Dark Souls 2: 10 Lessons All Games Must Learn From It

5. Experiment With Multiplayer And PvP Modes

Aside from its infamous difficulty, Dark Souls is probably best known for its unique multiplayer features. The co-op mechanics are fairly standard but being invaded by other players for on-the-fly PvP bouts is still one of the greatest thrills in gaming (until you realise your opponent isn't messing about and kills you in three hits). Dark Souls 2 doesn't really add much to this but through the new covenants in the game; it adds a greater variety of opponents and potential allies to find. The Bell Keepers, for example, can be called upon to invade anybody entering the Belfry Luna, ensuring you'll be invaded at least once whilst exploring the area. Some covenants well help protect you though €“ the Way of the Blue members can summon Blue Sentinels in to help defend them against invading players. In a generation where multiplayer is tacked on simply to sell map packs to players, Dark Souls is a refreshing change of pace. If more developers experiment with multiplayer and how it can be incorporated into games, we'll start to see more exciting gameplay like in Dark Souls. The unexpected nature of invasions puts you on edge instantly and jolly co-operation is one of the best ways to get some help on the extra tough bosses. Of course, you could always play offline if it's too much for you; we won't judge you.