Delayed Respawnse
  • About
  • Articles
  • Games
  • Franchises
  • Respawnses
  • Tier Lists
What Game Should I Play?
  • Home
  • About
  • Articles
  • Games
  • Xbox
  • Playstation
  • Nintendo
  • PC
  • Franchises
  • Respawnses
  • How We Score Games
  • Tier Lists
  • Take Our Quiz
  • Join the Community
  1. Home
  2. /
  3. Games
  4. /
  5. Dark Souls III

Dark Souls III

Overall Rating: 4.4 • 2754 reviews
The Investment Gamer The Resilient Player

Step into the hauntingly beautiful world of Dark Souls III, where every narrow passageway and towering castle promises both peril and adventure. Perfect for gamers who crave a thrilling escape, this epic journey offers rich storytelling, mesmerizing environments, and a satisfying blend of challenge and exploration. Discover secrets hidden deep within the shadows and engage in battles that test your bravery and cunning. Whether you’re looking for a rewarding solo experience or simply a captivating way to unwind, Dark Souls III beckons.

Get It Now Join the Community

Details

Some of the particulars and information about Dark Souls III.
Developer: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America
Release Date: April 11, 2016
How Long to Beat: 32 hrs

Great for:

The Investment Gamer The Resilient Player

Ratings

Some of the ratings and scores for Dark Souls III.
89 Metacritic
9.5 IGN
-- Our Score

Genres

Action
Adventure
Role-Playing Game
Soulslike

Systems

Here's where you can find Dark Souls III and play.

ESRB: Mature

Content Rating
Blood
Violence
Online Interactions Not Rated by the ESRB
Overview
Why Play?
How Much Time?
Overview

Journey into the hauntingly captivating world of Dark Souls III, a game that masterfully blends intricate storytelling with immersive gameplay.

Why Play?

This game isn't just about facing daunting challenges; it's about savoring each hard-won victory and diving into an experience where every choice matters.

How Much Time?

This game is known for its intense battles and intricate world design, offering players hours of immersive content that can take anywhere from 40 to 50 hours.

Engaging World and Lore

Dark Souls III transports players to a hauntingly beautiful, interconnected world where the ruins of past empires tell a story of decline and decay. Fans of atmospheric RPGs will appreciate how the backdrop complements the game’s challenging mechanics. Players familiar with previous entries, like Dark Souls III, will find lore that deepens the existing mythos, revealing new layers to a universe already rich with history. Casual adventurers might find the setting captivating enough to inspire deeper exploration, even if their initial focus isn’t lore-heavy play.

Challenging Yet Rewarding Action

For those who enjoy action RPGs, Dark Souls III offers intense combat that demands strategic play and precise timing. Its mechanics, while difficult, are fair and rewarding, providing a rush of accomplishment with each boss defeated. Players can choose between various weapon styles and magic, allowing for diverse approaches to combat. Even if you’re not familiar with the series, like Dark Souls III aficionados, the game encourages experimentation, making each victory its own reward without overwhelming technical demands.

Online and Co-op Elements

Beyond its single-player features, Dark Souls III includes online elements that enhance its replay value. Whether invading other players for a competitive challenge or summoning friends to handle difficult bosses, the multiplayer options add depth to the game’s dynamics. Comparisons to titles like Dark Souls III emphasize how the cooperative modes bring an added layer of strategy and camaraderie, perfect for those looking to share their journey through Lothric with friends. Despite its daunting reputation, the game’s social aspects invite even casual gamers to connect with a community of adventurers.

Visually Stunning Environments

Step into the universe of Dark Souls III and prepare to be captivated by its breathtaking visuals. The game immerses players in meticulously designed environments that range from gothic cathedrals to eerie swamps, each teeming with atmospheric detail. The artistry is not just about aesthetics; it supports the narrative, making every corner of the world feel significant and hauntingly alive. For gamers who appreciate visual storytelling, the rich landscapes of Dark Souls III are a testament to the developers’ ability to craft a world that’s as beautiful as it is dangerous.

Immersive Sound Design

The sound design of Dark Souls III is a crucial element in delivering an immersive gaming experience. From the subtle creaks of old wooden floors to the intense crescendos during boss fights, the audio contributes significantly to the mood and tension. The orchestrated soundtrack seamlessly transitions between fostering eerie calmness and nerve-wracking intensity, complementing every moment of gameplay. Players who invest in headphones will find themselves further drawn into this hauntingly entrancing world, where every sound tells a piece of the game’s unfolding story.

