Demon's Souls Review

By Keza MacDonald Published 23 April, 2009

Fighting the impossible.

Version tested: PlayStation 3

Editor's note: Demon's Souls is finally released in Europe this week. Here we present our original import review of the game from last year, which to the best of our knowledge is still completely accurate with respect to the European version.

From Software is a strange and fascinating developer. Mention the name and Armoured Core is what usually springs to mind, or occasionally Otogi, but when it's not making mech games From's output encompasses a vast range of extremes - cutesy co-op platformer Cookies and Cream, Tenchu, card-battler Lost Kingdoms, horror adventure Echo Night, broken, miserablist cult series King's Field. And this, the most interesting PlayStation 3 exclusive I've ever played.

Demon's Souls is a brutal, bleak action combat RPG that pits your lone character against a universe full of violent demons. They range from former human soldiers to agile, double scimitar-wielding skeletons, pouncing flame-creatures, octopus-headed guards, embryonic plague-carrying monstrosities, even Death himself. The game's five worlds - all massive - are split into four different sections, each guarded by a horribly large and hardcore boss monster. Everything in the entire world is designed to kill you, quickly and often without warning.

The only safe place is the Nexus, a haven for tormented souls. It acts as a hub from which you can access the five worlds, or buy and upgrade your character's weapons and abilities to give them a slightly better chance of survival. It is one of the most difficult modern videogames in existence, refusing to make even the slightest concession to your happiness or mental well-being. For this reason, developing a devotion to Demon's Souls has been the gaming equivalent of falling in love with an emotionally stunted, occasionally violent sociopath.

It's not a hack-and-slasher, though Demon's Souls incorporates the best elements of that genre into its accomplished weapons combat. The pace is slower, and you can learn to use magic, miracles, ranged attacks, scavenged items and enchanted equipment to give you a wealth of alternatives to slicing things up with a sword.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 1

This will kill you by cleaving you in half with an axe.

Demon's Souls is deeply tactical, preferring to pit you one-on-one against vicious and high-level enemies that can use the same tactics, weapons and magic as you rather than drowning you in a sea of lesser foes. You slowly build up a large inventory of vastly differing equipment and skills for yourself as you inch your way through the levels, finding treasure, killing demons and using the souls you get from them to buy a tiny bit more health, strength, magic power, carry weight or life-saving equipment.

What you fight with is entirely up to you. Any character can scavenge, buy and use any weapon. Go with a sword and shield and you can parry enemies' attacks with the latter before stabbing them through the heart in slow motion, if your timing's good enough (mistime your parry, and you'll probably die). Choose a dagger and light armour and you can roll and dart around before stabbing demons in the back for a similar, satisfyingly gory critical hit.

Using a bow lets you stalk enemies in first-person from a distant turret. Find a wand, and you can cast magic; find a talisman, you can heal yourself with miracles. The closest comparison is Monster Hunter, but Demon's Souls' combat controls are more precise; the weapons feel realistic rather than comically extreme. Fighting is physical, violent and cathartic, and you find yourself forming genuine attachments to favourite weapons.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 2

This, meanwhile, will kill you by shooting a metal bolt three times your own width through your chest from the sky.

There's unrestricted scope for developing your character in different directions. You can play it as a nimble magic user with an assassin's dagger, or hide behind a heavy shield and two-inch-thick body armour whilst skewering things in the dark with a lance, and you can switch between these two strategies at will by changing your equipment.

That flexibility prevents the game from ever getting stale and equally prevents you from falling into easy habits or closing off interesting options from yourself through your choice of class. You're constantly forced to change your approach, if not by choice then by the sheer variety of aggressive enemies that the game throws at you. No one strategy works against all of them.

When you die in Demon's Souls - and you will die, a lot - you lose your physical body, becoming a soul with half a health bar (although in practice it's more like a three quarters, as there's a ring in the very first world that lets you cling a little closer to life). The only way to get it back is to kill a boss monster.

When you die again you lose all of the demon souls you've collected from your hard graft, and have to fight your way back through the level to your own bloodstain to regain them - at which point you either have to sprint for dear life away from whatever killed you the last time, or face getting unceremoniously dispatched by it once more. Die a third time before you make it back to your bloodstain and those souls are gone forever, which is truly heartbreaking when you have to work so hard for them.

To summarise, you end up playing the vast majority of Demon's Souls as either a dead person or a dead person with no money. Every time you die, you start again at the beginning, with all the enemies you just struggled to overcome back where they were. There is no compromise. There's not even a pause button. You get better, or you get nowhere.

(Oh, and also - after a certain point, other players can invade your game at any point and attempt to assassinate you, just to make life even easier. But more on Demon's Souls' online capabilities later.)

If that sounds unbelievably frustrating, well, yes, it can be. It's harshly punishing. But it's not unfair. Demon's Souls puts you up against impossible odds, after all - you're the only living thing left in the world, apart from the stranded, struggling survivors that you occasionally come across exploring some dark tunnel in the Tower of Latria, or down a forgotten mineshaft in Stonefang Tunnel.

The only thing to do is try again, and again and again, observing the demons' behaviour and the layout of the levels, learning the cruel tricks that the game plays on you to lure you towards death, until, finally, you're capable of winning.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 3

This will kill you by crushing you with that shield and then stepping on your corpse.

Precisely because the odds are so stacked against you, precisely because the game sometimes seems to hate you with every fibre of its being, when you do finally kill the bastard f***-off enormous boss monster that ended you within half a minute the first time you approached it, the resulting heart-in-mouth euphoria is the purest kind of gaming thrill. Demon's Souls is about facing up to the impossible, and winning.

Because dying sends you straight back to where you entered the world from the Nexus you spend a lot of your time working through the same sections to make it back to where you were, especially if you were slaughtered by the boss at the end of that section. But it's not grinding. It's not about slaughtering things mindlessly until you've built your stats up enough to progress, though repetition is a part of it - instead it's training, learning, figuring out new strategies, experimenting with different techniques.

Skill is what determines your strength in Demon's Souls, not numbers. Technique will always make up for thousands of souls spent on attribute points. Every time you die, you learn that little bit more, get that little bit further; it's addictive, masochistically so.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 4

THESE will kill you by darting around behind you and carving you into pieces with two scimitars.

And yet, the game manages to hold the constant threat of death above your head without ever feeling meaningless. In games where you spend a lot of time dying, that fear of death tends to dissipate - death is rarely even an inconvenience in modern videogames, nothing more than the threat of getting sent back two minutes to the last automatic checkpoint - but not here.

Once you get your body back, finally, the very fear of losing it again makes you chicken, reluctant to probe too far into unfamiliar caverns. Demon's Souls can inspire sheer terror, make you fear for your life; you never know what's lurking around the next corner, exactly whom those two glowing red eyes in the dark at the end of the tunnel belong to, but you do know that whatever it is, it will probably hurt you. Badly.

Demon's Souls' foreboding atmosphere reinforces this fear. One of the first things the game asks you to do is turn the brightness down. Its world is comprised of dark, ominous places - a prison tower wracked with the tortured screams of undead captives, an abandoned mineshaft that gradually opens out into a massive underground complex inhabited by a variety of horrible things, a crumbling fort guarded by skeleton warriors.

You spend a lot of time creeping down pitch-black corridors with your shield up, waiting for something to attack you from the darkness. The monster design and animation can be superb; the way some of the demons look, move and sound is enough to send shivers up you. It's a detailed and well-crafted dark fantasy.

Integrated into all of this,there's a unique system of online play, the game's most forward-thinking feature - though like everything in Demon's Souls, it's a double-edged sword. Assuming you have your body, which is an achievement in itself, you can call upon other players to help you, and they can join your game as blue phantoms to fight alongside you.

It's a way to even out the odds a little, or progress if you're completely stuck, though you often find yourself running after more experienced players as they rush through a section of the game they've seen 40 times. Players can also leave helpful messages for each other on the ground (“WATCH OUT FOR THE GIANT FALLING BOULDER”).

The downside? Playing the game online opens you up to invasion from Black Phantoms, other players who force their way into your game in order to assassinate you for your souls. You've no control over when this happens.

The best you can hope for, as an invaded player, is that your opponent isn't smart enough to stalk you, manipulating the level to make things harder for you before appearing at the most unwelcome possible moment to dispatch you, and instead rushes straight up to you in search of a quick kill. Then, at least, you have a chance of outmanoeuvring them in a face-to-face fight instead of panicking that every shadow behind every wall is your would-be assassin, armed to the teeth and with an enchanted arrow notched and aimed at your chest.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 6

This one gives you cake. Death cake.

The prospect of playing as a Black Phantom yourself, of course, is seductive, once you have the ability and skill. But you always run the risk of being defeated. Besides, everything that you do online affects the world around you; defeating boss monsters and invading players shifts the World Tendency of a level towards white, whereas becoming a Black Phantom yourself shifts it towards black.

Black tendency makes a world's monsters more aggressive but increases the rewards for killing them, white tendency does the opposite, and both trigger events in the levels themselves, opening up previously locked doors or dropping in unique NPCs to help or hinder you. The tendency system is so complex that players haven't yet figured out all of its implications. Whichever way you choose to use Demon's Souls' online play, though, there are consequences in your own game.

What should be clear from all this lengthy exposition is that Demon's Souls is a deeply complex character. It incorporates an array of concepts and hidden secrets that can be as bewildering and mysterious after fifty hours as they are at the start. It should, however, also hopefully be clear that it's entirely worth taking the time to get into Demon's Souls, to begin to understand it.

'Demon's Souls' Screenshot 5

This is the Nexus, the only place in the entire game where things aren't trying to kill you.

As you spend longer in its company, your relationship with the game becomes less and less one-sided as you learn to navigate areas that once slaughtered you over and over again with confidence, even ease. You can learn from other players, and - time and time again - from your own mistakes, enabling you to eke more and more entertainment and satisfaction from Demon's Souls the deeper you delve into it.

Demon's Souls is absolutely compelling; dark, detailed, unforgiving, creatively cruel. It gets under your skin and becomes a personal obsession, daring you to probe further into its worlds, fall for more of its traps and overcome more of its impossible challenges; it slaps you in the face with your own incompetence and dares you to overcome it.

It's stoic, uncompromising, difficult to get to know, but also deep, intriguingly disturbed and perversely rewarding. You can learn to love Demon's Souls like few other games in the world. But only if you're prepared to give yourself over to it.

9 / 10

Read the Eurogamer.net scoring policy
Picture of Keza.

About Keza MacDonald

Read more articles from Keza by visiting the Keza MacDonald archive page.

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Comments (336) 1 year ago

Comments threads automatically close after 30 days, but please feel free to continue chatting on the forum!

  • RedSparrows #1 3 years ago

    I wish this was on 360.

  • Octoroc #2 3 years ago

    I would like to play this game.

  • Progguitarist #3 3 years ago

    Wow...really didnt expect this to do well. I have no idea why not though...

  • jonthepymm #4 3 years ago

    Where to buy it from, eh?

  • stepneg #5 3 years ago

    I never saw this coming, whens it out over here? £45 on Play Asia and it's region free, tempting if it's going to be a while.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 11:43

  • jonthepymm #6 3 years ago

    A nice cheap £50 at PlayAsia.com...

  • INTVGene #7 3 years ago

    I loved this game.. my GOTY so far. Brutal, but engrossing, unique and old school. Definitely worth the import and it's ALL in English!

  • zombies #8 3 years ago

    Arggghhhh you cursed 360 heap of rubbish... this looks fantastic!

  • figgis #9 3 years ago

    First time I've ever imported a game.

    I don't regret it.

  • mkreku #10 3 years ago

    Wow, this sounds really interesting! Not like the jRPG I expected it to be at all! Now to convince my PS3-owning cousin to take a look at it too..

  • RedSparrows #11 3 years ago

    Btw, is there any chance of this coming to 360 at some point? Is it a Sony timed exclusive, or just From deciding to go for PS3, or wha?

  • kwesleyb #12 3 years ago

    [link url=http://www.yesasia.com/glo bal/demons-souls-asian-version/1014023935-0-0-0-en/info.html
    ]http://ww w.yesasia.com/global/demons-sou...[/link]

    Free international shipping.

    £45.51

  • Psychotext #13 3 years ago

    Interesting. Bit pricey on the import though.

  • phatb0y #14 3 years ago

    Completely blindsided by this review. I was expecting it to go down like a knackered lift.

    A couple of minor mistakes, eg. you can be revived in co-op, by defeating another player as a black phantom and by using items too (stone of ephemeral eyes).

    A mention that the Korean and Chinese versions are in English (menus, subtitles, the works) and have English voice acting too would seal the deal for a few people.

    Other than that - a fantastic review, and the first time I've been genuinely compelled to comment on the actual review rather than the result.

    Someone else gets it!

  • Atropos #15 3 years ago

    Now THAT doesn't happen often - firstly, a game I've never heard of, and secondly, me hitting the import page before I'm even halfway through the review...

  • DrDamn #16 3 years ago

    Game of this generation for me. It's got caveats that you have to understand in gameplay terms, but it's a sweetly crafted breath of fresh air.

  • DrDamn #17 3 years ago

    Oh http://www.renchi.com will also deliver to the UK.

  • jimboton #18 3 years ago

    I still can't believe there's a 9 at the bottom of the page. Even I wouldn't have gone that far.. and there's no mention of the fact that From had to hurriedly remove shadows from the game in the last minute in order to preserve the framerate. Not even the simplest of dark shapes is cast by any character in the environment, it looks queer and I think it hurts the atmosphere a bit.

    I agree with the bulk of the review, this is one exceptional game. I wish there was more exploration involved, maybe a puzzley side to it and more secrets, but I'm enjoying it inmensely.

    "broken, miserablist cult series King's Field"
    this, however is utterly wrong.

  • neonxaos #19 3 years ago

    Never heard of this, completely surprised here. I'm buying a 45 nm PS3 primarily as a Blu-Ray-player, but now I've got this, Heavy Rain and Uncharted 2 to look forward to! I'm not regretting saving up for a bit.

