The recent announcement that FromSoftware’s next ambitious title, *The Duskbloods*—a mysterious online multiplayer game with a gothic, quasi-Victorian setting that many are calling the closest thing to *Bloodborne 2*—will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 at a $449.99 price point has left fans divided. While it's understandable for Soulsborne enthusiasts to feel disappointed, there's no need to fall into despair just yet.
Since the release of *Dark Souls* in 2011, which cemented FromSoftware’s place in gaming history, numerous developers have attempted to either replicate or reimagine the studio’s signature gameplay loop. While many have fallen short, quite a few have succeeded—some even offering fresh twists on the genre while staying true to its core essence.
You're likely already familiar with some of the bigger names like *Nioh*, *Lies of P*, and *Black Myth: Wukong*. However, some of the most innovative and satisfying soulslike experiences have come from small indie studios. Without the budgets or resources of AAA studios, these teams had to get creative—and their ingenuity resulted in games that scratch the same challenging itch as any Soulsborne title.
Below is a list of ten standout indie soulslikes you can play today—no Switch 2 required.
Eldest Souls
Developer: Fallen Flag Studio | Publisher: United Label, CI Games | Release Date: July 29, 2021 | Read IGN Review
While the Soulsborne formula includes deep exploration, skill-based combat, cryptic storytelling, and atmospheric level design, *Eldest Souls* focuses on what many consider the most thrilling part: boss battles. This 2D boss-rush experience puts players in the role of a lone warrior navigating a sprawling, eerie citadel filled with grotesque creatures.
Despite being a 2D title, *Eldest Souls* delivers surprisingly fluid and dynamic combat, where each encounter feels like a puzzle you must solve through timing, positioning, and reflexes—even if it often comes down to pressing the right button at the right time.
Blasphemous
Developer: The Game Kitchen | Publisher: Team17 | Release Date: September 10, 2019 | Read IGN Review
For those who found themselves immersed in the haunting architecture and eldritch themes of Yharnam in *Bloodborne*, *Blasphemous* offers a similarly unsettling world rooted in Catholic iconography. Set in the grim land of Cvstodia, this 2D Metroidvania follows a masked crusader uncovering dark truths behind a twisted religious order.
Its visual and narrative inspiration draws heavily from Renaissance-era religious art and Spanish Inquisition imagery. The game’s grotesque yet mesmerizing designs rival even FromSoftware’s own, especially in its sequel, *Blasphemous 2*, and its *Mea Culpa* DLC.
Tunic
Developer: Tunic Team | Publisher: Finji | Release Date: March 16, 2022 | Read IGN Review
Rather than copying FromSoftware directly, *Tunic* takes inspiration from the very titles that influenced Hidetaka Miyazaki himself—particularly the early *Zelda* games. It’s a 3D isometric action-adventure that channels a sense of mystery and discovery.
Despite its adorable fox protagonist, *Tunic* features a deliberately confusing layout, indecipherable dialogue, and an overarching mystery reminiscent of *Dark Souls* and *Elden Ring*. There are no waypoints or hints—only your intuition and persistence to guide you.
Tails of Iron
Developer: Odd Bug Studio | Publisher: United Label | Release Date: September 17, 2021
At first glance, *Tails of Iron* may seem whimsical, with its charming picture-book visuals and squeaky-voiced mouse knights. But beneath the surface lies a brutal and emotionally charged tale filled with betrayal, bloodshed, and war—reminiscent of *Game of Thrones* and *The Witcher*.
While not as abstract in storytelling as FromSoftware’s titles, *Tails of Iron* still shines with richly detailed environments and immersive world-building that echo the atmosphere of *Dark Souls* and *Elden Ring*.
Mortal Shell
Developer: Cold Symmetry | Publisher: Playstack | Release Date: August 18, 2021 | Read IGN Review
One of the more visually striking indie soulslikes, *Mortal Shell* reimagines character progression by allowing players to inhabit different “shells”—each with unique builds and abilities. This mechanic introduces variety in how you approach each boss fight.
With its haunting aesthetic and intense enemy design—especially the unforgettable final boss—it offers a combat experience that rivals even *Bloodborne*’s Lovecraftian dread.
Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption
Developer: Dark Star | Publisher: Neon Doctrine | Release Date: October 23, 2018 | Read IGN Review
This title flips the traditional soulslike progression model by forcing players to weaken their character before each boss battle. You must decide which ability to sacrifice, making every fight increasingly difficult.
With bosses representing the Seven Deadly Sins and a non-linear structure, *Sinner* encourages strategic planning and adaptability, enhancing replay value and challenge.
Nine Sols
Developer: RedCandleGames | Publisher: RedCandleGames | Release Date: May 29, 2024
Taking clear cues from *Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice*, *Nine Sols* emphasizes defensive mechanics like parrying, dodging, and blocking over brute force. Combat demands precision and rhythm, rewarding players who master enemy patterns.
Set in a cyberpunk-infused East Asian mythological world, it blends fast-paced, reactive gameplay with a richly layered aesthetic.
Unsighted
Developer: Studio Pixel Punk | Publisher: Humble Games | Release Date: September 30, 2021
A standout feature in Soulsborne games is the emotional connection forged with NPCs. *Unsighted* turns this into a central gameplay mechanic: every character runs on limited power and disappears when depleted.
This creates urgency in exploration and decision-making, pushing players to optimize their route and prioritize objectives under pressure—an evolution of the
