DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED review

Launched in May 2018, DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED is a captivating overhaul of the original 2011 classic action RPG, DARK SOULS™. Crafted by FromSoftware and released by Bandai Namco Entertainment, the game thrusts players into a profoundly demanding and aesthetically somber universe. As a fan and a conqueror of both the original and the remastered version, I've come to appreciate the nuances and updates that set the remastered version apart, and I’m excited to share this deep-dive analysis, covering everything from the narrative intricacies to graphical enhancements and beyond.

Challenges and Triumphs of Gameplay

In DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED, the gameplay is impeccably designed for those who crave challenge and strategy. The remastered version has preserved the core gameplay mechanics that made the original a legendary title within the gaming community. Players are thrust into the realm of Lordran, expected to overcome fearsome bosses, and navigate perilous environments. The game sticks to its roots of high-risk battles that demand patience, precision, and keen tactical planning.

Whether you're battling the Capra Demon in the tight quarters of a derelict building or facing the infamous Ornstein and Smough, each encounter is a heart-pounding experience. Adjustments in the remastered version, such as improved frame rates and resolution, enhance these battles, ensuring smoother combat sequences and responsiveness, which are critical in a game where every second and every dodge counts.

Exploring the Rich Lore and Intricate Narrative

The narrative of DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED is as complex and mysterious as its predecessor's. Players must piece together the story and the history of Lordran through environmental clues, item descriptions, and sparse dialogues. The game does not feed you the lore; instead, it immerses you in it and lets you explore and interpret as you see fit. This method of storytelling is both engaging and frustrating, but ultimately rewarding for those who invest the time to peel back the many layers of its dark, enigmatic world.

From the tragic tale of Artorias the Abysswalker to the gradual unraveling of the truth behind the undead curse, the game’s storytelling is subtle yet powerful. The lore is vast and interconnected, often revealing itself through multiple playthroughs and extensive exploration, making it endlessly fascinating.

Graphic Enhancements in the Remastered Version

The original DARK SOULS™ was celebrated for its atmospheric settings and artistic design, yet plagued by technical limitations. DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED has dramatically improved these aspects with significantly enhanced textures and lighting. These enhancements breathe new life into the world, making the eerie beauty of areas like Anor Londo and the decrepit decay of Blighttown even more immersive. Graphical improvements are especially noticeable in the smoothness of water surfaces and the intricacy of reflections, shadows, and lighting effects. Now, the game operates at a steady 60 FPS on both consoles and PCs, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience that is essential for the preciseness and timing needed in battles.

Sound Design: The Unseen Narrator

The sound design in DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED remains an unsung hero. Every clink of your armor, the howling winds of the high towers, the distant roars of a lurking demon, adds layers to the atmosphere of the game. The minimalist approach to the soundtrack allows natural sounds to stand out, punctuating the solitude of the journey and the impending danger around every corner. When music does emerge, it's impactful, often reserving itself for boss battles and key moments, thereby amplifying the emotional intensity of the encounters.

Cheats and Secrets: A Double-Edged Sword

While DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED is known for its punishing difficulty, the internet is rife with cheat codes, hacks, and exploits. From duplicating items to various glitches that give players an unfair advantage, these can significantly alter the experience. However, using cheats can detract from the satisfaction derived from overcoming the game’s challenges legitimately. It’s a path that I urge players to tread carefully, as the true essence of DARK SOULS™ lies in its ability to test and reward your perseverance and skill.

Strategic Tips for New and Veteran Players

For newcomers, DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED can feel overwhelming. One key piece of advice is to patient. Learn enemy patterns and take the time to upgrade your equipment. Exploration is equally vital; hidden paths often lead to helpful items or shortcuts. Veterans might enjoy the challenge of limitation runs—using only a specific type of weapon or magic, or even attempting a 'soul level 1' run where you don't level up at all.

Community and Multiplayer Enhancements

The DARK SOULS™ community is one of the most passionate in gaming. The remastered version has improved the multiplayer aspect significantly, making it easier to connect with friends and strangers for jolly cooperation or intense PvP battles. The integrated voice chat and expanded player limit per session make multiplayer more accessible, though it retains the cryptic charm of the original game by not making everything straightforward.

The Philosophy Behind the Difficulty

DARK SOULS™ is infamous for its steep difficulty curve, and the remastered version is no exception. However, it's essential to understand that the challenging nature isn't just about making the game hard; it's a philosophical choice that ties into the game's core themes—struggle, learning, and eventual triumph. Each death is a learning experience, a chance to adapt and overcome, which mirrors the trials the in-game characters endure.

Persistent Issues and Bugs

No game is without its flaws, and despite the enhancements, DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED still suffers from some lingering issues. Some players have reported bugs related to frame rate drops in specific areas, and others have encountered glitches that affect gameplay. Although these problems are not common, they can be annoyances for those impacted. It is crucial for players to ensure their game version is up to date, as patches continue to address and fix these issues proficiently.

Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Reborn

DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED is more than just a graphical update; it’s a comprehensive enhancement of an already extraordinary game. With improved visuals, sound, and multiplayer functions, it remains as compelling as ever, if not more. Whether you're revisiting Lordran or stepping into its dark, formidable world for the first time, the journey is unforgettable, filled with highs and lows that only DARK SOULS™ can offer. Teamwork, perseverance, and strategy are your best tools in overcoming this brutal yet beautiful game.