  • phatb0y #20 3 years ago

    Crofto: You don't have to play it online. You can achieve *everything* in-game in single player, you just go about it a little differently.

    You don't get a gimped experience by just playing it on your own.

    Having said that you'll get a taste for PvP. Probably just after you'd pushed your first victim thousands of feet into a river of lava.

  • koji_m #21 3 years ago

    eum, isn't that 9/10 just a wee bit over the top?

  • asphaltcowboy #22 3 years ago

    lol @ the screenshot captions :D

  • Quint2020 #23 3 years ago

    Shame this is PS3 only, looks right up my street.

  • #24 3 years ago

    Wow...ps3 in good rpg game shocker.

    Nice one, wasnt expecting that.

  • DrDamn #25 3 years ago

    @Crofto
    If it is the Black Phantoms which put you off then you can play offline if you want. However as someone who tends to hate non-consensual PVP I find the Black Phantoms add to the game. Besides they can only trouble you when you have your body - which is not much of the time :)

    @koji_m
    As much as it is ok for a reviewer to give a poor score based on their experience it's fine to give a it a great one where the game ticks your boxes - as long as the text makes it clear what makes the game special to that reviewer. It's not the game for everyone - but that shouldn't stop it getting a 9, because if it does grab you then it's sublime. I'd give it a 10 personally.

  • sneetch #26 3 years ago

    Now this, this looks and sounds good. The lack of shadows (jimboton) sounds odd but it's no deal-breaker.

    The case for me purchasing a PS3 is seriously building. Dammit! ;(

  • Kilted_Moose #27 3 years ago

    It's a great game. I ordered the Asian version, but got the Japanese version through instead a few months ago. The game has a great atmosphere and the bosses are rock hard. Need to get back to it - only at lvl 47. I blogged about it when I fist got it. Well worth picking up, although the 9 did surprise me.

  • senso-ji #28 3 years ago

    This is the PS3's sleeper hit; not many people have heard of it (asia/japan only release so far) but everybody that's played it loves it. From Software have translated a few Armoured Core games to US and Europe regions, hopefully they'll do the same with this.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 12:33

  • thedaveeyres #29 3 years ago

    Ah, souls!

  • pollster #30 3 years ago

    Hmmm, time to dust off my PS3. Finally something worth playing on it

    /scurries off to play-asia

  • Steroyd #31 3 years ago

    Wow...really didnt expect this to do well. I have no idea why not though...

    2 words 'From Software'

    They've released nothing but pap like Enchanted Arms in the past, so I'm really surprised at the positive review, just goes to show what a developer can do despite their past titles and given the right backing...

  • Darren #32 3 years ago

    The 9/10 score for a PS3 game certainly had me interested in the game but the review actually put me off it!

    I don't like the sound of this "dying a lot" and losing everything you've worked for if you die too many times. I think I would get very frustrated by that (I'm not the world's greatest gamer nor the most patient) unless you can save the game status at any time. The bizarre lack of shadows is another minus point for me too. Definitely have no interest in playing it online either and I certainly wouldn't want anyone else joining my game either (can you disable it a la Fable 2?).

    That said, I do enjoy dungeon crawlers if it's anything like Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance. May as well wait to see if there's a demo. I think the high import cost makes this game too much of a risk for me.

  • Coughthulu #33 3 years ago

    @koji_m:

    For a few of us (at least going on the forum thread devoted to it), Demon's Souls looks like it may well be our GOTY.

    It's just utterlying stunning. Nuff said. :)

    @Darren:

    The online bit is actually very useful. The whole message writing helps you enormously in areas you haven't been to, to stop you falling into traps and getting ambushed. That said, there are also some evil people out there that misguide you on purpose... ;)

    I was also dubious about other people joining your game to try and bump you off, but it actually makes it a very tense (and enjoyable) game of cat and mouse. It works really, really well.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 12:46

  • HermitArcader #34 3 years ago

    Post deleted at 09:17:39 22-12-2011

  • bdgr #35 3 years ago

    goddam it, i want this but the release is tbc?!!! how can you torment me with this kind of review but then say its not out yet, but it'll be out sometime later in your lifetime?!!!

    :(

  • gamecubeisbest #36 3 years ago

    This review makes me want to import it.

  • betahoven #37 3 years ago

    Post deleted at 09:36:16 17-12-2011

  • soggybiscuit #38 3 years ago

    Is this a RPG like oblivion (i.e. go anywhere) as i didn't get on well with that? Or is it more Devil May Cry with explore functions and slighly more linear?

    Also, whats the frame rate like?

  • kangarootoo #39 3 years ago

    Interesting. Sounds a bit hardcore for my tastes, but otherwise looks very attractive. Might need to dust off the old skilz :)

  • MrChuckles #40 3 years ago

    This is the 3rd game i want on the PS3... (Others being Valkyria Chronicles and Disgaea 3)

    Another 2 and i'm gonna have to start seriously considering buying one.

  • TafKas #41 3 years ago

    I absolutely frakkin love this game, and that is a great review (minus a couple of things that were missed out). Still its great to see it getting a review and being scored as highly as it has been. To those looking to buy, do so, because unless you dislike games your in for one hell of a ride!

  • crazyhorse174 #42 3 years ago

    Wahey! On the day I found out that my *free* PS3 and mobile phone are arriving soon! Joy!

  • Slabbathepave #43 3 years ago

    I think £30 is an outrageous price for a game so imprting it is a bit of an ask. I have come close in the last few weeks but no matter how hard i try i cant justify those extra dukits. Pal release or bust for me i am afraid. Sadly i cant remember a time i ever wanted to play a game more.

  • phatb0y #44 3 years ago

    If you're in any doubts over the difficulty or harshness then please don't buy it. I can guarantee if you're one of these people who cries the blues if they have to backtrack 5 minutes (or less!) of a level then you will hate this game.

    There is no hand-holding in this game (well, apart from hints left by other players). If you fuck up, the chances are it'll be your fault and you'll pay for your mistakes. Dearly and frequently. It teaches you very early on to *think* before you fight and to pay attention to your surroundings. Its the gaming equivalent of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman.

    Once you get into the combat, you're pulling off that Yojimbo shit with some consistency and you have more weapons than the boot of Charlton Heston's car - you'll love it. Demon's Souls takes a while to click, but when it does you'll be hooked for a long, long time.

    ...And if you're not you probably stand to make a tidy profit on eBay.

    PS - shadowslol

  • BraveArse #45 3 years ago

    Game of this Gen for me - I've played through it twice already and am about to embark on playthrough number 3 after a few week's break. I've said it before - it's an ode to the hardcore... a reminder that difficulty has it's own rewards.

    Good Review :)
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 13:17

  • makeamazing #46 3 years ago

    Does it have trophies that can be got in the UK account...

    Anyone heard any rumours if its going to come out over here? Is it normal for these games to only be available in Japan? The game sounds interesting.

  • Widge #47 3 years ago

    yeah, I've seen people in my list getting trophies. All in English too.

  • UncleLou #48 3 years ago

    First game I'll buy when or if I get a PS3. Sounds absolutely awesome.

  • dirigiblebill #49 3 years ago

    Jesus H Christ. I had no idea this game existed and now I want it so much I'm considering selling a kidney.

    Superb, well-structured and detailed review, Keza - you should show us some love at Kikizo one of these days ;)

  • thedaveeyres #50 3 years ago

    Great! A PS3 game we all want... and the only way I can find to buy it is by spending over 50 fucking quid on ebay. Fucking brilliant. :p

  • Widge #51 3 years ago

    I want it... but part of me is scared of the toughness!

    Spent ages watching a guy on a stream playing it. Absolutely no soundtrack from what I heard, its just environmental noises... the same kind of imposing atmosphere as Ico but certainly more sinister.

  • MisterCraig #52 3 years ago

    ''Then, at least, you have a chance of outmanoeuvring them in a face-to-face fight instead of panicking that every shadow behind every wall is your would-be assassin''

    Keza seems to think that there are in fact shadows.

    And she played this game for over 50 hours!?

    :)
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 14:12

  • Apologie #53 3 years ago

    sounds like a great game... considering the amazing line up of exclusives coming for the PS3 in 2009, this one is a lovely surprise... cant be more satisfied with my PS3.

    PS: Regarding thouse jealous Xbox360 owners... dont be sad boys, there are plenty of PS3's for sale ehehehehehehe ;)

  • dirigiblebill #54 3 years ago

    MisterCraig - I suspect she was being figurative :p

  • Widge #55 3 years ago

    OH FOR CHUFFS SAKE, THERE WAS NO NEED

  • chessboxer #56 3 years ago

    Apologie

    There was no need for the last part of your comment. It was a great thread up until that.

  • guernican #57 3 years ago

    "Demon's Souls is now out in Japan. No plans for a Western release have been announced, but a version with full English translation is available in Hong Kong and Korea."

    Oh. Well, thanks for that.

  • phatb0y #58 3 years ago

    Apologie take it to fucking GameFAQs you bellend.

  • Azazel #59 3 years ago

    But not getting a game because of a lack of shadows is sort of missing the point.

    Well, you know these things are important to some people! Some lunatics hate Guild Wars purely because it has no jump button for example.

  • Furfoot #60 3 years ago

    This is the game that might make me buy a 360.

  • Apologie #61 3 years ago

    why are you guys hating one me??? because im excited about Demon's Souls and all the other great titles coming out for the PS3????

    because i said "PS: Regarding thouse jealous Xbox360 owners... dont be sad boys, there are plenty of PS3's for sale ehehehehehehe ;) "

    its a friendly shit, very healty in my opinion... its not like i ofended anyone by saying that... relax.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 13:45

  • Azazel #62 3 years ago

    With the marvelous 'ignore poster' function I can only see retards by the disturbance they cause in nearby posts, their... shadows if you like! See: shadows can occassionally be undesirable.

    Anyway, please do not aid the retards visibility.

  • Slabbathepave #63 3 years ago

    just curious.. how does the online component work exactly? It all sounds very refreshing but how integral to the completeion of the game is it? are thier trophy rewards? Or is it all just enjoyable/clever fluff?

  • Apologie #64 3 years ago

    Azazel

    "2With the marvelous 'ignore poster' function I can only see retards by the disturbance they cause in nearby posts, their... shadows if you like! See: shadows can occassionally be undesirable."

    another asshole with some kind of superiority complex telling people when they should and shouldnt respond to someone... tipical

  • DrDamn #65 3 years ago

    @Darren
    Just to reiterate what phatb0y said - if it doesn't sound like your thing from the text of the review then it probably isn't. So leave it.

  • Yodzilla #66 3 years ago

    This is by far one of the best games of this generation. It's absolutely fantastic and the Asian (not Japanese) version is already translated fully into English!

  • BraveArse #67 3 years ago

    @slabbathepave - it's not necessary to be online at all really but if you do it's a unique experience. It stays resolutely single player even, bizarrely, in co-op as there is no seperate menu for online play... everything is done via inventory items and the like so that it all fits within the SP world that you inhabit.

    Outside of co-op there are the messages ( mostly helpful but there are some reet bastards out there )and the fleeting glimpses of the ghosts of other players going about their business ( something that can shit you right up in certain levels ). Add to that the Black Phantom PvP stuff ( which is relatively rare as you need to be in full body mode to get invaded ) and you get a distinct feel akin to soloing an MMO ... you're aware of other people playing - you can call on their help and there's an element of threat from them too. It's unique and it's quite brilliant imho.

    edit: I guess you could call it Massively SinglePlayer Online ;)
    Edited by 2 at 23/04/09 @ 14:04

  • Apologie #68 3 years ago

    well, to be honest with ya guys... who gives a shit about Demon's Souls when we have World of Warcraft...

  • phatb0y #69 3 years ago

    Slabbathepave - Online play is pretty seamless. Basically you're given items in your inventory to start it all off. To invite other players into your 'world' you use your blue eye stone by an archstone (entrance/exit, basically) which creates a blue glyph on the floor which other players can click on to join you. To invade another player's world you use your black eye stone and the game finds you an (un)willing victim. Your red eye stone you use for a duel (whoever wins gets all the souls the loser was carrying).

    At no point do you *have* to go online. You won't miss a thing if you play it in offline mode. Granted, some things will be a little harder to accomplish, but it can be done.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 14:03

  • IneptPercy #70 3 years ago

    "Regarding thouse jealous Xbox360 owners... dont be sad boys, there are plenty of PS3's for sale ehehehehehehe "

    This does look a great game and it is shame I can't play it... But then I just think of all the 1080p games on my PC (Must be next gen starts when PC says so) and remember why I haven't bought a PS3 and smile again. Jealous... I think not, happy that great games are coming out on all platforms... I think so.

  • thedaveeyres #71 3 years ago

    Can someone write a script that insta-ignores anyones post with the words, "I have a PS3", or "I don't have a PS3" in them please?

    KTHXBAI

  • MisterCraig #72 3 years ago

    I DON'T HAVE A PS3.

    Fire away.

    Oh yeah , 'disc'. Cheers for info on shadows. If it means anything to anyone, I would still buy this game even though it has missing shadows. I am a great guy, no?
    Edited by 2 at 23/04/09 @ 14:25

  • Zebula77 #73 3 years ago

    Hmm, sounds like something I might enjoy from a gameplay and design perspective, but at the same time I absolutely hate games that are too hard. I don't have all the time in the world for videgames any more and when I do play them, I want to see the story all the way through. Not have to give up cos it's too damn hard. I hope the European version (provided there's gonna be one) has a lower difficulty level to choose from the get go.

  • Triggerhappytel #74 3 years ago

    Excellent score, I'm really looking forward to this.

    I won't import it at the moment as I'm a bit skint, but if a Western release is not forthcoming I shall get on it in time.

  • Darren #75 3 years ago

    @DrDamn - I'm happy to wait for a US/UK demo so there's no risk of me buying a game I don't like.

