Comment on I have started a magic-only challenge in Dark Souls 1
Coelacanth@feddit.nu 3 days agoDark Souls 1 still holds a special place in my heart, but be warned that the bosses are going to feel very underwhelming after Elden Ring. It’s a weird thing where the areas themselves are still fairly challenging even compared to ER - maybe even harder - but the bosses are much easier.
The level design of the first 2/3rds of DS1 is to this day the best level design From ever did, I think.
GrantUsEyes@lemmy.zip 3 days ago
I’m also going through my first DS1 playthrough and, it’s just another vibe. I had no issue adjusting to what the world was giving me. It’s immersive and charming; as you said traversing the world is the challenge here, and feels rewarding af. Elden ring is the culmination of all those years of perfecting boss design under this formula, it’s so great to see where everything comes from. I debated hard wether to play this or demon souls first … Now I don’t want it to end.
Coelacanth@feddit.nu 3 days ago
Few things are as satisfying as unlocking shortcuts during your first blind playthrough of Dark Souls. Kicking that ladder the first time, all those moments of "…wait this goes there?*, climbing back up into Firelink from the depths of Blighttown, having your buddy tell you about The Great Hollow and having your mind blown… It’s just a magical experience.
I get why people start with Elden Ring, but I wish more would just do DS1 first. If this is your first soulslike even the bosses will feel epic, but they really aren’t much compared to what the later games offer. Even the DLC bosses aren’t too bad, though one of them is truly iconic.
GrantUsEyes@lemmy.zip 3 days ago
Those dopamine hits, unparalleled.
The way the world invites you to just look a little closer, walk a little further… But careful, don’t indulge too much otherwise, Death. it teaches the mechanics so good.
Unfortunately yes, playing other titles first spoils some of the experience, you learn to anticipate too many things. Regardless I’ve still been surprised, mostly the level design. It is superb. I do not feel let down by the bosses, they are easier, but still good. I appreciate the fights, and everything arround is so well made the simplicity doesn’t have an effect on my enjoyment. I think I am around halfway through, and looking forward to the rest.
Coelacanth@feddit.nu 3 days ago
I’m glad you’re having a blast with it, DS1 might still be my favourite From game even though I realise nostalgia plays a huge part of course.
Just a warning for when you get closer to the end: Dark Souls 1 has a ton of hidden content that you’re extremely unlikely to find on your own. You might want to look some of it up, because it does in fact include the DLC. Yes that’s right, From sold you a paid DLC and hid the entry to it in a way most people would never stumble upon on their own.