IM PLAYIN takes a look at Dark Souls II from the viewpoint of a veteran of the series.
"For veterans of the Souls series, death is something that we’re used to. We’ve been stabbed, smashed, smeared, poked, dissolved; you name it, we’ve probably died from it. However, to us each death makes us stronger, smarter, and faster. Much like those who play it, the Souls series has learned along the way. It’s gotten more refined since its debut in 2009 with its hit Demon’s Souls, and now developer From Software has pulled out all the stops to create the ultimate Souls experience. Dark Souls 2 is a great game for newcomers to the series (as Alec will discuss), but it’s also an anthem for the fans."
Dark Souls 2 remains a divisive entry in the landmark RPG franchise, but Hidetaka Miyazaki believes it led to the success of Elden Ring.
DS2 was fine. While there was a bit of recycling assets or ideas for bosses, it was a bigger more open Dark Souls. The Fume knight boss is one of the hardest bosses in the series until Sekiro and Elden Ring were released.
The problem with Dark Souls 2 was the same problem when a different director takes over for a sequel to an outstanding movie. It typically (there are exceptions) doesn’t have the feel and vision of the previous movie.
I wouldn’t say Dark Souls 2 is terrible. Had Dark Souls 1 never been a thing and we got this, I think it would have been praised more. The problem is it didn’t have the Miyazaki touch to it and felt pretty derivative. The soundtrack is a banger though.
I like DS 2, might even be my favorite of the 3. But it's a hard sell, there's so many obscure things you need to do to make it an enjoyable experience. So always find it hard to recommend, but it is worth the trouble.
TheGamer writes, "Some weapons resist the test of time."
The Nerd Stash: “Whether you’re here to gloat about your victories or to see what the fuss is about, we present to you the hardest bosses in the Souls series.”