10 Best Dark Souls Games That AREN'T Dark Souls
8. Ashen
Almost every mechanic in Ashen has an equivalent in Dark Souls. Ashen’s combat is slightly pared back when compared to other Soulslikes but it still feels tactical and weighty enough to be enjoyable. Victory often comes down to how well you’ve managed your stamina meter.
Overall, it’s simpler and less intimidating than many other Soulslikes; Ashen is an ideal introduction to this style of action RPG. The game insists on you playing in co-op, either with an AI companion or with another player who will seamlessly join your game through some unintrusive matchmaking. Co-op is of course a feature in Dark Souls, but it’s positively encouraged in Ashen.
The game’s presentation is charming as well; the characters and world are rendered in a cartoonish and expressive art style reminiscent of early indie darling, Journey.
While Ashen adds nothing new to the Souls formula it is a very competent and enjoyable adventure in its own right.