    Besides it's not the concept that I don't like, it's the fact that it comes across in the review like the kind of frustrating, punishing game I end up shouting and swearing at the TV over and which I ultimately give up on because it's too just too damn hard for me. Ninja Gaiden on the Xbox was like that even though I did actually like what I saw, sadly, only the first two levels of that game (although I did manage to get much further on Ninja Gaiden Black on Ninja Dog mode).

    I play games purely for fun not particularly for the challenge so I prefer easy-ish games. I'm still intrigued by it though so hopefully a demo will be forthcoming. In fact, I'd say a demo is essential because otherwise people like myself won't know what to expect.

  • menage #76 3 years ago

    It would be criminal of Sony to let this one slide. Especially for once they have a winner on their side. Do it yourself Sony, do it!

  • Dr.Haggard #77 3 years ago

    Good read and a well deserved score, it's a superb game. It's kept me hooked for nearly 90 hours now over two months, and I still have no desire to play anything else yet.

  • soggybiscuit #78 3 years ago

    @Ashen-Shugar

    Thanks for the clarification. Not sure whether this is my cup of tea - i'm persistent in geting to an of (what i consider) a hard game (thinking NGS and DMC) but don't know wether this is what i'm looking for.

    If i'm right its linear (to an extent) levels with hard side missons where you get bashed and then try and redeem your souls and try again or skip the side missons and go to the end of the level where you upgrade your powers providing you have enough souls?

    Is the combat any good (thinking NGS or DMC)?

    How about the framerate - 30 or 60?

    Sorry for questions but screen shots don't give any incite to the gameplay or structuring of a level...

  • GAmbrose #79 3 years ago

    Funniest captions for ages.

  • Super_Deformed #80 3 years ago

    nice review, loving this game, you almost have to learn the levels like a shoot-em-up, great stuff.

  • soggybiscuit #81 3 years ago

    @designerheadache

    Nice, cheers - will check it out

  • galerian86 #82 3 years ago

    That was totally unexpected. From the video I watched so far, I thought it was dull and lackluster. I guess you can't judged a game by videos.

  • DrDamn #83 3 years ago

    @Darren
    It does balance the difficulty and pain by being very, very rewarding to play. It also changes the way you play games and forces you to get better. Other games I tend to bungle through, simply because I can. Here you have to get better, you do, and subsequently it's a better experience. Even running through the level again to get back to where you died is a learning experience - honing your skills, and enjoyable.

    Couple of extra points.

    There are normally some balancing factors to the harshness. If you die then next time you get a bit further or find somewhere you missed before and get some new kit - or some soul stones which can be cashed in for soul currency. Key point about the stones is that before you cash them in they count as a carried item - and hence you keep it if you die.

    I think its a huge plus that very little is made of the graphics - which are in fact decent, solid and atmospheric. There is so much to enthuse about in the gameplay that the graphics are a side point. A rarity for the PS3 some might say.

    In a recent Famitsu poll this came out top as the game people were most satisfied with - higher than RE5 - (the 360 as a console was higher than the PS3 too incidentally).

  • Irien #84 3 years ago

    Could someone explain how the Save system works in this game? I don't mind games being tough, provided that you can save regularly. I remember playing King's Field 4 on PS2 and enjoying it, but that was pretty rough if you didn't have the hang of things! I assume you can't save anywhere, but can you control when/where you save at all? Also, can you reload when you mess up and lose all your progress completely?

  • Keza #85 3 years ago

    I feel the urge to pitch in with the other voices saying that if you have any doubts about difficulty, or the amount of time you're willing to put up with a game's punishment in order to get to the good stuff, don't pay £60 for an import copy. It might grab you, but most likely it will just frustrate you. You have to be the kind of gamer that gets off on overcoming a f***-off difficult challenge, rather than getting annoyed by it. Purchasing Demon's Souls is a bit of an undertaking at the moment, both practically and financially, and though I adore this game and would ideally want everyone in the world to try it, right now it's a bit of a risk if you're not absolutely sure you could thrive on the difficulty.

    Thankyou, everyone, for filling in a few of the details that didn't make it into the review - it's quite rare that you get to write about something that you passionately love, and easy to forget to mention things in doing so!

  • Coughthulu #86 3 years ago

    @Slabbathepave:
    The online really falls into two separate bits, messages and phantoms.

    The messages basically allows you to see messages written by other players. They show up as glowing red glyphs where another player has stopped to write one.

    Phantoms are basically players who are either there to help you or kill you. Blue Phantoms can help you co-op a particularly difficult bit if you don't think you can make it through. Players can also use invade your own game as a Black Phantom if they have the item needed to do this, and then hunt you down to kill you (or you kill them).

    But neither of these are absolutely integral to the gameplay, you can single player it all the way if you wanted to without any network. Personally, I find the messages other players leave behind tend to be useful.

  • Dr.Haggard #87 3 years ago

    If i'm right its linear (to an extent) levels with hard side missons

    Nope, there's a hub from which you access the five areas, each having 3 or 4 sections, and you can visit any area at any time. Progress through the areas is linear, each section ending with a boss demon which then opens up the next section and a portal back to the hub. If you're having trouble with a particular section or boss you can go and make some progress in another area instead, then come back when you've levelled a bit or got better gear.

    Levelling up is done at the hub by spending souls. Repairs, upgrades and purchasing (for which the currency is also souls) is done either at the hub or at vendors/blacksmiths you meet out in the world.

    Is the combat any good (thinking NGS or DMC)?

    Nothing like either of the above. This is far more realistic, weighty combat, there's no jumping in the air and bouncing off walls. Think Severance.

  • Super_Deformed #88 3 years ago

    @ Irien, the game is all about messing up and losing your progress or the threat of that happening, the game pretty much auto saves for you, theres no mid level check points really.

  • DrDamn #89 3 years ago

    @Irien
    If you die there is no reload option. You go back to the start of the level and lose just the soul currency you had on you (you keep all your items). If you make it back to where you died without dying again then you get your soul currency back.

    You can turn the game off and on reloading then you start from where you were - mid level for example. But there is no going back to a save file after doing something wrong (unless you cheat).

    @SoggyBiscuit
    Level design is one of the strong points - there is normally a main route through a level but some places to explore and go off on an alternate route, so not strictly linear. The levels feel "crafted" rather than simply constructed if you get what I mean.

  • Darren #90 3 years ago

    @DrDamn - What you told Irien makes the game sound OK and not as harsh or punishing as I thought. I'm still going to wait for a demo though but the 10 minute gameplay video I've just watched on YouTube looks great. Definitely interested in checking it out at some point.

  • Keza #91 3 years ago

    Krelle: How/where did you manage to rent it? Any tips for people looking to give it a go?

  • Irien #92 3 years ago

    Soul currency is essentially unspent levelling points then?

    So, the main penalty for dying is the loss of any xp earned since you last spent it?
    (And even that can be reclaimed more often than not?)

    That sounds pretty fair, or am I missing something.

  • DrDamn #93 3 years ago

    @Irien
    The soul currency can be spent on levelling, new kit from vendors or repairs to your current kit. The more you build up the greater the risk of losing it by not getting back to where you died. So it really isn't so bad. Particularly as there are places which open up which you can farm for soul currency. Losing your progress in the level is the harsher side - or if you had a lot of cash and just got past a tricky bit. You can always back out to the Nexus with your hard earned cash and spend it before taking another run at the level too.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 15:06

  • Irien #94 3 years ago

    I take it levels re-pop everytime you exit to the nexus? Do bosses respawn?

    Ie. if you take out a boss, does it make sense to backtrack to nexus?

    Sorry for all the questions, but this game sounds like it *could* be brilliant, but I don't like to feel like a game is making me waste time (goodness knows I don't have infinite spare time!) so I like to feel like I'm making progress even if that involves dying a lot!

  • DrDamn #95 3 years ago

    @Irien
    The bosses and certain big monsters do not respawn so it's safe to return. After a big boss you always get a new gate in the level to warp back to the nexus and restart the level from that point when you re-enter too.

    There is a lot of playtime here - I'm 60 hours in and still not done on my first playthrough - just bosses to go now though. It's all very enjoyable if it's your cuppa though. I've played through so far with a Thief/Archer type build but already started a Mage alt and also plan a more heavily melee based character too. Forces you to approach the same situations in a different way. Some areas will be much easier but others tougher.

  • phatb0y #96 3 years ago

    @Irien - Bosses don't re-pop but standard mobs do.

    Pro-Tip - DON'T forget to touch the archstone after you kill a boss. Bosses don't drop loot as such. They just drop their soul (the importance of which you'll discover as you progress!), which is stored in the archstone you use to return to the Nexus.

    Personally, I always return to the Nexus after killing a boss. Although you could feasibly carry on through the rest of the level, I always go back to store all the shite I've accumulated and get repairs or boost my stats if I've got enough souls.

  • darc #97 3 years ago

    OMG this sounds awesome.

    (Prays for PS3 price drop...)
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 15:36

  • SpaceMidget75 Verified Senior Software Developer, Minerva Computer Services #98 3 years ago

    I wonder why From decided to make this for the PS3 and Ninja Blade for the 360? Don't worry, I know the answer, but I suspect it was a bad decision by them.

    Writing an average ninja game for a system that already has the definitive ninja franchise on it?? Nutters. Oh well. :)

    Oh, and apologie...you're a cock. Thanks!

  • Apologie #99 3 years ago

    lol some people give too much credit to themselves... i simply dont give a flying fu*** if anyone decides to ignore me or not "i know ill never ignore anyone... but that's just me".

    Ps3 is shaping up to dominate in 2009, and Demon's Souls is another good title to join the "LIST".



  • PlugMonkey #100 3 years ago

    Sounds like a great game. Should the opportunity ever actually present itself for me to buy it, I most certainly will.

    Go on, SCEE! Do me proud!

  • HolyJebus #101 3 years ago

    Great review Keza, you did a very good job of selling the game. Don't think I'd have the time for a game like this anymore but ten years ago I would have lapped it up i'm sure.

    We should have a poll to see who's the biggest cock between Apologie and Farti. They're the only two i've felt the need to ignore. Now if only everyone else did too these threads would be far more enjoyable.

  • soggybiscuit #102 3 years ago

    @DrDamn and Dr.Haggard

    Being both Doctors, do you run confused reviewed game sugery often? I may need to make future appointments!!!!

    Cheers lads! Take it easy...

  • GamesConnoisseur #103 3 years ago

    I died a freaking lots of time in the last chapter of Killzone 2 cos I had the idiocy of playing it on Veteran at first go! Finished it after dying 100 times in that chapter, taking into consideration that audio cues were critical, so that you know when each waves comes inc the flamethrowers from behind.

    Apologies for drifting off the point, but I have no issue of lots of deaths as long as the gameplay is fun and a key part of game. Simply because of this review, I now am going to order the import (Asian) version.

    Looking forward to the game!

  • rogermellie #104 3 years ago

    This looks ace! My interest was piqued after Disc and others were raving about it in the forums.

  • angerisagift #105 3 years ago

    Bought this from a reputable Hong-Kong based Ebay seller for 50 quid, played for 2 weeks, but just didn't have the hours or patience to dedicate to it. A good game, but you really have to persevere and devote a large chunk of your life to it for it to work. I sold it back on Ebay for 67 quid, so made a profit at least!

  • GamerSam #106 3 years ago

    EuroGamer and Keza in particular has earned my respect, true gamers indeed :). Demon's Souls is my favourite PS3 game, and it is a shame that this game has not received all the recognition it deserves.

  • GamerSam #107 3 years ago

    @Nick-JD- yea Famitsu were kinda hard, but they did not rate the game that low really. Considering it received a better score than White Knight Chronicles. Anyway Dengeki gave it a good review, and they are pretty respectable.

  • skoypidia #108 3 years ago

    I don't get that, I saw the video and the game looks really 2nd class, sort of crappy. A clumsy hack & slash really, with bad motion capture and dull camera angles. Has something changed?

  • Zaltan #109 3 years ago

    Ordered it... renchi said they'll dispatch it when they get it in stock. I don't mind waiting because I'm sort of meant to be doing Uni work ATM.

  • Vandit96 #110 3 years ago

    oooooom........no comment

  • Super_Deformed #111 3 years ago

    @ skoypidia, I thought the same from watching the videos, then I played it and like you I was wrong.

  • GamerSam #112 3 years ago

    @skoypidia I would say the motion capture is more realistic and better than in any similar game. This game actually has a physics engine for the weapons, they bounce of walls and objects, you can't use long weapons in tight spaces etc.. Also how you handle them depends on characters stats, strength, stamina, if you hold the weapon with one hand or two etc..

    That is why the game looks so different to anything else, people compare it with games like Ninja Gaiden and Devil May Cry. Those games are good and all, but they completely lack any realism or physics. Demon's Souls is no dummy hack and slash, it is more frantic than you would believe and there really is no other console game that plays like it.

  • cyber_nicco #113 3 years ago

    This sounds really good to me. However, the difficulty could be off-putting. There's a fine line between really challenging, and really annoying.

  • bad09 #114 3 years ago

    Can't say the gameplay vid showed me a 9/10 game TBH but looks can be deceptive, hell I'll take ANYTHING worth playing on PS3! Think I'll wait for a demo and a Euro release tho....

  • shotgun44 #115 3 years ago

    Where's Farticus to ram some sense into us??

  • jeebthegreat #116 3 years ago

    quite possibly the first review i've read the whole way through in a long while...and i don't even own a ps3. can i say i'm jealous? i'll go ahead and say it. i'm jealous. reaaaallly jealous.

  • Burkey123 #117 3 years ago

    I've never heard of this. I've seen the thread in the forums but never went into it.
    Sounds pretty good and everyone here seems very impressed. Please release it over here, I want to try it.

  • TitusCrow #118 3 years ago

    I imported a copy on ebay about 3 weeks ago for 45£ inc P&P im now around 50ish hours into it and weilding a 2h sword with one hand and also a massive tower sheild :) This game is amazing, its so old school and hardcore that its a breath of fresh air in these days of easy no challange games.

