Research-backed game lineage

Souls

Souls is included in the Series Atlas after independent recognition and an authoritative game-by-game roster audit. Editions, simple ports, DLC, bundles, canceled projects, and cameo-only appearances are excluded.

4 curated games 2011–2018 release span 0 connected branches

Release chronology

The complete path.

Ordered by researched series position, then original release date. Ports, DLC, and duplicate editions are intentionally excluded.

4 games in this lineage

Mainline2011

Dark Souls

Dark Souls is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released in September 2011 as a spiritual sequel to Demon's Souls, it is set in a dark, medieval fantasy world. It is renowned for its challenging gameplay, intricate level design, and deep lore. Players control a customizable character known as the Chosen Undead, embarking on a perilous journey to uncover the secrets of the cursed land of Lordran. Dark Souls is known for its punishing difficulty, requiring players to carefully manage combat, stamina, and resources while navigating hostile environments filled with dangerous enemies and formidable bosses. The game features a unique multiplayer component, allowing players to leave messages for others, summon allies for cooperative play, or invade other players' worlds for PvP combat. The original release of Dark Souls received critical acclaim for its atmospheric world, innovative mechanics, and rewarding gameplay, solidifying its place as a seminal title in the action RPG genre.

Sep 22, 201189/100

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Mainline2014

Dark Souls II

Dark Souls II is an action role-playing game set in the kingdom of Drangleic. Players control the Bearer of the Curse, navigating a dark, interconnected world filled with challenging enemies and complex boss encounters. Combat emphasizes precise timing, stamina management, and adaptability, with options for dual-wielding, varied weapon types, and a flexible character progression system. The online servers were shut down on March 31st, 2024.

Mar 11, 201485/100

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Mainline2016

Dark Souls III

Dark Souls III is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released in March 2016, it is the fourth entry in the Souls series and the final instalment in the Dark Souls trilogy. Set in the decaying kingdom of Lothric, players take on the role of the "Ashen One," an undead warrior tasked with rekindling the First Flame to prevent the world from falling into darkness. The game features challenging combat, intricate level design, and a deep, lore-rich narrative.

Mar 24, 201687/100

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Remaster2018

Dark Souls: Remastered

Dark Souls Remastered is a remastered version of the original game Dark Souls. The updated version of the game features graphical enhancements, an expanded online mode, and the Artorias of the Abyss DLC.

May 23, 201887/100

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Sources and method

Built from the public record.

Membership is researched from external official and independent sources. Mainline games, direct spin-offs, remakes, remasters, and standalone expansions are included; DLC, simple ports, duplicate editions, compilation-only duplicates, rumors, cancellations, and cameo-only crossovers are excluded.

database Dark Souls collection — IGDB
IGDB maintains a distinct collection record for Dark Souls and supplies the authoritative roster used for membership verification.
reference List of video game franchises
The independent catalog recognizes Souls as a multi-game franchise and supports its inclusion in this major-series research sweep.