DARK SOULS™ II: Scholar of the First Sin

Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
Release: Apr 1st 2015
Platforms:
Action
RPG
Challenging
Atmospheric
Innovative
Clunky
Hacking
DARK SOULS™ II: Scholar of the First Sin Poster

" Challenging action RPG with strategic combat and deep lore but slow, clunky gameplay early on "

DARK SOULS™ II: Scholar of the First Sin Review

DARK SOULS™ II: Scholar of the First Sin is a divisive yet deeply engaging entry in the Souls series, often regarded as the "middle child" with unique mechanics and a distinct atmosphere. Players praise its methodical and weighty combat, emphasizing strategic stamina management and slower-paced encounters that differ from other titles. The game encourages exploration and patience, with varied and visually memorable environments ranging from moss-covered ruins to fiery hellscapes. The inclusion of features like bonfire ascetics, lifegems, and the adaptability stat add layers of complexity and customization.

While not as universally beloved as Dark Souls I or III, many players find its experimental elements refreshing and appreciate the large amount of content, including three well-received DLCs. The game’s PvP remains active and fun despite issues with hacking. However, some aspects like level design, enemy placement, and boss quality receive mixed feedback. Overall, it’s recommended for players willing to embrace its differences and challenges rather than expecting a direct sequel experience.

Highlights

Players especially praise the gameplay mechanics for being deliberate and strategic, with stamina and healing systems that reward patience. The graphics and visual design are noted for their unique, colorful, and atmospheric environments, particularly the hub area Majula and zones like the Dragon Aerie. The storyline and lore are appreciated for their depth and integration with gameplay, with interesting NPCs and multiple endings. The DLC expansions are highlighted as some of the best content, offering challenging and memorable boss fights.

Additionally, the game’s PvP is considered one of the series’ peaks, providing diverse builds and fun multiplayer interactions.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include clunky and slow combat that can feel frustrating, especially early on due to the adaptability stat affecting i-frames. The level design and enemy placements are often described as confusing or artificially difficult, with mobs that chase players relentlessly. Boss fights receive mixed reviews, with some bosses considered boring or underwhelming compared to other Souls titles. The lack of Steam Cloud Saves and occasional bugs are also noted as inconveniences. Furthermore, hacking in multiplayer and the punishing mechanics like slow healing and cursed status detract from the experience for some players.

Overall, these issues impact accessibility and pacing, making the game less appealing for casual players.

Pros

  • Strategic, weighty combat rewarding patience and planning.
  • Rich, atmospheric environments with unique visual design.
  • Extensive content with multiple DLC expansions.
  • Innovative mechanics like bonfire ascetics and lifegems.
  • Deep lore and multiple endings enhance narrative depth.
  • Active and engaging PvP community and mechanics.
  • Varied and customizable character builds and playstyles.

Cons

  • Slow and clunky combat can frustrate early players.
  • Confusing level design and artificial difficulty via enemy placement.
  • Mixed quality of boss fights, some unmemorable or easy.
  • Adaptability stat required for effective rolling is cumbersome.
  • Lack of Steam Cloud Saves limits convenience.
  • Hacking issues in multiplayer diminish PvP experience.
  • Slow healing mechanics and cursed status can be punishing.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

DARK SOULS™ II: Scholar of the First Sin brings the franchise’s renowned obscurity & gripping gameplay to a new level. Join the dark journey and experience overwhelming enemy encounters, diabolical hazards, and unrelenting challenge.

Release Date Apr 1st 2015
Publisher Bandai Namco Entertainment, FromSoftware, Inc.
Developer FromSoftware, Inc.
Required Age 13+
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (30,958)
84% Positive 16% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
79