    To any who like this kind of loot rpg lvl up medievil type combat game i say import asap you will not regret it. And for god sake dont carry to much souls into new area's I lost 10,000+ when after a boss i foolishly decided to explore just a little further before returning to the nexus. Who would have thought dragons could be dangerous :)

  • patchbox360 #119 3 years ago

    after reading this i just decided to get a ps3 - after 3 years of owning a 360 and it dying on me

  • Scimarad #120 3 years ago

    Definitely one of the best games I've played this generation.

  • dudefella #121 3 years ago

    Damn you Eurogamer, now I've gone and imported it!

  • dominicwhite #122 3 years ago

    Demon's Souls is a great game. No two ways about it. It reminds me of the earliest days of videogames on home computers, where you went into that dungeon full of monsters fully expecting to die horribly, but you went in anyway, because it was exciting to have that looming threat of death dangling over every delicious bit of treasure.

    It's a hard game, but it's perfectly pitched in its difficulty. If you slow down, pay attention and act cautiously, you'll do so much better than someone who just wades in sword swinging.

    And I'm really surprised to see the hate for From Software in this thread. They generally make critic-unfriendly games such as Armored Core (It's too complicated!), Chrome Hounds (The singleplayer in this mostly online game is bad!) and such, but they're not bad, and they generally sell excellently in their home territories where gamers apparently aren't such huge wuses.

    Just to remind people - Demon's Souls sold out repeatedly in Japan AND Hong Kong.

    And one final note: The games voice acting is in English. In all regions. They actually got a genuinely good voice cast (all British or European, from the sounds of it) and gave them a script that isn't half shabby either. The only difference between the Japanese and Hong Kong/Korean versions is that the latter has English subtitles and menus.

  • GamerSam #123 3 years ago

    ". They actually got a genuinely good voice cast (all British or European, from the sounds of it) "

    According to the credits the voices are all recorded by an UK studio, so that explains why it sounds genuine :). I also liked the music in the game, it sets the mood very well even though you only hear it during battles and credits. In a game like this I think it is important not to have electronic sounding music, so I'm happy they used a real orchestra with vocals and chorus (I'm sure most people don't care about such details though :p).
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 21:09

  • JusticeMoses #124 3 years ago

    Yeah, damn Eurogamer, I am going to forward the bill to your offices if my dodgy eBay purchase doesn't turn up! Can't believe how good this review made it sound, can't wait!

  • mr_woo #125 3 years ago

    Buy this game and may your soul be mended.

  • Xuio #126 3 years ago

    It reminds me Severance: Blade of Darkness.

  • Deab #127 3 years ago

    +1 to those that are now importing.. Been following the forum thread for weeks and holding off. Can't wait!

  • MisterCraig #128 3 years ago

    'It reminds me Severance: Blade of Darkness.'

    Bigtime! I loved that game.

    This really is making me think about purchasing a PS3. Based on the enthusiasm in this thread it might be a good idea to port this game overseas.

    Also, LOL at the main character being dead on the front of the box.

    Nice review Keza.
    Edited by 1 at 23/04/09 @ 22:01

  • Dr.Haggard #129 3 years ago

    @Xuio - It's the closest thing to a Severance-alike you'll find.

  • dominicwhite #130 3 years ago

    Personally, it reminds me a lot more of King's Field (which is totally not broken - just ultra-oldschool-hardcore, moreso than even Demon's Souls), and with good reason. When Sony commissioned this game, they envisioned it as a next-gen King's Field update. A spiritual successor.

    It's faster, tighter and more action-oriented than any KF game, but the desolate dark european fantasy world, the oppressive atmosphere, the sense of desolation and loneliness. It's classic King's Field through and through.

  • GamerSam #131 3 years ago

    Wow I thought everyone had forgotten about Severance, it was one of my favorite games on PC :D. As it is a fairly old game most gamers nowadays have never even heard about it. And I agree when it comes to the combat elements, style and brutality, Demon's Souls is pretty much the closest thing to Severance there is.

  • Wis #132 3 years ago

    just "great" a reason to buy a ps3... what has the world comed too :p

  • Rodchenko #133 3 years ago

    Where's Farticus to ram some sense into us??

    Yeah, I was wondering too. I was expecting something along the line of "PoS3 can't render shadowslol" by now. Actually, none of the usual suspects showed so far, which is kind of curious.

    As for DS: seems like a decent game but I am not that hardcore and I don't have enough time for this.
    Well written review, still.

  • butler` #134 3 years ago

    finally a game worth playing on ps3

    i've never imported a game in my life, but being a big rpg/arpg/jrpg fan i wouldn't miss this for the world

  • butler` #135 3 years ago

    this honestly sounds like the nearest thing to diablo2 hardcode mode a console has ever seen

    *genuinely excited*

    anyone know how online works being in the UK an' all?

  • dominicwhite #136 3 years ago

    The online stuff works fine for us importers. No problems at all here. The game uses non-verbal communication anyway (gestures and autotranslated keyword-based messages), so there's no language barrier between players either.

    You'd think the lack of chat would be a problem, but it isn't. Every player knows their role, and they do it.

    Oh - one thing the review doesn't mention. Once you beat the game, it loops straight back to the beginning. You've got all your gear, level and stuff, but the game has switched into Hard mode, and things are terrifying again. Difficulty goes up again after another win, too.

  • butler` #137 3 years ago

    dominicwhite, thanks, and that looping of the game again sounds perfect.

    I didn't really get a feel for the loot / itemisation side of char development in the review, so anything on that would be great.

  • Vandrius #138 3 years ago

    lol, read this review, logged onto play-asia and imported.

    Luckily I live in Australia, so it worked out cheaper than any off the shelf game here anyways.

  • man.the.king #139 3 years ago

    What a thread! Except for one-two console-deriding comments from a couple of users, all comments on-topic. That, in itself, is a breath of fresh air.

    On-topic: I'm a "wuss" gamer as well, to some extent. However, I also hate quitting and if I do pick up this game (if/when it becomes available in the US), I can see myself losing a lot of hours to it :)

  • phatb0y #140 3 years ago

    @designerheadache - Along with...

    'Take a step out' - 50/50 chance of death or loot the first time you see it.

    'I want to go home' - You're probably going to die soon.

    'If only I had more friends' - Its BOSSTIME.

  • ZuluHero #141 3 years ago

    Im up in the air about this. On the one hand it sounds awesome and i keep looking at vids on youtube thinking how great it would be. But there's this one video that i keep watching that lasts for about 20ish minutes - when he finally reaches the boss he gets killed in one hit.

    I think that might drive me a bit spare after a couple of times.

    Does that indicate that this game isn't for me?

  • phatb0y #142 3 years ago

    Maybe. It has its fair share of insta-deaths.

  • dirigiblebill #143 3 years ago

    Farticus:

    As I'll never own a PS3 I'll just have to wait for the 360 port.

  • DrDamn #144 3 years ago

    @Farticus
    If you can stomach having it in the house then when I'm away for 3 weeks at Christmas you can borrow the game and console if you want. It's seriously well up your street. Just so long as your house promises not to break my PS3 drive ;)

  • Maledictus010 #145 3 years ago

    This is frustrating. Sony promised a good year for PS3 and PSP, but apparently not for us silly europeans. It's very sad to hear that all the weird/good stuff hardly ever makes it out of Japan because publishers think we won't enjoy it. Nice to know they're looking out for us... And good luck to Sony with all the franchise, license and sports crap that makes up the general and generic release schedule here.

  • DrDamn #146 3 years ago

    @Maledictus
    I think Sony needs to learn a thing or two about global releases from MS this time round - they tend to have been very good. On the plus side at least all the PS3 stuff is region free so you can import.

  • dominicwhite #147 3 years ago

    Zuluhero: In response to your comments about a player getting to the end of a level and getting one-shotted by a boss, that may well be the tutorial level.

    Yes, I know that sounds insane, but bear with me: You're meant to die there. If you're new, there's a 99% chance of horrible death, which actually progresses the story, as you get pulled into the Nexus (the aformentioned home of lost souls in the review). That's where you learn about the death mechanics of the game.

    There IS a chance of winning that fight, though. You need to be very, very good to do it though, as one mistake is going to take off at least 3/4 of your health. There's a little reward for any player badass enough to win. Of course, there's an even more horrible death to put you into the Nexus afterwards.

  • DrDamn #148 3 years ago

    @dominicwhite
    Yeah I think you are right the Tutorial boss is in some of the vids.

    One other point I think may have been missed is that a lot of the levels have shortcuts you open up as you work your way through the level. So die near the end and you don't necessarily have to fight your way back through the whole level again.

  • OnASteamer #149 3 years ago

    Without having played the game yet, I think the online aspect sounds amazing. The idea of players appearing in a singleplayer game to either help or hinder sounds like a brilliant feature to develop into a fully-blown game. Do you think that the multiplayer aspect is fully exploited in Demon's Souls?

    See SeriousGamePlan for my article about using a similar online model for educational games.

  • DarkBytes #150 3 years ago

    ahh man , cant find any importers that have it in stock or will take up to 30 days , anyone got leads on where I can get a copy sharpish ?

  • Gaol #151 3 years ago

    It's almost impossible atm Darkbytes unless you overpay on ebay. The next batch is due at the end of the month, I'd wait till then.

  • DarkBytes #152 3 years ago

    kk cool , thx for heads up .

    perhaps by that time some peeps might have completed it and want to sell it on

  • black2 #153 3 years ago

    What's the combat system like in this game? Is it more like Oblivion, Devil May Cry, Final Fantasy...? Golden Axe?!

  • Pac #154 3 years ago

    Got this on back order as it sounds too good to miss.

    Now I just have to try and forget about it for the next 4 weeks.

    Kings Field was one of all my all time favouite PS1 games. Despite the fact that the graphics were awful and the game was as hard as a bastard.

    Best strategy in that game was to run past the enemies without enaging in conbat to get all the good items wich then gave you a fighting chance against the grunts.

    Wonder if that works in Demon's Souls

  • DrDamn #155 3 years ago

    @OnASteamer
    Online implementation is a very alternative approach - quite Japanese - and good for it in a lot of respects. No voice comms and not entirely simple to set-up co-op with a friend - though those are design decisions rather than technical limitations. These aspects are interwoven into the story and game world to make sense from that perspective. For example you can only join another player if you are a soul - and your reward for successfully helping is to get your body back. Conversely you can only summon if you already have your physical form yourself. It's not meant to be a game to be played through fully co-op, more to bring in help when needed and help others.

    The glimpses of other players, the messages and the blood pools are genius. They offset the harsh nature of the game and give clues to what you should be doing.

    @Black2
    Combat is real time action oriented and exceptionally good. It incorporates a lot more realistic aspects, such as walls getting in the way of swipes too. It's not the swish, whirl, bang of DMC - more considered and tactical.

  • dominicwhite #156 3 years ago

    Something of note about the multiplayer is that it's done entirely in-character. I've never seen anything like it before. There's no game browsers, no organizational menus and such - you do things entirely within the context of the story.

    For instance, to do PvP, you play singleplayer until you encounter a Black Phantom - an NPC miniboss. You'll find on its body the Black Eye Stone, which is a magical crystal which you can invoke to push through into other parallel worlds (actually mentioned in the game) and attack another player.

    There's no 'PvP menu' - you go into your inventory, and use this magical gem. Simple as that. You can only do this as a phantom yourself, of course.

    Co-op is similar. While in physical form, use the White Eye Stone to write a summoning glyph on the ground. Other phantom players of similar level in the same physical region will see this glyph, and can use it to walk into your game.

    It's seriously clever stuff.

    I just have no idea why SCEE/SCEA haven't even mentioned publishing this in the west. It's already in full english. They wouldn't even have to do localization on it! It's selling out as fast as they can print copies in multiple regions, but they're still completely ignoring it!

    What the hell, Sony. What the hell.

  • Dr.Haggard #157 3 years ago

    Slight correction to dominic's post above, for co-op you use the Blue Eye Stone and you can only place it when you're in soul form. If you're in body form you see those glyphs on the ground and you can invite them into your game to aid you (maximum of two at a time).

    As a blue phantom in another player's world you earn souls (edit: and tendency), but bosses you beat together and events you trigger only affect the host player's game - when you return to your game it's just as you left it.

    In other words you can only advertise yourself as a soul available to aid other players, you can't place a 'help wanted' glyph, so you can only progress your game via co-op if you're alive and you find another player's blue glyph.
    Edited by 1 at 24/04/09 @ 17:57

  • dominicwhite #158 3 years ago

    Ah, oops - haven't played the game in a couple of weeks (reality been demanding most of my time) and it shows.

    I will reiterate, regarding the publishing sitaution: What the hell, Sony?
    Edited by 1 at 24/04/09 @ 20:51

  • GamerSam #159 3 years ago

    ^^ Maybe it is revenge for the low EU sales of Valkyria Chronicles, they were like "you don't like niche RPG's huh?, then no RPG's for you!"

  • phatb0y #160 3 years ago

    Where were JRPGs mentioned?

    Ooooooh ...You were just here to try and show off, I see.

    Man, the world of the commentard is serious business!

  • NonniR #161 3 years ago

    It's funny how my favorite series didn't convince me to buy a PS3. It was a import-only ultra-hardcore unknown dungeon crawler that sold me on buying a Ps3 as well as importing the game.

    I must say that's quite a feat.

  • wonton #162 3 years ago

    "full English translation is available in Hong Kong..."

    Wow, of all places to make an English release. This really made my day.

    /Makes mental note.

  • dominicwhite #163 3 years ago

    The comparisons to Valkyria Chronicles don't even make sense here. The game is already fully voiced in English, and the Chinese and Korean versions both have full english menu/subtitle options. There is nothing Sony needs to do but print and box the game.

    A game - I repeat - which has sold out repeatedly in multiple regions and is sounding like it's one of the most imported games ever.

    It's probably the easiest money a publisher could possibly make. But they're not doing it, because they're apparently pants-on-head retarded.

  • Naboomagnoli #164 3 years ago

    ... and of course they'd need to regionalize it for each language in the EU.

