Top 10 Indie Soulslike Games Revealed

Loyal fans of the Soulsborne series were caught off guard recently when it was announced that FromSoftware’s upcoming project, The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer game with a Victorian-inspired aesthetic, will be exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2 for $449.99. While the news left many hunters, tarnished souls, and undead disappointed, it’s worth noting that the allure of the Soulsborne experience has inspired countless developers to craft their own interpretations of Hidetaka Miyazaki’s enigmatic formula.

Over the years, numerous studios have attempted to emulate or reinvent the Soulsborne magic. While some fell short, several smaller indie teams have risen to the occasion, producing inventive and engaging games that deliver on the core appeal of challenging combat, cryptic lore, and atmospheric worlds. These titles often rely on creativity over sheer scale, resulting in memorable experiences despite limited resources. Here are ten standout indie soulslikes you can enjoy today, regardless of whether you own a Nintendo Switch 2.

Eldest Souls

**Developer:** Fallen Flag Studio **Publisher:** United Label, CI Games **Release Date:** July 29, 2021 **Review:** [Read IGN's Eldest Souls review](#)

A boss-rush gauntlet through a sprawling Bloodborne-inspired citadel, Eldest Souls focuses on delivering dynamic combat against creatively designed enemies. Unlike many 2D games, its combat system feels responsive and varied, rewarding players who adapt to each encounter rather than simply mashing buttons.

Blasphemous

**Developer:** The Game Kitchen **Publisher:** Team17 **Release Date:** September 10, 2019 **Review:** [Read IGN's Blasphemous review](#)

Set in Cvstodia, a world steeped in Renaissance Italian and Inquisition-era Spanish art, Blasphemous follows a masked crusader uncovering the dark secrets of his Catholic-inspired order. Its mesmerizing visuals and challenging boss fights rival those of FromSoftware’s finest, making it a must-play for Soulsborne enthusiasts.

Tunic

**Developer:** Tunic Team **Publisher:** Finji **Release Date:** March 16, 2022 **Review:** [Read IGN's Tunic review](#)

Inspired by classic Zelda games, Tunic combines the charm of anthropomorphic foxes with FromSoftware’s signature cryptic level design. Without objective markers or decipherable dialogue, players must explore its interconnected world, piecing together clues to uncover its mysteries.

Tails of Iron

**Developer:** Odd Bug Studio **Publisher:** United Label **Release Date:** September 17, 2021

Combining a picture-book aesthetic with grim tales of betrayal and death, Tails of Iron follows a mouse knight navigating a violent fantasy world. Despite its cutesy appearance, its dense environments and brutal combat evoke the spirit of Dark Souls, with a touch of Game of Thrones grit.

Mortal Shell

**Developer:** Cold Symmetry **Publisher:** Playstack **Release Date:** August 18, 2021 **Review:** [Read IGN's Mortal Shell review](#)

With a focus on precise combat mechanics, Mortal Shell introduces a unique mechanic where players inhabit the bodies (shells) of preset characters. This approach offers a fresh take on combat styles while maintaining the punishing difficulty fans adore.

Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption

**Developer:** Dark Star **Publisher:** Neon Doctrine **Release Date:** October 23, 2018 **Review:** [Read IGN's Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption review](#)

Instead of progressing through levels, Sinner forces players to level down before each boss fight, increasing the challenge with every encounter. This innovative twist makes each run feel distinct and encourages strategic planning.

Nine Sols

**Developer:** RedCandleGames **Publisher:** RedCandleGames **Release Date:** May 29, 2024

Drawing heavily from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Nine Sols emphasizes defensive combat, rewarding players who master timing and patience. Its cyberpunk-meets-Eastern-mythology setting adds a unique flair to the Soulslike formula.

Unsighted

**Developer:** Studio Pixel Punk **Publisher:** Humble Games **Release Date:** September 30, 2021

In Unsighted, every NPC has a limited lifespan tied to their energy supply. This mechanic creates a sense of urgency, encouraging players to act swiftly while strategically planning their progression. Its Metroidvania roots add depth to the experience.

Another Crab’s Treasure

**Developer:** Aggro Crab **Publisher:** Aggro Crab **Release Date:** April 25, 2024

Featuring a quirky crustacean protagonist searching for its lost shell, Another Crab’s Treasure stands out with its novel approach to defense. Players customize their shell by scavenging human trash, adapting to diverse challenges as they progress.

Exanima

**Developer:** Bare Mettle Entertainment **Publisher:** Bare Mettle Entertainment **Release Date:** April 29, 2015

Still in early access, Exanima blends physics-based survival mechanics with Soulsborne-like combat. Its punishing difficulty and suspenseful encounters have kept players hooked for years, proving the staying power of the Soulslike formula.

These ten games showcase the diversity and creativity of indie developers tackling the Soulsborne formula. If you’re looking for more recommendations, check out titles like Death's Door, Loot River, Featherfall, and Dark Devotion. Have another indie soulslike favorite? Let us know in the comments!