5. Dark Souls II
Dark Souls II isn’t a bad game by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, it’s still one of the best action RPGs on the market right now. However, it’s last in this ranking of the Soulsborne games because it’s simply the weakest of the lot. From Software’s Soulsborne games have always been lauded for their ingenious level design, verticality, and area geography – the one thing that felt severely lacking in Dark Souls II. In what world does it make sense for a flaming lava fortress sit directly above a poison pit tower?
Not to mention, the windmill ‘puzzle’ in the Earthen Peak was also one of the most obtuse and silliest mechanics we’d ever seen in the series.
Dark Souls II did have some redeeming qualities, of course. PVP-centric players could enter duels easily, and the combat had been refined and polished to a shine. Gameplay-wise, Dark Souls II is one of the best in the series, but its weird level design and lackluster lore are what hold it back.