Customization and Replayability

Dark Souls III offers a high degree of character customization, ensuring that each playthrough can feel unique. From the choice of gear to skill allocation, players have the freedom to define their combat style. This customization is further complemented by multiple endings and a variety of quests that can lead to different outcomes. The game encourages exploration and experimentation, making repeat playthroughs just as thrilling as the first. For those who seek games that offer lasting appeal, the replayability of Dark Souls III presents endless opportunities for discovery and mastery.

Main Campaign Length

For many players, completing the core journey of Dark Souls III can span anywhere from 30 to 50 hours. This estimate provides enough time to explore the gripping landscapes and conquer the formidable bosses that characterize the main storyline. Of course, the length largely depends on your familiarity with challenging action RPGs and whether you choose to engage with every optional area. While experienced players may navigate through certain levels more swiftly, those new to the series might find themselves embracing a slower, more methodical approach as they adapt to the intricate combat mechanics and atmospheric exploration.

Expanding with Side Content

Diving deeper into the world of Dark Souls III can extend your playtime significantly. The game is renowned for its additional side quests, intricate NPC interactions, and hidden locations, which can add roughly another 20 to 30 hours. By taking the time to investigate these optional elements, you can uncover new lore, acquire rare items, and discover alternative paths that enrich your understanding of the game’s universe. This is perfect for players who thrive on unraveling every mystery and tackling every enemy that inhabits the haunting land of Lothric.

Replay Value and Additional Modes

Beyond the initial playthrough, the replayability of Dark Souls III offers endless opportunities for those who relish continuous exploration. With multiple endings and various character builds to experiment with, many players find themselves returning to the game, often trying New Game Plus mode, which retains your character’s stats for a more challenging repeat play. Multiplayer elements, including cooperative play and player-versus-player combat, also keep the experience fresh and engaging. For gamers who appreciate sharing their journey or perfecting their strategies, repeated playthroughs can add hundreds of extra hours to your overall playtime.

Trailer

A Quick Look at Dark Souls III

Curious what Dark Souls III is all about? The trailer gives you a great first look at the world, the vibe, and the kind of story you're stepping into.

Dark Souls III Trailer
Videos

Related videos for Dark Souls III

These videos give some tips and pointers on getting started with Dark Souls III

Dark Souls 3 - Before You Buy

gameranx

Is Dark Souls 3 Worth it after Elden Ring?

Backlog Baldie

Dark Souls 3: 10 Things To Know When Starting A New Game

gameranx

Dark Souls 3 Review

IGN
Backbone One

Competing For the TV at Home? No Problem! Here's How You Can Play Dark Souls III on your phone.

You don't have to compete with the family for the TV to play console games anymore. With the Backbone One, your phone becomes your Xbox or PS5 controller, giving you the freedom to pick up and play when life gives you a spare moment. It's how we get most of our playtime in.
Backbone Backbone
Get Yours Today
Screenshots

Screenshots of Dark Souls III

Want to see what Dark Souls III actually looks like in-game? These screenshots will hopefully give you a feel for what the world of Dark Souls III is like.

Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III
Extras

Downloadable Content for Dark Souls III

DLC just means more of a good thing. Here are some for Dark Souls III

Dark Souls III: The Ringed City
Dark Souls III: The Ringed City
Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel
Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel

Dark Souls III: The Ringed City

Unveiling the Mysteries of the Ringed City

In the final downloadable content for Dark Souls III, The Ringed City expands the universe with a compelling narrative and new challenges that await intrepid souls. This sprawling adventure takes players on a journey to an ancient city sealed away from the world, filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered. As you traverse through mysterious ruins and decrepit landscapes, you’ll encounter new enemies that are as daunting as they are thrilling. The storyline intricately weaves with the existing lore, adding depth and a sense of closure to the overarching plot of Dark Souls III. Whether you’re a lore enthusiast or simply love a good story, the narrative elements are designed to captivate and engage.

Enthralling Gameplay and New Challenges

The Ringed City doesn’t just extend the story; it reinvigorates the gameplay with fresh experiences. Featuring an array of new weapons, armor sets, and spells, players are empowered to adapt their tactics against formidable new foes. The boss fights are a highlight, offering elaborate battles that demand strategic thinking without overwhelming those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The level design is as intricate as it is beautiful, encouraging exploration while maintaining a sense of discovery around every corner. For those with limited gaming time, The Ringed City offers a rich, yet manageable experience that can be savored in thoughtful sessions rather than rushed playthroughs.