    That said I agree they should definitely release this worldwide (and if everyone else could cancel their pr-order until I get my copy that'd be grand).

  • butler` #165 3 years ago

    Whether it's bureaucracy or otherwise, I'm sure they have their reasons.

  • Ezzekhiel #166 3 years ago

    Quick questions to all the lucky game owners, I was wondering if the game isn't too repetitive after a while. I only watched the gameplay video on EG, and, a part from the bosses, I had the feeling the "trash mob" fights could become redundant.

    That said, I can't wait to get my copy on Wednesday :)

  • Naboomagnoli #167 3 years ago

    Unless I've been elaborately conned by a 1,000+ 99.7% positive Hong Kong seller, I've just picked up a copy for £55. Now to cancel my Renchi order!


    Edit: balls. Was too excited. Won't be sent until May 4th. Ah well, cost the same as the Renchi version and I've not got a date for that.
    Edited by 1 at 27/04/09 @ 18:13

  • stulo0 #168 3 years ago

    @Naboomagnoli

    Mind posting a link to the eBay page?

    I've been looking everywhere for somewhere that will send the game to me withing a reasonable time and is priced appropriately! :D

  • Naboomagnoli #169 3 years ago

    They had two copies but I think the second one has gone. Check your messages though ;)

  • DrDamn #170 3 years ago

    @Ezzekhiel
    There is amazing variety in the mobs and approaches you have to take with them (also dependent on weapons/spells etc). Another of the games big plus points for me. So it doesn't feel repetitive. Plus you are being forced to improve your skills all the time (I don't think you'll be referring to them as 'trash mobs' as they kick your ass) - so each time you encounter a similar mob you are finding new and more effective ways to kill them.

  • Ezzekhiel #171 3 years ago

    thx DrDamn, I'm even more excited now :)

  • rsgangel #172 3 years ago

    Death cake! yum

  • Chupakun #173 3 years ago

    The difficulty sounds like the old school style of gaming where your failures taught you to adapt and study. Sounds powerfully intoxicating to me. Might start saving up for this one.

  • Demiath #174 3 years ago

    I thought this game might be good, in the punishing hardcore King's Field-like way which From is known for. This review was more of a whole-hearted endorsement than I had anticipated, however, so I'm even more interested now...
    Edited by 1 at 28/04/09 @ 21:21

  • come_get_some459 #175 3 years ago

    Did anyone who imported this have to pay customs? I've ordered from Renchi, so it'll no doubt take several million weeks while they get the stock in, but I was just wondering if I'm going to have pay anything else on top of the price already...

    Definitely looking forward to it though, it's been a while since I had my arse handed to me on a platter with my own sense of skill and ability lying skewered in the corner. Masochistic gaming ftw!

  • DrDamn #176 3 years ago

    @come_get_some459
    It will probably depend on how you asked for it to be shipped. Standard shipping tends to have not been caught. If you went for courier then you are more likely to be stung - some people even had a bill from DHL after delivery.

    Standard shipping takes about 6 days from when they say they shipped, DHL a couple of days quicker.

  • come_get_some459 #177 3 years ago

    Oh. Damn. That'll teach me to pay extra for faster shipping then!

    Still, given how much I've spent on this already, a few extra quid is hardly likely to hurt. And it really does sound well worth the price of admission.

  • dominalien #178 3 years ago

    I can't believe I missed this review!

    Sounds right up my alley, I'd have probably bought this already, had it not been on backorder everywhere I looked.

  • moobdahbadeh #179 3 years ago

    so i just checked out some gameplay videos on youtube and i have to say, the screenshots here don't look anything like the actual gameplay lol. reading the article (great btw), i had the impression that the camera sort of stuck to the back of the character ala RE4/5 (because of the screens obviously). finding out otherwise, i was surprisingly disappointed for some reason lol (i thought that the camera angle of the screens had a great feel to it, also less clutter with the interface looked better in my opinion).

    still like the game though, and question for those who have it already, how come the hit detection somehow seems off?sometimes i see a person attack an enemy but he doesnt get hit (and no the enemy didnt block)?or maybe the video was just laggy hahaha

  • Les #180 3 years ago

    Received a mail from yes asia yesterday that it's on its way. That's within 2 weeks after placing the order, not too bad. :)

    /edit: Unfortunately still don't have the game. Went missing in the post twice. Hoping three's the charm...
    Edited by 1 at 10/08/09 @ 16:41

  • jesqwik #181 3 years ago

    Does the online side work fine with the import version in the uk?

  • Gallilee #182 3 years ago

    @jesqwik
    I got my copy from China last week and you get online no problem when you start the game. Bloody brilliant online solution by the way.
    I'm in Sweden but I would be very surprised if it works for me and not for you in the UK.

  • Emortal #183 3 years ago

    Man, I'm so happy I got this game, it's awesome :)
    Thanks eurogamer, wouldn't have found this game without reading this review!

  • Vanmunt #184 3 years ago

    Ordered this on ebay the other week, only 37.00 free postage and only 5 days delivery from HK... what a great game, even my non rpg playing friend has picked this up and is loving it.

  • frazzl #185 3 years ago

    On one hand I'd really like to get something to play on my PS3; on the other hand unfortunately I am not into dungeon crawlers. They usually don't have much of a story and simple hacking and slashing (even if it is of Otogi calibre) doesn't hold my attention for the 40+ hours these games usually take. For those of you who have played it (or are currently playing it), does Demon Souls have much of a story or is combat the focus of the game? I might go and create a bogus HK PSN account and check if they have a demo available when I have the time :p.

  • gazilla #186 3 years ago

    This game is awesome and you should get it now i only payed £39.99 from ebay for the my copy of game of the game. I would easily give this game 9.7 out 10 it is that good.

  • captain_Jerec #187 3 years ago

    This game is great, managed to get a copy from Ebay for £35.

    My third character is level 75 and I'm 37 hours in, think I'm gonna go bad next time.

    Awesome game, my GOTY.

  • iGaboru #188 2 years ago

    I've read so much about this game and watched every vid so many times that I can't wait for my deluxe edition to come... it's the only game that has ever hyped me at this level!

  • ueue #189 2 years ago

    This is never transplanted to 360 though a lot of people who are misunderstanding it are doing the delusion. This is a game that FROM SOFTWARE produced the project of the producer of SCE.
    It is a complete collaboration.

    4Gamer Interview article.

  • mukki #190 2 years ago

    this sounds excellent!
    bloody BRILLIANT online features!! nice ideas in there

    ok will see if I can get cheaper on ebay
    if one gets the Korea version does that means the online 'ghosts' as also from asian players?
    not that hints /blood stains are written in korean because that would not be much help...

  • Dizz #191 2 years ago

    Well been playing this for a while already and ... it's gotta be the best game I've ever played in my life. For me, that honour went to Elite from the '80ies but it has been toppled. Everything just clicks: the atmosphere, the brutal difficulty, the tactics and strategy you need in fights...if you play it like your average action game, you'll get owned.

    The first time your game gets invaded by a phantom is something to cherish and remember. You start out with a skimpy looking guy with a club and you see your character progress to this dude in kick-ass black armour and a huge sword or spear .. and you have to really work for it, but man...you sure feel like a badass. The first time I saw the dragon, I turned around and ran off screaming like a little girl.

    For me, definitely GOTY.
    Edited by 1 at 21/10/09 @ 08:10

  • clockworkzombie #192 2 years ago

    I ordered this from the US yesterday. Now the wait begins.

  • Mr #193 2 years ago

    Nice article.

    Ordering right now.

  • Bangaioh #194 2 years ago

    I dunno why, I keep on getting killed but I can't put it down. Reminds me of Berserk (the manga), I love it to bits!

  • Xarius302 #195 2 years ago

    get onto yesasia.com and order this game!! its absolutely brilliant! well worth it!
    Edited by 1 at 08/12/09 @ 19:36

  • phonicx #196 2 years ago

    For anyone whos thinking about importing Demon's Souls to Europe; I have just recieved my copy and love it so much that I have decided to do a whole series of really detailed articles and videos on the game. They may be helpful or informative to anyone who's interested!

    You can check them out here: LINK

  • Crispo1981 #197 2 years ago

    @jonthepymm - My bro got me this bad boy for Christmas, it's Foo King ace. rock rock hard, but so satisfying when you get going. Feels just like the old skool C64 days before memory cards and passwords etc. where in order to complete a game you had to devote hours and hoursof hardcore effort and focus; all hanging on a tiny thread of patience.

    . . . Anyway my bro got me a USA version of the game from e-bay and it works fine (online n everything fella)

    Go get it!

  • Slipstream #198 2 years ago

    Ahh old comments though xD I suppose they are worth keeping. It is a largely positive aspect of the article too, from what I've been reading here.

    Anyway can't wait to get mine!

  • ZuluHero #199 2 years ago

    Gah - me neither! I hope amazon post mine for friday!

    (wishful thinking I know)

  • oupe #200 2 years ago

    Buy this and be prepared to stare in disbelief at the screen as you die, die, die, die in the first hour. Once you get the hang of it it's sheer brilliance.

  • cianchristopher #201 2 years ago

    It's a great game!

    There's not enough games where you're a medieval knight (in full armour) that's hacking monsters to bits!

    Actually, there are! BUT, there's not enough that have a fantastically deep and rewarding (REAL-TIME, by the way) combat system! That's the best part of this game for me! It's not really an RPG at all, it's a deep third-person combat game!

  • UncleLou #202 2 years ago

    "UncleLou
    23/04/09 @ 13:23
    First game I'll buy when or if I get a PS3. Sounds absolutely awesome."

    Well, I bought Uncharted first, but Demon's Soul the day after. :)

  • foamy #203 2 years ago

    i'm surprised so many people are surprised. where have you been in the last year? one of the best games i've ever got to play.

  • Mr.DNA #204 2 years ago

    I am usually amongst the first to tell those egregious bastards who complain about a score to shut the hell up, especially when they are only niggling over a mark or two, but surely if there is one game which deserves 10 out of frigging 10 then it is Demon's Souls. Surely to God.

    Earlier in the comments section, Keza states that if you are the kind of person who becomes easily frustrated when playing games then perhaps Demon's Souls isn't the game for you. I am precisely the kind of person who cannot stand prolonged games-related frustration, and I generally loathe the repetition of having to do the same sections in games over and over again. I usually just think, "fuck this game", and move onto something else. I am notoriously bad at finishing games, as I get fed up and more often than not just move on.

    However, Demon's Souls is absolutely, categorically not frustrating in the same way that a, say, Ninja Gaiden is frustrating. You never feel as though the game is being cheap- you will die and you will die often, but not because the game is unfairly flinging too many baddies at you, or because the controls are decidedly wonky. You will die and die often because you will make mistakes and those mistakes will be punished. It's one of the truest and purest tests of skill that the medium of interactive entertainment has produced over the past thirty years. Demon's Souls, if anything, becomes easier the more you play and the more you become accustomed to the controls and the layout of each level, and where the enemies happen to be hiding. It is a joy to play each level in Demon's Souls over and over again, learning that little bit more about what you're up against each time you play through a level, and adjusting your tactics accordingly.

    If you haven't played Demon's Souls and you have a PS3, you would be doing yourself a massive disservice if you didn't buy it. Don't let what you've heard about the difficulty put you off. I despise games which frustrate, and I fucking adore Demon's Souls.

  • Miths #205 2 years ago

    @oef!"

    Actually when I bought it a couple of months ago I was surprised by how easy the first several hours were (and I'm saying that as an often rather inept gamer who usually wimps out and opt for the easy difficulty setting in most games, though RPGs do tend to be the exception where I'll man up and boldly go for "medium";).

    After all the reviews and forum posts I had read about this game, I had expected to be pulling my hair out in frustration before I had taken my first few steps, but the difficulty in this game is of an entirely different kind than the one I usually struggle with.
    I didn't get butchered because of bad reflexes, clumsy grasp of the controls, overwhelming attacks from numerous opponents, brutal combos from individual enemies (though some of those do start to crop up in later levels) or just plain AI cheating. What's required to survive here is caution, patience and a good eye for when to strike your enemy and when to put up your shield and block or roll out of harms way.

    Other games got in the way so I never actually got more than around 10-12 hours into Demon's Souls (and died perhaps 6-8 times during those hours, mostly past the five hour mark), but since my game schedule looks like it's finally starting to clear up a bit, I plan on diving in again. Though I'll probably start over with a new character as I remember not being entirely satisfied with the choices I had made for my first one.

    And to newcomers, http://demonssouls.wi kidot.com/ is well worth a visit or several during your early hours with the game, and some of the character and weapon pages arguably even before you start playing, if you like to plan out your character build and weapon choices.
    It also covers some topics I seem to remember not quite understanding just from in-game info alone, such as weapon upgrades.

  • sneetch #206 2 years ago

    @sneetch 23/04/09 @ 12:19
    Now this, this looks and sounds good. The lack of shadows (jimboton) sounds odd but it's no deal-breaker.

    The case for me purchasing a PS3 is seriously building. Dammit! ;(

    Ah my youthful self, all those months ago, bright eyed, hopeful, eager for the future. Just cancelled my order on Amazon.co.uk: I'm not waiting until next week for this I'll buy it on Friday, and the extra tenner-or-so cost be damned! :)

    I should have bought it on import, of course, but the European versions bits and bobs sound damn nice.

  • Syrok #207 2 years ago

    "Here we present our original import review of the game from last year, which to the best of our knowledge is still completely accurate with respect to the European version."

    Except the score is inaccurate. Should be a 10 really.

    :)

  • erp #208 2 years ago

    The game's one of my favourites ever, and it's not too exaggerated to say this review is one of the finest reviews I've ever read too.

    I'd not even heard of the game until reading the original publication of this, for which I'm ever-so grateful. It's so full of such infectious enthusiasm that it made me start thinking about how there're way too many negative words written and read about bad videogames, there's so much time and energy wasted on them.

