Summary
The soulslike genre is known for its emphasis on combat, but that doesn’t mean these games usually offer fast-paced, extremely dynamic encounters. In fact, many games in the genre offer quite the opposite. FromDark SoulsandElden RingtoLords of the FallenandLies of P, combat in such games is equally responsive and strategic. Players can choose their own pace, deciding whether to play offensively or defensively.
However, for players who crave more blood-pumping, edge-of-your-seat action, plenty of soulslikes also strive to offer just that. Some games emphasize player aggressiveness, taking away shields and leaving players with no other defense options than quick evading or parrying before delivering a devastating blow. Below fans will find some of the best third-person soulslike action games with combat notably faster and more aggressive than one’s average expectations of the genre.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twicestands as FromSoftware’s soulslike game with by far the most fast-paced and dynamic combat system. In fact, it is said that players who have never played the studio’s previous soulslikes will have an easier time adapting to this new combat system built exclusively on rhythm and parrying.
Without any weapons aside from the sword and a very limited character progression system,Sekiroforces players to face stronger foes head-on, without the option to retreat, gain XP, and return later. Instead, players must master the combat and learn how and when to parry. When done correctly,duels inSekiroturn into lightning-fast, spectacular dances that end with just a few successful blows.
Remnant 2is a rarebreed of third-person soulslike shooter, inherently faster-paced than anyDark Soulsgame. While players can opt for full melee builds, the core experience revolves around finding the gun that best matches one’s playstyle. From traditional firearms to exotic pulse rifles, energy beam weapons, and even bows and crossbows,Remnant 2offers something for everyone — although finding the perfect match might be harder than it sounds.
Each weapon in the game feels genuinely unique, and once players master their chosen weapons, they can focus on firing while evading attacks from all directions. Given thatRemnant 2is also built around co-op, some of the game’s dynamic standoffs against bosses, who can even teleport players all around the arena, are truly hard to forget.
TheNiohseries is probably among the first recommendations for anyone new to the soulslike genre, and for good reasons. Team Ninja’s games earn their place among fan favorites of the genre for their frantic combat system, featuring switchable stances, various weapon and skill types, spirits, a randomized loot system, anddeep customization options for one’s build.
Nioh 2is also one of the faster-paced soulslikes out there, with dynamic clashes that keep fans constantly engaged, and weapon types that feel distinct. Additionally, the mission structure ensures players never get bored wandering a huge open world trying to figure out their next step or reach the next hidden boss.
TheStar Wars Jediseries offers a great mix between action-platformers and soulslikes, and the sequel achieves just the perfect blend of the two. With various lightsaber stances, flexible customization, and more combinations than ever,Jedi: Survivoris aStar Warsgame with some of the best lightsaber combat fans can find on the market today.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor’s combat is fast, precise, and spectacular. Once players master their two favorite lightsaber stances to switch between on the go,every boss fight turns into a great showfull of last-second evades, sparkling parries and multi-hit combos confidently delivered by Cal Kestis. Be careful, though: many bosses are known for their nasty one-shot attacks, so it might take a while to learn all their combat patterns.
Bloodborneis another of FromSoftware’s soulslikes that notably deviates from the usual combat seen in theDark Soulsseries. In the grim world ofBloodborne, being aggressive is the key to survival, as players can regain a portion of their lost health if they quickly retaliate. There are also no shields in the game. Instead,Hunters of Yharnam rely on quick side armsthat allow them to parry their prey, stun it, and then finish it off.
Even the huge weapons inBloodbornefeel faster to wield than in previous FromSoftware games. They offer transformations mid-combo and an additional switchable mode to deal with faster enemies. Speaking of which, enemies in the game are as aggressive as the faster-paced combat suggests, so there’s usually no time to take a break, especially when facing terrifying bosses.
Like every soulslike made by Team Ninja,Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty’s combat is notably faster than an average soulslike. From animations to combo attack speed, parrying, and finishers, this is probably as fast as action games in the genre can go. Be warned, though, asbosses are as fast and aggressiveas the player character, leaving no room for hesitation during key fights.
Wo Long: Fallen Dynastyfeatures an abundance of different mechanics and stats that some players might find difficult to fully grasp. On the other hand, such depth and flexibility offer great replayability and build-tweaking opportunities that fans may spend hours perfecting.
Thymesiais acompact indie soulslike gamefans can beat in just about ten hours, boasting heavyBloodbornevibes with its plague-ridden world. Despite its short length, this game shouldn’t be overlooked, as it is almost as exciting to play as any other major soulslikes and quite stylish as well.
InThymesia, players can expect a fast-paced approach to combat, evident in the protagonist’s every move. Quick evades, blazing-fast deflects, and deadly executions are essential for survival. Additionally, constant attacking is crucial inThymesiabecause if enemies are given room to breathe, they will start healing themselves. Don’t let them.
One of the most unusual entries in the iconic RPG series,Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Originis an action-soulslike through and through,throwing players into challenging combatencounters right from the start. The key feature of the game is that players won’t be alone in their journey but are accompanied by three other characters who can make each fight more manageable.
However, over-relying on one’s companions isn’t the right way to playStranger of Paradise. The game’s combat will be familiar to any fan of Team Ninja, retaining all the hallmarks of the furious approach seen in other games likeNiohorWo Long. Mastering and switching between two assigned jobs and using both physical and magical attacks in rotation are key to survival, as well as having sharp reflexes — most enemies will defeat players in just a couple of successful hits.
LikeJedi: Survivor,Darksiders 3stands between traditional action games, like the series' first two entries, and the soulslike genre, borrowing features such as rest points and respawning enemies. This combination makesDarksiders 3’s combat much faster than something akin toDark Souls, especially given how Fury is much more agile than the majority of lead characters from other games here.
Featuring quick evades, counter-attacks, and various combos with her signature whip,Darksiders 3is a streamlined action game and aperfect choice for beginners of the genre. Its combat system leaves little room for improvising or build-tweaking given its pre-designed melee and ranged weapons. Still, the options the developers provide could be just enough for taking down the Seven Deadly Sins during the game’s story.
Distinct and flashy anime-infused visual style and godlike character customization are notCode Vein’s only advantages. The game’s robust combat system offers a nice blend betweenDark SoulsandBloodborne, leaning closer to the latter in terms of enemy aggression and how fast and fluid wielding melee weapons feel — unless players opt for the biggest sword they can find.
Fighting enemies inCode Veinis rapid and visceral, with a helping hand from a companion that makes it easier on some occasions by taking the heatfrom the game’s numerous bosseswhen needed (although players can go fully solo). Additionally,Code Veinintroduces special abilities that bring variety to how fans approach challenges on their journey.
