Collider ranks FromSoftware’s Soulsborne and closely related games by combat, world and level design, bosses, atmosphere, innovation and influence. The article argues that the series remains highly influential because of its demanding gameplay, environmental storytelling and distinctive design, while acknowledging that even its weakest entries have notable strengths.

– ‘Dark Souls II’ (2014) is placed eighth, criticised as comparatively uneven and occasionally laborious despite memorable settings, music and improvements in ‘Scholar of the First Sin’.
– ‘Demon’s Souls’ (2009) ranks seventh: it is praised as the foundation for later games, though its early mechanics and rougher design show its age; the PS5 remake is presented as an accessible entry point for newcomers.