    It made me wish that all reviews were as good as this one and that all games were as good as Demon's Souls. So here's my crazy idea: stop writing those 3+ page reviews on 5/10 games. Give them a paragraph or two and just advise the reader to avoid. Then concentrate all the energy and the passion on games that actually deserve it.

    Demon's Souls reminded me what I love about gaming, and this review did too.

  • Cappy #209 2 years ago

    The issue with the shadows only applied to the original unpatched Asian version. Shadows were added as part of an update and are present in all later versions of Demon's Souls such as the US and European versions of the game.

  • Flying_Pig #210 2 years ago

    Got this on pre-order REALLY looking forward to it!!

  • mkreku #211 2 years ago

    I actually did import this and gave it to my Halo-loving cousin as a Christmas present. Surprisingly enough he loved it and is probably the game he has spent most time with.. of all his games ever!

  • feistycheese #212 2 years ago

    Ive had the Asian version of this, then I imported the US version.

    Its that good, im getting the European version as well.

  • metalmike25 #213 2 years ago

    Now that Demon's Souls has finally been released in europe there'll be no excuses not to award it game of the year

  • Widge #214 2 years ago

    One of those unique games in time. Like when Ico hit the PS2 all those years back.

  • GreyBeard #215 2 years ago

    Indeed. This game is a 10.

    Not perfect, but a 10/10 nontheless.

  • Tallon4 #216 2 years ago

    Black Phantom Edition coming up.
    Got the USA edition a long time ago, but must buy this version also.
    Game of this gen, for me.

  • darc #217 2 years ago

    "I'm surprised so many people are surprised. where have you been in the last year? one of the best games i've ever got to play."

    I think you'll see that the comments expressing surprise were posted back when this review was originally posted, for the Asian release. By now, yeah, it's widely regarded as an excellent game. Almost wrote "classic", but it's probably too soon for that. :)

  • HokutoNoKen #218 2 years ago

    Demon's Souls EDGE review:

    http://ww w.edge-online.com/magazine/revi... ( 9 / 10 )

    / Ken

  • darc #219 2 years ago

    "It is a joy to play each level in Demon's Souls over and over again, learning that little bit more about what you're up against each time you play through a level, and adjusting your tactics accordingly."

    In this sense, Demon's Souls reminds me of a racing game, where you can race a track again and again perfecting your laps. Although in DS the aim is not necessarily speed, there is that same sense of applying your improving skills to the same content again and again, and never growing bored with it because the process itself is so visceral.

    Agree with the other comment above, that this is less like an RPG and more like a real-time combat simulator. And agree with all of the comments that this is one of the all-time greats.

  • macmurphy #220 2 years ago

    As an Xbox owner this game takes pride of place on my 'reasons to buy a PS3' list. See also Unchartered and Little Big Planet. And Move, but that's another post.

  • twoism #221 2 years ago

    Do want! I'd get this right now but I'd feel guilty for abandoning my huge backlog of games to play through first. This year has been an absolute handful. In a good way.

  • Pac #222 2 years ago

    @android123.

    ...is a complete idiot. Without wanting to sound too biased, this is the best game of this generation (whatever this generation is!).

    You are obviously bitter that this is not on the Xbox 360. Do yourself a favour: Take the blinkers off and buy this game (and a PS3 if necessary).

    Whilst I have some love for Fable, it is not in the same league as this classic.

  • TRUTH #223 2 years ago

    I bought this import about 9 months ago - on the last stage; and been stuck there for 2 months - but it's my fault, not the games as I get careless with defense and strategy. I just hope more game like this are released as everything seems to be dumb-bling-shoot em ups, with more focus on fancy moves and effects rather then skill and strategy...One of the (if not the best!) Rpg, adventure, action titles out on any console - and I'm usually a 360 gamer.

    I will replay this again, as there's plenty of depth, weapons, and secrets I missed.

  • Sonic_D #224 2 years ago

    Ah man, have the Asia version, but shall I buy the Pal version? Such a great game and feel if it doesn't sell here well enough then we won't see the sequel (which I hope is being made) get here any sooner next time!

  • RedSparrows #225 2 years ago

    'However, Demon's Souls is absolutely, categorically not frustrating in the same way that a, say, Ninja Gaiden is frustrating. You never feel as though the game is being cheap-'

    Small matter -- NG generally wasn't. NG2 was. :(

  • sneetch #226 2 years ago

    @Pac

    Please don't feed the troll. Any comments on his idiotic dribbling encourages him. Thank you for your cooperation. ;)

  • Widge #227 2 years ago

    I love android's "instant grey" posts.

  • spatss #228 2 years ago

    Got my copy preordered. Can't wait!

  • makeamazing #229 2 years ago

    My copy has arrived at the store, just need to wait until Friday to get the wife to bring it home :D... I had better like it or there will be trouble ;)

  • JayKwon #230 2 years ago

    So is this difficulty level comparable to Trials in a way? Because I read something as 'every mistake is your own mistake', if so than I'm gonna love this. I hate frustrating games and playing sections over and over, but Trials nailed the difficulty for me in a frustrating but very rewarding way. Therefore the comment of Mr.DNA was very convincing.

    God it sucks sometimes to have only one console. I'm going to work some extra hours, save some money and buy a PS3 with this game. With so many other good exclusives, I can't ignore it any longer now can I? If Demon Souls is in a way comparable to Trials in terms of difficulty than I'm definitely sold.
    Edited by 2 at 23/06/10 @ 18:49

  • JayKwon #231 2 years ago

    So is this difficulty level comparable to Trials in a way? Because I read something as 'every mistake is your own mistake', if so than I'm gonna love this. I hate frustrating games and playing sections over and over, but Trials nailed the difficulty for me in a frustrating but very rewarding way. Therefore the comment of Mr.DNA was very convincing.

    God it sucks sometimes to have only one console. I'm going to work some extra hours, save some money and buy a PS3 with this game. With so many other good exclusives, I can't ignore it any longer now can I? If Demon Souls is in a way comparable to Trials in terms of difficulty than I'm definitely sold.

  • darkmorgado #232 2 years ago

    android, stop trolling.

    DS is far superior to Fable 2 in every conceivable way. It's a proper rpg for people with a brain, unlike Fable 2 which was the most shallow, superficial "RPG" I have ever played.

  • Gaol #233 2 years ago

    I'm always a bit suspicious of cults, and the slavish devotion of Demons Souls fans makes wonder if this game really is all that. I'll never get a chance to test it though, having a young family makes stuff like this a no go area.

  • makeamazing #234 2 years ago

    Goal, i am many other gamers on here have families but we all seem to be able to do it, its about timing... what is wrong with playing when the kids have gone to bed...

  • flaming.carrot #235 2 years ago

    @Gaol

    I sceptically picked up the American version a few months ago on the back of the player hype, and can confirm it does live up to it. Truly superb game.

  • Trafford #236 2 years ago

    I want this game,but it won't work in my gamesconsole.
    Might have to get a new one.

  • mowgli #237 2 years ago

    A 9 for one of the best games ever made. Fair enough.

  • JahB #238 2 years ago

    This is the best review I've ever read. Accurate, spoiler free and the score is bang on the money

  • Shadzter #239 2 years ago

    It took about 14 months for this game to get released over here? (O_O) I never did get around to importing this game so I may just pick it up when I have some spare cash now it's being released here.

  • darc #240 2 years ago

    @JayKwon, I think you can compare the difficulty in some ways, and not others. Obviously, gameplay is apples to oranges. But they are comparable in that they both have perfect, responsive control systems, where you feel really connected to your own successes and failures. Demon's Souls may be more likely frustrate less patient players because it punishes you much more that something like Trials. Whereas Trials is "Push a Button, Try Again", DS will more likely push you back to where you've got to work for 20 or 30 minutes to get back to your point of failure. And there's a lot more mystery in Demon's Souls, which can also be hard on a player. But, if you keep the right mind set, that 20 or 30 minutes is as enjoyable the second time (or the hundredth time), and the mystery is compelling in itself, so it's all good.

  • darc #241 2 years ago

    @Gaol, I'm guessing you play *something*, since you're still reading Eurogamer. Don't confuse DS with an all-consuming MMORPG just on account of its multiplayer elements. It's definitely a play as long as you like and then turn it off sort of game.

  • Tallon4 #242 2 years ago

    Android: you still own a ps2?
    Jeezzz

    edit: you misunderstood my humour I guess. Just trying to say that Android is a moron
    Edited by 1 at 26/06/10 @ 11:43

  • Stop-gap #243 2 years ago

    Nothing wrong with a PS2, tons of quality games for cheap

  • PlugMonkey #244 2 years ago

    It's definitely a play as long as you like and then turn it off sort of game.

    @ darc and Goal: It sort of is and it isn't. You can switch it off pretty much anywhere, and when you turn it back on you'll be exactly back where you left it, so you can play it in short sessions. BUT if you get killed with souls you need to go back for them before you quit.

    That said, the lack of a pause function really could be a bit awkward with small kids.

    "Dad...can you...?"
    "Notnowfightingmonsterscan'tpause"

    @JayKwon: This really is the epitome of "harsh, but fair". I've never really found myself endlessly replaying sections. You get a bit further each time, and the bits that used to kick your arse soon become a walk in the park. It's incredibly satisfying.

    But hard.

    But fair.

    Honestly, if this review sounds like your sort of thing, it would be worth buying a PS3 for. This review sold it to me, and I absolutely love it. This is, without a doubt, the most perfect review EG have ever published.

    Edit: -1 karma for answering a couple of questions? Seriously?
    Edited by 1 at 23/06/10 @ 23:19

  • GreyBeard #245 2 years ago

    The funny thing about Demon's Souls is that although its genuinely challenging it rarely imposes itself on the player - by that I mean if you aren't actually in a fight you can pretty much stand around in complete safety. You quickly realize that each world is basically a gauntlet of hazards between your start point and a final boss encounter, so once you've cleared an area or are sure you're out of aggro range from patrolling enemies you're in no danger.

    Obviously if you're online in human form you've always got to be on your guard in case of invasion, but staying in Soul form is a valid alternative if you're concerned about needing to set down the controller to take care of something vital.

    The beauty of the game is that there is no pause button for anyone, so its up to you to set a pace that you can handle.

  • Blackstar7 #246 2 years ago

    Great review, mines already on the way apparently so here's hoping it shows up tomorrow if not friday. A warning to all you "I'll get it later" people....be careful. Im willing to bet that like the US edition, these will have a very limited run, and once they sell out (if they do that is) be prepared to see copies going for £100+ on the bay like they were a few months ago.

  • Atropos #247 2 years ago

    Wow. I just re-read all the comments on a review I had already read many times, a review of a game I imported on the strength of said review, then finished and blabbed about incessantly. That should say something about my love for this game. I NEVER replay games on the harder setting (you quickly stop being that completist when you work with games), but I am doing so for Demon's Souls. I'm also buying the PAL version just to have it on my shelf .

    I made a friend play it for half an hour, and that half hour turned into three hours, after which he had finished off the first boss and got halfway through the next level. He didn't die a single time, simply because since he was so aware of the sheer hardness of the game, he instinctively played the way you should (carefully, shield up, always aware and pissing-yer-pants scared) rather than the usual hack'n'slash way (running at foes Kratos-stylee, mashing all the buttons). So if you're worried about the difficulty level, know that just by having read this review and these comments, you'll likely do well...

    Just buy the game. Now.

  • patchbox360 #248 2 years ago

    really want to like this game but my patience level sucks

  • Gaol #249 2 years ago

    @darc et al.

    The lack of a pause function, and also the online dangers, play a part in putting me off. But it's the hardcore nature, and real punishments for failure, that play the biggest part. Playing late at night is an option, but I'm generally that exhausted I need a full bottle of lucozade just to get through a level of Ratchet & Clank - so the idea of retreading levels after a death is a bit daunting.

    I've toyed with the idea of buying this several times but I reckon it's gonna make me feel very old - to think just a few years ago I'd happily go through the torture of Ninja Gaiden for hours at a time!

  • Markitron #250 2 years ago

    EG were on crack when they gave fable 2 10/10. Im no fanboy and I usually respect EG scores but seriously, the combat was boring and the ending was just abysmal. I know some people are into its sandbox nature but an RPG needs to put its narrative first, Fallout 3 got it just right.

    Back on topic im looking forward to losing some time to this game.

  • spookyzombie #251 2 years ago

    I've been playing this tonight and I'm finding it really, really hard. Controller breakingly hard. Anyone got any tips for a good character class for someone who's struggling?

  • rommy667 #252 2 years ago

    Em......where is the x360 version?

  • UncleLou #253 2 years ago

    Sony funded the development and published it in Japan, Atlus just bought the publishing rights. In other words: it's an exclusive, and there won't be a 360 version.

  • UncleLou #254 2 years ago

    I've been playing this tonight and I'm finding it really, really hard. Controller breakingly hard. Anyone got any tips for a good character class for someone who's struggling?

    Bear in mind that while the initial stats and equipment are different, there are no "classes" as such in the game. Knights, Royals and Warriors are probably easier to start with than the rest due to higher initial stats/better equipment, but then I've always been the kind of player who likes to hide behind several inches of steel in RPGs. :)

    Best tip is to take your time. Be patient, be cautious, don't rush it. Keep your shield up. And a (mild) spoiler: There's an important item that will make things easier in the tower left of the big gate right at the beginning of the game. You can see the item through the grille of the tower's door, but can't open the door from down there. To get it, you need to fight your way up to the first knight with blue eyes. Once you've killed him, you can access the tower behind him from the top and fight your way down to pick up the item.

  • TheJuriel #255 2 years ago

    Yeah, this is the rare PS3-exclusive title that I damn want.

  • Goodfella #256 2 years ago

    As UncleLou says there aren't really any classes, any character can be any class given the soul levels are placed accordingly.

