Two Giants of the Same Genre
Elden Ring and Dark Souls 3 both come from FromSoftware and share the same core DNA: punishing but fair combat, rich lore told through environmental storytelling, and the deeply satisfying feeling of overcoming a boss that seemed impossible. But they are quite different games in scope, structure, and experience. If you're new to the genre — or simply don't know which to tackle first — this comparison will help you decide.
World Design
| Feature | Elden Ring | Dark Souls 3 |
|---|---|---|
| World Structure | Open world | Linear with interconnected areas |
| Exploration | Vast and freeform | Focused and curated |
| Map | Full in-game map | No in-game map |
| Size | Very large | Moderate |
Dark Souls 3's world is tightly crafted and intentional. Every shortcut, ambush, and vista feels deliberately placed. Elden Ring's open world offers freedom but can feel overwhelming for first-timers — you might accidentally wander into an area far above your level.
Difficulty & Accessibility
Elden Ring is arguably more accessible for newcomers despite being the newer game. The open world means if you're stuck on a boss, you can go explore elsewhere, level up, and return stronger. You're rarely truly hard-blocked.
Dark Souls 3 is more linear, so progress bottlenecks are more absolute. However, the combat is arguably more refined and precise, and the game is slightly shorter overall.
Combat Feel
Both games share a stamina-based, methodical combat system, but there are differences:
- Dark Souls 3 feels faster and more aggressive than its predecessors, rewarding skilled play with fluid combos
- Elden Ring introduces on-horseback combat, summonable spirit allies, and a wider variety of build archetypes
Story & Lore
Both games tell their stories obliquely — through item descriptions, NPC dialogue, and environmental details rather than cutscenes. Dark Souls 3 serves as a finale to the Souls trilogy, so players familiar with the series will get more out of its references. Elden Ring features world-building co-written by fantasy author George R.R. Martin, resulting in an exceptionally rich mythological backdrop.
Which Should You Play First?
Here's a simple recommendation:
- If you want a focused, structured introduction to FromSoftware games → start with Dark Souls 3
- If you want more freedom and a forgiving difficulty curve → start with Elden Ring
- If you plan to play both eventually, playing Dark Souls 3 first adds context and makes Elden Ring feel like a grand evolution
Final Thoughts
You genuinely can't go wrong with either game. Both are among the finest action RPGs ever made. Dark Souls 3 teaches you the fundamentals in a controlled environment; Elden Ring expands on them across an unforgettable open world. Play both — in that order — and you'll experience one of gaming's greatest creative arcs.