FromSoftware has given us some of the most iconic action RPGs ever made. Two of their biggest hits, Elden Ring and Dark Souls 3, share the same DNA but offer very different experiences. If you’re trying to decide which one to dive into (or revisit) in 2025, here’s a complete breakdown.
Gameplay & World Design
Elden Ring
Elden Ring takes the Souls formula into a fully open-world environment. The Lands Between is massive, filled with dungeons, hidden bosses, and countless secrets. You can explore on horseback, approach challenges in any order, and enjoy a greater sense of freedom than any previous FromSoftware title.
Dark Souls 3
Dark Souls 3 sticks to the classic interconnected world design, with tight, linear paths and cleverly hidden shortcuts. It’s a more structured journey, perfect for players who like focused exploration without getting lost in vast maps.
Combat & Mechanics
- Elden Ring: More build diversity with dozens of weapon types, Ashes of War, and Spirit Summons for AI companions during fights. Combat feels slightly slower but more strategic due to the open-world pacing.
- Dark Souls 3: Faster, more aggressive combat than previous Souls games. It demands precision, quick reactions, and mastery of stamina management.
Boss Fights
Both games have incredible boss design, but their style differs:
- Elden Ring: Larger variety of bosses thanks to the open world, though some are reused. Many fights offer multiple ways to win using summons, ranged attacks, or mounts.
- Dark Souls 3: More refined and intense boss encounters, with memorable fights like Pontiff Sulyvahn and Slave Knight Gael.
Graphics & Performance
- Elden Ring: More expansive environments, day/night cycle, and weather effects. Best experienced on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, or a high-end PC for stable 60 FPS.
- Dark Souls 3: Older but still visually stunning with gothic architecture and atmospheric lighting. Runs smoothly on modern hardware.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Elden Ring | Dark Souls 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2022 | 2016 |
| World Type | Open World | Interconnected Zones |
| Mounts | Yes (Torrent) | No |
| Summons | Spirit Ashes & Co-op | Co-op Summons Only |
| Combat Pace | Moderate | Fast & Aggressive |
| Boss Variety | High, some repetition | Fewer but more polished |
| Exploration | Highly Freeform | Structured & Guided |
| Replay Value | Very High | High |
Which One Should You Play?
- Choose Elden Ring if you want a massive, open-world adventure with endless exploration, build variety, and the freedom to approach challenges your way.
- Choose Dark Souls 3 if you prefer a focused, tightly designed world with fast-paced combat and expertly crafted boss fights.
Final Verdict:
If you’re new to FromSoftware games, Elden Ring is more accessible thanks to its open-world flexibility and multiple combat options. But for veterans seeking pure, refined Souls gameplay, Dark Souls 3 still stands as one of the most satisfying action RPG experiences ever made.