    Your best bet for a first time player is to go Royal, you have a magic attack from the off that is pretty powerful and also you start with the MP regen ring which is handy. Make sure to get (this applies to any class) the thief ring early on in area 1-1, as wearing it makes detection of you a bit harder for enemies.
    Edited by 1 at 24/06/10 @ 07:44

  • Miths #257 2 years ago

    @Gaol

    In the 10-12 hours I've put into the game I've never once been killed by another player, and by that I mean no one has ever tried.
    It's been a couple of months since the last time I played (as mentioned in my last post, a string of other games got me sidetracked for a while - I'm planning on getting back in), so I can't remember the specifics about how the player invasion and black soul thing works, but I probably spent around 70-80% of the time playing in soul form myself, which may have been why I couldn't be killed by other players.

    The unique multiplayer aspect of the game actually helped me on a ton of occasions. The floors in most areas have notes from other players written on them, many of them genuinely helpful, warning about upcoming dangers (and some others instead leading you into a trap :)).
    And clicking on bloodstains help showing what other players did wrong, just as being able to see ghosts of other players in real time adds a sense of life (or death :p) to the game that you don't get with normal singleplayer dungeon crawls, but also extremely different from what you get with regular multiplayer games or MMOs.

  • Scimarad #258 2 years ago

    I'd totally forgotten they'd given Fable 2 10/10 until I read it on these comments. That game is the very definition of "yeah, it's alright but nothing special" - I must go back and see why the hell they considered worthy of top marks but DS isn't...

  • Fletche #259 2 years ago

    Had this for a while but I did give up but only because I really didn’t have the time to give the game the full attention it needed. It is a depressing game, but only because the atmosphere is spot on, you truly feel isolated, alone and hopeless in a decaying world. It is bone-crushingly hard but the combat system is spot on, encounters with enemies are perfectly paced and whilst you will die a lot, throw controllers and swear like a docker, when you do finally get passed an area you have tried multiple times, it is a feeling you rarely get in games. Even when you do die, you feel it was your fault, it never feels unfair because you need to learn, something more games should force you to do.

    If only one PS3 exclusive deserves a 10 this is it, a majestic game that not everyone will “get” but for those that do, they will have one of the best gaming experiences so far in their lives.

  • darkmorgado #260 2 years ago

    Having bought it on import last year, is there any difference at all between those versions and the PAL release (other than the new servers for online play)? I'm tempted to pick it up again for the soundtrack and walkthrough but not sure.

    And now it's released in all territories and has become a proven hit, hopefully we will see a sequel announced soon.

  • muscleblade #261 2 years ago

    "Definitely have no interest in playing it online either and I certainly wouldn't want anyone else joining my game either"

    Why? I dont get it.

  • UncleLou #262 2 years ago

    Wouldn't consider playing this offline. Absolutely no reason for this. It is so cleverly integrated, and so subtle, that other players basically become part of your singleplayer game. You don't need to (or basically can't) communicate or anything, so there's nothing to fear even if you don't like that social aspect of mp games.

  • Zebula77 #263 2 years ago

    @muscleblade:...I certainly do. I like my single player games..single. :p Don't want anyone butting it. That'd piss me off to no end.

    Miiiiight get this, but if I do, I'll definitely wait. I've got UFC 2010, Red Dead and Split/Second to play at the mo, and DS seems like a game you really have to invest time in.
    Edited by 1 at 24/06/10 @ 08:59

  • mingster #264 2 years ago

    Although i imported and completed the Asian version i'm tempted to rebuy this EU version just to invade your games.

  • UncleLou #265 2 years ago

    @muscleblade:...I certainly do. I like my single player games..single. :p Don't want anyone butting it. That'd piss me off to no end.

    You'll also deprive yourself of the hint system. That'll do much more damage than other players invading your game ever could. :)

  • Pac #266 2 years ago

    @mingster

    Great idea. I completed it too but never understood exactly how players were chosen to connect to your game. I think you can only invade/be invaded by someone within 10 levels of your character. Can anyone confirm?

    Is there any way you can change the server you are connected to from Asian to European? Otherwise I will have to buy it again :(

  • darkmorgado #267 2 years ago

    I know this game started out on the ps2

    No it didn't.

    does it have to resemble a ps2 game graphically as well?

    It's won awards for it's graphics. The game is gorgeous.

    And what's up with the music in this game? it's appalling compared to the superb danny elfman'esque fable 2.

    Please stop evangelising Fable 2. It's embarassing. Crap story, crap characters, too short, no challenge, no depth.

    EDIT: android, your pathetic trolling attempts and negging every post that points out how moronic you are is really just a tad immature. Haven't you got anything better to do?
    Edited by 1 at 24/06/10 @ 09:44

  • darkmorgado #268 2 years ago

    Is there any way you can change the server you are connected to from Asian to European?

    I don't think so, though it would be helpful. I have a US copy of the game, so at least I can read all the hints that people have left behind though :-)

  • systems #269 2 years ago

    I loved it so much I've bought it twice (Hong Kong import on release day, UK version on release day).

    @darkmorgado - he's almost right when he says it began on PS2. The same team made the "King's Field" games on PS2 and rather than make King's Field V they decided on a fresh break for the PS3 and started again (but kept the King's Field terminology and items).

  • Pac #270 2 years ago

    @EarlBassett

    Ho ho. Perhaps I was one of those "poor people" you refer to.

    I would not call it an elite group exactly. More like people who would rather play a game a year earlier than its release date in Europe.

    Have you seen the date of the article at the top of the page?

  • Pac #271 2 years ago

    @systems

    Kings Field actually came out on the PS1 back in 1996! I still have a copy.

    I thought it was fantastic at the time. Especially the giant Squid.

    Just make sure you follow the guidelines on the box and "Play it with the lights on" :)

  • oupe #272 2 years ago

    @EarlBasset

    You must be the definition of anti-gamer. If someone imports something a great game (or like me just buys it 2nd locally) why do you call him/her a poor you?

    And everybody: stop comparing this with Fable 2, it makes no sense at all.

  • apoc_reg #273 2 years ago

    Sooooo looking forward/fearing this game

    have preordered through play and its on the way but i really only get a couple of hours at a time to play games at the minute so the thought of getting NOWHERE in that valuable gaming time is rather concerning me!!

    Oh how growing older sucks!! :-)

  • darkmorgado #274 2 years ago

    @oef

    Don't worry, EarlBasset is a long-standing troll that likes to think he is superior to everyone else on here, including the site itself. He even sent me a PM a while back saying it was basically his "duty" to slag off the staff and the site and that if he didn't, it would collapse. Talk about ego.

  • darkmorgado #275 2 years ago

    By the way, if you guys want an easy-ish start to the game, choose the Royal class. You only start at soul level 1, but you get the best equipment and right from the start you have access to a spell that will 1-hit kill most of the enemies in the first level.

  • darkmorgado #276 2 years ago



    Subject: Demon Souls
    From: EarlBassett
    Date: March 16, 2010, 12:08 pm
    To: darkmorgado

  • darkmorgado #277 2 years ago

    The only idiot here is you mate, constantly slagging off the site and everyone who contributes to it, slagging off the users, and then actually trying to defend your actions. Then denying sending private messages to people who tell you on the the forum that your behaviour is pathetic.

  • mingster #278 2 years ago

    EarlBassett you are a complete knob jockey and everyone knows it. i've had you on ignore for nearlly a year. As most people do.

  • Hypercube #279 2 years ago

    I've got to say, this is really tempting me to get a PS3. I've held off for a while, as having 2 consoles just seems so... bourgois. But this! This wants me to play it!

  • darkmorgado #280 2 years ago

    @Hypercube

    Get it, it really is worth it. I got the PS3 Slim just to play Demon's Souls after selling my original fat model. After years of being nannied by developers seemingly scared to make their game challenging, it's a revelation.

    Btw, the review doesn't mention that there is a New Game+, which stacks up to 8 times (Until you reach New Game++++++++), with the difficulty growing with each subsequent playthrough.

  • sonicyoda #281 2 years ago

    I have a very vague interest in RPGs but the reaction to this game is so overwhelming I've decided to go for it. I do hope I won't regret it. Either way I get a nice artbook and soundtrack so it's a win/win ;)

  • makeamazing #282 2 years ago

    @sonicyoda yeah i am the same mate... but i am looking forward to playing a different type of game for once, and as there isnt any major games coming out till August, its potentially a good title to stick my teeth into (I do have lots of other games to play but i just cant be bothered at the moment).

  • Retro_ #283 2 years ago

    Great great game, Looks great, sounds great, atmospheric as hell and easily worth a 9 and may even be a 10. I have owned the Asian version, own the US Delux and now EU Black Phanton edition, why, because It's a work of bloody art, thats why. Do I feel smug about 'discovering' this game..... Nope, I posted it was great, I didn't keep it to myself.

    Shame the Moderators can't remove the few idiots on this site but I guess thats what the Ignore Poster button is for.

  • UncleLou #284 2 years ago

    Just feel sorry for all the poor people who jumped on the bandwagon and imported it, but still claimed they 'discovered' it and felt all special in the own little elite club.

    Now everyone can own it so you are not special any more.
    Poor you

    Really? I am extremely thankful for the word of mouth effect the early importers took care of. Would surely have missed it without, especially as they might have played a role for the PAL release.

    But if you prefer the latest official PR bullshit hype, knock yourself out.
    Edited by 1 at 24/06/10 @ 13:18

  • vizzini #285 2 years ago

    I'm really intrigued by this game, has anyone played Demon's Souls and played Codemaster's Severance Blade of Darkness? which I really enjoyed.

    [link url=http:// www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_severance
    ]http://ww w.eurogamer.net/articles/r_seve...[/link]

    If so, are they similar styled games?

    The video footage I saw from Demon's souls looked like some animations (of controlling a knight) were very similar to Severance; but Demon's souls seems in a larger more detailed world with an interesting online system.

    If this is a similar type of game as Severance; but better, I'll definitely pick this game up sometime soon.
    Edited by 1 at 24/06/10 @ 14:06

  • Widge #286 2 years ago

    When this came out originally, I did see both games getting a mention in the same breath. Could be worth a punt.

  • UncleLou #287 2 years ago

    @vizzini It's definitely similar to Severance. In fact, the combat system is probably the closest thing to Severance since, well, Severance. :)

    That said, Demon's Souls doesn't have special attacks which you'll learn as skills - rather, the melee battle system is at your disposal from the first second on - but it's similarly tactical., has a stamina bar, weapons feel differently, etc.

    Mind, the rest of the RPG/Gameplay mechanics is quite different.

  • Bangaioh #288 2 years ago

    I did more than give myself over, I got layed by this game!

  • vizzini #289 2 years ago

    @Widge & UncleLou
    Thanks for the responses.

    Looks like Demon's souls is getting added to my wanted list.

  • BraveArse #290 2 years ago

    It's astonishing really to see how popular this has been since it got released. I got the HK import in March last year and it's mental to see the Demon's souls thread STILL near the top of the PS3 forum. Hopefully this has made at least some developers rethink what gamers might want out of a game. Even if it doesn't at least we know that FROM Software are on the case. :)

  • SpaceMonkey77 #291 2 years ago

    A well deserved review score, and no mistake. I'd love port onto my 360, but failing that I'll bag a PS3. All PS3 owners should have this in their games collection.

    I also hope From Software will quit making those awful Armored Core games and focus on a Demon's Souls sequel. Play their cards right, and From should be challenging the rpg kngs that are Square. Hell, they already are, and after Square's meh FFXIII, From deserve more praise.

  • UncleLou #292 2 years ago

    @ UncleLou

    You didn't understand my post at all

    You''re wrong, I understood it perfectly fine.

  • darc #293 2 years ago

    "I need a full bottle of lucozade just to get through a level of Ratchet & Clank - so the idea of retreading levels after a death is a bit daunting."

    Ha ha OK, cheers to that. And nothing wrong with Ratchet and Clank, either!

    "I've toyed with the idea of buying this several times but I reckon it's gonna make me feel very old - to think just a few years ago I'd happily go through the torture of Ninja Gaiden for hours at a time!"

    For what it's worth, I'm probably a lot older, and I've never had the nerves for Ninja Gaiden. (I tried, briefly; it was all a blur to me.)

    "I've been playing this tonight and I'm finding it really, really hard. Controller breakingly hard. Anyone got any tips for a good character class for someone who's struggling?"

    I've read that you should avoid the classes that appear the obvious choice for beginners (eg. the well-rounded ones) because you really want to be able to spike a key characteristic or two as fast as you can. I made that mistake with my own character, but persevered. If I were going to start over, I'd pick which ever class had the highest endurance, personally.

    But my bigger advice is this: don't expect to start in one world and then fight tooth and nail through it before moving on to the next. You will find that each world is good for harvesting different things, e.g. souls in one, specific items in another... So dig into all of them in parallel, going deeper into each as you get more powerful/ confident. That should change the whole game for you.

  • MeBrains #294 2 years ago

    i rarely pay full price for games - i have been interested in the industry for too many years and about a decade ago I felt that most games were more of the same. I stopped writing about them as well at that time, since I got too black and white about it. anyhows...

    I was under the impression that the next full-priced game I'd buy was going to be The Last Guardian, but the reviews, as well as your combined, genuine comments (not talking about Android for example) will make me buy this tomorrow. I do not believe it really is a game for me (or my family), but innovation derserves support.

  • darc #295 2 years ago

    Random neg attack? Someone's up to no good. Phantom?

  • icelt #296 2 years ago

    Couple of excellent resources for the new players:
    [link url=http://demonssouls.wi kidot.com/
    ]http://demonssouls.wi kidot.com/
    [/link]
    [link url=ht tp://www.gamefaqs.com/boards/954345-demons-souls
    ]http://ww w.gamefaqs.com/boards/954345-de...[/link]

    And for how to make a good PvP (or PvE really) character build:
    [link url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/ps3/954345-demons-souls/faqs/5 9592
    ]http://ww w.gamefaqs.com/ps3/954345-demon...[/link]

    You new players are in for quite a treat ;)

  • darkmorgado #297 2 years ago

    Random neg attack? Someone's up to no good. Phantom?

    It's a combination of Anroid trolling and EarlBassett feeling butthurt.

