That same open world also makes the notoriously difficult “Soulslike” genre more accessible to newcomers or cautious players though, introducing summonable, AI-controlled spirit allies, while allowing the flexibility to run off and explore somewhere else if any particular area proves too challenging - all without sacrificing the brutal challenge beloved by longtime fans. The freedom to explore beckons players to uncover the innumerable secrets scattered around the mysterious Lands Between, while its combat system feels materially different with every single character build. It was always going to be Elden Ring topping this list, wasn’t it? FromSoftware’s open world approach to its own Dark Souls formula elevated the genre as a whole to dizzying new heights. With satisfyingly weighty melee combat, a fun selection of weapons and telekinetic powers to unlock, and some serious jump scares, this shows imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery. Yet while this doesn’t exactly win awards for originality, stepping into the shoes of Jacob Lee as he breaks out of the intimidating Black Iron Prison – an isolated facility on Jupiter’s most inhospitable moon – while figuring out exactly why the dead are rising (and mutating) makes for one of the best horror experiences in years. With its third-person over-the-shoulder view, its gruff protagonist with an in-unverse health display conveniently on the back of his neck, and undead monsters you can dissect with bullets – not to mention being co-created by Glen Schofield – the similarities are almost endless. The Callisto Protocol isn’t actually a Dead Space game, but it shares so much DNA that it’s often barely distinguishable. Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC
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