shoulder to shoulder with the team’s other titles. In our review during its launch, we noted:
“Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty delivers spectacular combat within a richly atmospheric environment blending historical events, Chinese mythology, and dark fantasy elements. Its clever battle system features deflections, ripostes, and earth-shaking critical hits, alongside an innovative morale ranking and recruitment system that makes the action adaptable for newcomers to the genre.”
All in all, another must-experience.
Xbox Game Pass? No
And that concludes this particular list. We’re certain you have your own favorites (and some dislike) from the soulslike genre that aren’t developed by FromSoftware. Please tell us if you think we’ve missed something in the comments!