  • MeBrains #298 2 years ago

    oh... and quite why this scores 9 and a game like Fable 2 scores perfect seems to be beyond me. As will it ever; I will never take the opportunity to play the latter... unlike the first in the series, which I played and liked, but did not rave about. I raved about Ico and SoTC and Okami though; the last in my full-priced purchases.

  • paultendo #299 2 years ago

    @EarlBassett

    You sir, are an idiot. Without the early importers, and the word-of-mouth, chances are we wouldn't have local access to this game. We should be thankful that they spread the word, built up hype over here which eventually led to getting the game released.

    So yeah... thanks early importers, if I had more sense maybe I would've been part of that 'special club' of early importers but thanks for helping to get the game an EU release.

  • L1nc3 #300 2 years ago

    Been following DS for quite some time now and it has been shipped today. Had it in pre-order in ebay, being my first full-price ps3 game. Even Redemption got the auction treatment, 'cos despite all the appraisal it has gotten I know it'll feel like gta. DS just stuck with me ever since i read the import reviews. It feels different, brutal, oppressive and overwhelming with an atmosphere that really sucks you in.
    On a side note, don't really see myself playing DS with online off.
    Edited by 2 at 25/06/10 @ 00:34

  • spookyzombie #301 2 years ago

    @ UncleLou and Goodfella - Tried again as a Royal and it's much better. Cheers.

  • HoverDonkey #302 2 years ago

    Well, this review and everyone's comments here have made me do two things:

    1) Buy the game immediately - can't wait for it to plop onto my doormat!

    2) Register here at EG and say thanks for the reasoned, mature comments.

    Cheers!

  • icelt #303 2 years ago

    Providing useful reference and support links is voted down? Weird.

  • MatMan562 #304 2 years ago

    I am very intrigued by this game but was wondering a couple things. How frustrating is it? I broke my only PS3 controller last night after slamming it on the ground due to frustration from Dante's Inferno, which means I will have to fork out for another controller as well as this if I choose to get it. Also when another player (Black phantom I believe) kills you, you do keep all your equipment, right? I dont like the idea of randomly being killed by a guy who then steals my favourite weapon. Help would be much appreciated

  • UncleLou #305 2 years ago

    @Mat: You never lose any equipment, neither when you die from mobs, nor from other players. You do lose souls you have collected, but that's nothing major. Well, it can be, but they're not "items". :)

    As for the frustration: I don't know, hard to say. DS can be frustrating, but in a good way, so to speak. I usually don't like frustrating boss battles, bad checkpoints and whatnot at all, but I never minded dying and replaying sections in DS. And I died a lot. :)

  • MatMan562 #306 2 years ago

    @UncleLou thanks a lot for your response, I'm glad to hear about not losing equipment. As for frustration I think I will risk it. Now the trouble is just finding some money to get a new controller and this game, Transformers and Singularity :(

    Side note: Does anyone know of anywhere I could find a cheap controller?

  • PlugMonkey #307 2 years ago

    @ icelt: That DS wiki is an excellent resource, but I would implore new players not to even look at it until they've played the game through on their own. This game would have been utterly ruined if I'd known what was round the next corner before I turned it.

  • Pac #308 2 years ago

    @PlugMonkey

    Guides were essential for the Asia version as there was no decent explanation to weapon upgrading (a system which is a bit on the unwieldy side in my opinion) however with the European release I presume this will all be in the instruction manual. So I would steer away from guides until you are stuck.

  • PlugMonkey #309 2 years ago

    @ Pac
    They weren't essential, as I have the Asian version, and I did fine without looking at one and just a bit of experimenting. It might have helped, I suppose, but I'm glad I did something completely non-optimal but entirely self-discovered and personal on my first run through.

    I'm glad I didn't even look up the 'best' class to start with.

  • darkmorgado #310 2 years ago

    I've got the US import version (just the game not the extras)...

    Is the guide and the soundtrack worth buying it again over here?

    I am tempted to pick it up again, if only to play on the EU servers. If I come across another message in the game saying "I'm having trouble! Please rate this comment!" on the US servers I think I may scream.

  • PlugMonkey #311 2 years ago

    "This is harsh! Evaluate me!"

  • SleepyMagpie #312 2 years ago

    One of the absolute best games I have ever played. I am thrilled to own this, and the last days I have been completely absorbed and wracked in the world of Demon's Souls.

    Well done From Software and PS3. You've come of age.

  • darc #313 2 years ago

    "How frustrating is it?"

    It is occasionally frustrating, but it's a different sort of frustration than in most other games. DS is - with very few exceptions -very consistent in terms of difficulty and mechanics. Spikes in difficulty aren't scripted and they don't feel cheap. (There was one exception where I was insta-killed by a named character, and when I went back she was mysteriously dead and I just picked up her loot and carried on. Actually worked in my favor, but it felt a little unsatisfying.)

    There's also one odd design decision which I personally feel every new player should be aware of. Marked as spoiler as opinions vary on this:
    If you try to pick up a loot item when you're over-encumbered, it's permanently deleted from the world, without warning, which is a little weird IMO. Player notes on the ground will sometimes warn you to check encumbrance before you encounter an item, but if you don't know about this weird mechanic, the meaning of the clue will be lost on you. I've wasted lots of time searching for items that I know "were just there a minute ago..."
    Edited by 1 at 25/06/10 @ 16:27

  • darc #314 2 years ago

    The only time this game ever steamed me so badly that I had to put it away for a couple of days, was really my own damn fault. There was a skill purchase that required a LOT of souls be acquired all at once. You can't bank souls, you can only bank items, so a single big purchase requires you carry a lot of souls, sort of like carrying a lot of cash, and this makes you vulnerable. I got killed carrying nearly 30,000 souls, and then went to retrieve them, got a little impatient and pushed the wrong button while I was standing RIGHT ON TOP OF THEM, and got killed - permanently destroying the lot.

    That hurt. :)

  • darc #315 2 years ago

    "I raved about Ico and SoTC..."

    I really feel that, even though the gameplay is in some ways the exact opposite (e.g. hordes of baddies vs. bosses only), it is somehow spiritually linked to SoTC. Demon Souls is like SoTC's demented evil step-brother. They both have incredible atmosphere, a vague sketch of a story established with minimal NPCs and minimal dialog, and both are built purely on great, innovative game mechanics.

    And there's something more - I can't quite put my finger on it - but somehow the two games share DNA, and a certain magic.

  • MeBrains #316 2 years ago

    darc: And there's something more - I can't quite put my finger on it - but somehow the two games share DNA, and a certain magic.

    it's these games I try to isolate and buy full price. all others will have to wait for the bargain bin. I am firmly convinced that games is an artform and that makes it follow the same ratio. Ernest Hemingway said it so: "I write 99 pages of shit for every one page of masterpiece."

    you do frighten me with the "demented evil step-brother". I want to enjoy the experience, not have nightmares about it! :D

  • darc #317 2 years ago

    :) Don't worry, MeBrains - they're happy nightmares.

    The opening cinematic is so over-the-top gothic I still get giddy when I watch it.

  • gablaxian #318 2 years ago

    I bought the US import version a short while before they announced the European version, and I haven't got round to playing it yet (shame on me, I know). And I was wondering if it would be worth getting the European version and playing along with other noobs on European servers. What do people think?

  • madgerald #319 2 years ago

    I'd forgotten how "FUCK!!!" this game is.. I shout "FUCK!!!" whenever i make a stupid bloody mistake and get killed; then have to go trapse back from the beggining again just to pick up my souls.

  • icelt #320 2 years ago

    @PlugMonkey

    I appreciate and agree with your suggestion that to maximize the experience of their 1st play through new players should minimize their usage of online guides and message boards. However with regard to this EU release, the BP Edition comes with a rather extensive strategy guidebook anyway, so the potential for spoilers being prematurely exposed is already "packaged in" if you will ;).

  • PlugMonkey #321 2 years ago

    @ icelt: Gack! Heresy! Honestly, why are people so determined that we shouldn't be allowed to discover things for ourselves. Or more, that we can't be trusted to. It's very odd.

    Like the hint system in Uncharted that pops up if I spend for than 5 seconds thinking about a puzzle. Just leave it with me for a moment! I'll cope!

    @ EarlBassett: What exactly is it about some people being very entusiastic about a game they love that you just can't fucking stand so much? That's very odd too.

  • riceNpea #322 2 years ago

    ive had the game from import and was able to use the souls glitch to max out the souls count on 4 characters. 2 of them are pre lvl 20 ( 1 is level 1!) if anyone wants to team up with me and i'll give them souls and buy them weapons ect. p.m. me or add me on psn

    riceNpea

  • PlugMonkey #323 2 years ago

    @ ricenpea: Won't euro players be on a different server? I'm pretty sure Asian and American players couldn't play together.

  • makeamazing #324 2 years ago

    Played it for a few hours tonight... died a number of times... and at times it did feel unforgiving... I did have a little read of the guide that comes with the game and that helped alot... but dieing does actually help alot, it helps you learn what works and doesnt... and its just important to get those shortcut doors open asap.

    But other than the initial frustration, i am starting to get the game :D, the only thing i dont like is that damn squealing song in the intro :D ... i bet its on the sound track CD too!!

  • HokutoNoKen #325 2 years ago

    Gametrailers:

    Best Role-Playing Game:

    http://ww w.gametrailers.com/video/best-r... (Demon's Souls)

    Gamespot

    Best RPG:

    http://ww w.gamespot.com/best-of/genre-aw... (Demon's Souls)

    Game of the year:

    http://ww w.gamespot.com/best-of/game-of-... (Demon's Souls)

    / Ken

  • makeamazing #326 2 years ago

    Well i picked up both :D I think that is the best solution to the problem ;)
    Edited by 1 at 26/06/10 @ 11:35

  • darc #327 2 years ago

    More random negs. "Hounded" by EarlBassett, perhaps?

    riceNpea, I've never even heard of this "soul glitch" probably best I never do - I expect it would be hard to resist.

  • apoc_reg #328 2 years ago

    WHAT A GAME!

    Been playing it all night and its rediscovered the old skool love for good games.

    Just the acheivement of progression and way the online works is so satisfying. Go get it if you havent already.

  • xenoss #329 2 years ago

    I've had my doubts about Demon's Souls, I suspected it to be overrated like so many games that get good reviews from websites. Even though Eurogamer is usually fair, and a few of my friends love this game, I wasn't entirely convinced. I'm not a big dungeon crawler fan, and I'm not big on games that are too difficult. DS is a dungeon crawler (not really an RPG) that is famous for being insanely difficult. It doesn't sound like much to me.

    But then I got it on a sale and played it. To my surprise, this game is actually great. I reread the Eurogamer review after having played the game, and understand every word of it. What I read as dull gameplay that is overhyped, now I know is exactly as the review says. This game is a lot of fun in a very strange way. On paper it still sound like something I'd hate, but in practice it is addictive fun.

    Make no mistake about it, this is no RPG. It is an action dungeon crawler. It isn't about making decisions and playing a role, it is about going through death traps.

    Even if everything you read about the game, everything you saw told you that you won't like it, I implore you to still get your hands on it somehow and try it for yourself. Play it for a few hours (I thought I'd hate it during my first hour, I thought I was right about the game all along, until I played more and realized I didn't, couldnt stop). You may be surprised at what you find. I'm very glad I got this game.

  • Huxley82 #330 2 years ago

    Everyone recommends Royal to start off with but i much prefer the Temple Knight. Their armour is the best for physical defense and their starting weapon will kill everything in 2 quick jabs if you use 2-handed stance. No need to use a shield when you can murder everything before they can get in range of you!

  • darc #331 2 years ago

    "On paper it still sound like something I'd hate, but in practice it is addictive fun."

    +100.


    @EarlBassett - nothing personal, man. I just wrote that because someone earlier said it might have been you and I thought it was ever so slightly (OK very slightly) clever. If it wasn't you, apologies.

  • PlugMonkey #332 2 years ago

    "Everyone recommends Royal to start off with but i much prefer the Temple Knight."

    Good for you. Just pick a class and run with it. Why play someone else's game? I picked a Wanderer because it was the opposite of what I normally pick, and have never had any cause to regret it. I just had to find MY way of doing things.

    Pick whatever character you like the sound of. If you pick Royal because it's the 'best', or Wanderer because that's what I picked, or something else because of what someone else told you, you're already missing out.

  • gmjapan #333 2 years ago

    Oh man i love this game! Its Severance reborn minus the silly combos. Levelling up and stats dont matter if you're going to let enemies chop you up.

    This is what i would consider an proper, exciting action game. I certainly dont consider it hard or frustrating. Whenever i have died its been for a reason that i can learn from. Repeating isnt frustrating or ardious either; i can mow through the respawns with refined skills or have the first one kill me by complacency. Its that simple and beautiful.

    I find myself looking forward to each and every fight because i know that it will be as hard or as easy as i make it for myself and not because i didnt take the axe with 100 dmg instead of 10 or some other nonsense.

    I'm actually sad that responsive controls and great design are so revolutionary to action gaming. Looking forward to more action titles that arent simply mashing a single button thru a dozen enemies then holding another to hoover up orbs or stacking stats and ubermoves kinda deals :)

  • gypsumfantastic #334 2 years ago

    I need to scream to the world how epically, sadistically, bleakly, brilliantly compelling this game is.

    I am totally addicted. The demons own my soul.

  • FuzzyDuck #335 2 years ago

    Finally sat down to play this tonight - wow.

    The game really instills fear into the player - I'm terrified of what's around the corner and i'm also terrified of making a blunder and losing my loot. Heck, i'm even second guessing the messages in fear of falling foul of an outright porkie!

    To the folks at FromSoftware, well done and thank you.

  • Mashum #336 1 year ago

    The difficulty spike that is the first part of the game before you gain the ability to level up isn't helped by the sparse instructions and the way that you can easily loose large chunks of progress while you learn how the game wants you to play it.

    I nearly traded it in but am now enjoying it quite a bit thanks to the wiki and reading here about what others got out of the game.