Immersive Design and Atmospheric Beauty

Visually, The Ringed City is a masterclass in atmospheric design. Each location within the city has been crafted with stunning attention to detail, from the eerie, overgrown ruins to the grand and haunting architecture of the city itself. The sound design further complements the visuals, using ambient sounds and an evocative musical score to draw players into the world. This DLC is perfect for those who treasure immersion, as it creates an environment that feels alive with history and mystery. Even with limited time, players can appreciate the artistic mastery that makes each moment spent in The Ringed City a memorable adventure. Whether you’re stepping into the world of Dark Souls III for the first time or revisiting it, this DLC provides an engaging escape filled with wonder and challenge.

Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel

Embark on a Chilling New Adventure

In the DLC expansion pack, Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel, players are invited to explore a hauntingly beautiful and snow-covered world filled with secrets and dangers. This new chapter of the Dark Souls saga takes you deep into the Painted World of Ariandel, where you must uncover the dark mysteries hidden within its frosty landscapes and harsh environment. As you navigate through intricate ice caves and abandoned villages, the eerie ambiance crafted by detailed graphics and atmospheric sound design promises to pull you into a story of corruption and decay.

Face Formidable Foes

The battles within Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel are crafted to challenge even the most seasoned adventurers. Players will encounter a variety of formidable new enemies, each possessing unique fighting styles and abilities that require you to carefully strategize your combat tactics. Whether you’re facing off against the agile wolves lurking in the woods or the haunting presence of new bosses, every encounter demands your attention and courage. But fear not, as new weapons, armor sets, and spells are introduced to aid you on your journey, adding depth and variety to your gameplay experience.

Uncover Hidden Secrets

Discovery lies at the heart of Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel, rewarding players who explore every nook and cranny of its immersive environment. The expansion is densely packed with intriguing lore that deepens the Dark Souls narrative, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Hidden paths and elusive NPCs offer quests and rewards for those adventurous enough to seek them out. This DLC not only expands the world of Dark Souls III but also enriches it, making it an essential addition for fans eager to dive deeper into the dark and mysterious universe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Dark Souls III?

How do I effectively manage stamina in Dark Souls III?

Managing stamina in Dark Souls III is crucial for survival. Always keep an eye on your stamina bar, as actions like attacking, rolling, and blocking deplete it. To effectively manage it, avoid over-committing to attacks and allow your stamina to recover by briefly stepping back from combat when necessary.

What are the minimum system requirements to run Dark Souls III on PC?

To run Dark Souls III on PC, you’ll need at least an Intel Core i3-2100 or AMD FX-6300 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti or ATI Radeon HD 7950 graphics card. The game also requires DirectX 11 and 25GB of available storage space.

How long does it take to complete the main story in Dark Souls III?

Completing the main story of Dark Souls III typically takes around 30 to 40 hours for most players. However, this can vary based on individual playstyle and experience with the series. Exploring optional areas and tackling additional challenges can significantly extend the playtime.

What multiplayer features are included in Dark Souls III?

Dark Souls III offers a variety of multiplayer features, including cooperative gameplay where players can summon others to assist with difficult areas and bosses. Additionally, the game includes PvP elements, allowing players to invade others’ worlds for competitive battles, as well as asynchronous interactions like leaving messages for other players.

Is Dark Souls III available on multiple platforms, and are there any platform-specific differences?

Dark Souls III is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. While the core gameplay experience is consistent across all platforms, PC players might benefit from higher frame rates and resolution settings if their hardware supports it. Console versions may have more stable online communities due to larger player bases.

It's Never Too Late to Start Playing.

Not What You're Looking For?

Great games dont have an expiration date. Take our quiz and we will find you the perfect game.

Take the Quiz
Related Games

Other Games You Might Enjoy

If you like Dark Souls III, then you may like these ones as well.

Delayed Respawnse

Some of the links on this site are Amazon affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way to help support the site and keep the game recommendations coming. Thanks for your support!

Copyright © 2026 Delayed Respawnse. All Rights Reserved.

Platforms

  • Xbox
  • Playstation
  • Nintendo
  • PC

About

  • About
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Sitemap

Find Your Next Game

  • Take Our Quiz
  • Quiz Results
  • How We Score Games