Players seeking a captivating and enjoyable experience similar to Elden Ring can explore these games to satisfy their gaming cravings.

FromSoftware took a risk with Elden Ring, stepping away from the established success of the Dark Souls series and venturing into an open-world setting. Despite initial skepticism, the game exceeded expectations, garnering a massive following and earning its place as one of FromSoftware’s best creations. After delving into the extensive adventure of The Lands Between, players may find themselves yearning for similar experiences. Here’s a roundup of some of the best games that capture the essence of Elden Ring, offering open-world exploration, challenging gameplay, and substantial entertainment value.

Updated February 13, 2024, by Mark Sammut: With FromSoftware’s announcement of Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC set to release in 2024, players eager for more can explore other games that share Elden Ring’s spirit while anticipating a return to The Lands Between.

The Dark Souls Series

Setting The Stage For Elden Ring

For Elden Ring players who haven’t explored the Dark Souls series, it should be a top priority. While not as open-world as Elden Ring, the gameplay and combat experience is remarkably similar. The Dark Souls saga presents dark, foreboding, and imaginatively vast worlds, akin to the atmosphere found in The Lands Between. Players who appreciate the gritty aesthetic of Elden Ring’s dungeons, castles, and catacombs will feel right at home in the Dark Souls universe.

The Dark Souls series laid the groundwork for the formula adopted in Elden Ring. Players will find themselves accustomed to resting at specific areas for character leveling, and the weapons and armor systems prevalent throughout each game. Although exploration is a key element, Dark Souls tends to guide players in a specific direction, particularly in their initial playthroughs. When it comes to boss fights, each game excels in delivering memorable, challenging, and unique encounters. Even Dark Souls 2, considered the black sheep of the franchise, offers an experience worth playing.