In the gaming industry, no series is as synonymous with the word “challenge” than “Dark Souls.” The most recent installment, “Dark Souls 3,” is no different, and in its own way reigns supreme to the second installment.

Unlike “Dark Souls 2,” “Dark Souls 3” is like the original in which it throws the player right into the fight. There is no tutorial; no “warm-up.” Players are subject to the game’s mercy from minute one. For returning players, it is no problem. Others might experience some issues, but hey, it isn’t a true “Dark Souls” game until you have died in the same area more than three times. Like the previous installments, the controls are easy to use and learn, but it is recommended to use a controller on PC.

The graphics are on par with every other big game this year, and will take a least a decent PC to run well. Animations are smooth, and cutscenes are very nicely done. Bugs and glitches seem to be kept to a minimum, but returning players will humorously notice that the enemy ragdoll prevails throughout the game. Difficulty ranks more on the level of the first game, as there is no mercy. Players will encounter the first boss shortly after the first load-up, and again like “Dark Souls,” he only goes down after quite a few hits.

Like the previous “Dark Souls” games, the story is mostly in the lore. However, there are some basic things known from the first couple of minutes of gameplay. Players take control of the “Ashen One,” an undead warrior, created by the player, who is tasked with averting a coming apocalypse. To do this, players must defeat four Lords of Cinder and restore balance. The story is very loose and players are generally left to do what they please. “Dark Souls 3” is not open world, but there is a lot of places for players to explore.    

“Dark Souls 3” is most definitely worth it. Personally, “Dark Souls 3” feels like a better game than its predecessor, gameplay-wise and story-wise. “Dark Souls 2” was an easier game, but fell short of the first installment. “Dark Souls 3” however, is on level with the first, and in quality even surpasses it in many ways.          

Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One

Reviewed on PC