Best Souls-Like Games on PS Plus for Hardcore Gamers in 2025
Ever wonder how Demon’s Souls kicked off a gaming revolution? Back in 2009, FromSoftware dropped a brutal masterpiece that birthed the Souls-like genre, paving the way for Dark Souls to dominate in 2011. These punishing titles didn’t just influence games—they redefined them. For PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers, there’s a killer lineup of Souls-like experiences waiting. Think tough-as-nails combat, epic boss battles, and worlds that test your grit. This guide ranks the best Souls-like games on PS Plus, updated for February 2025, with classics and fresh additions alike. Ready to dive into the pain? Let’s go!
Voice Search Hack: “Hey Siri, what are the best Souls-like games on PS Plus?”—stick around, we’ve got you covered.
Top Souls-Like Games on PS Plus Extra & Premium
These games nail the Souls vibe—weighty combat, strategic depth, and boss fights that’ll haunt your dreams. We’re prioritizing true Souls-likes first, but quality matters too. Here’s the rundown:
1. Bloodborne
FromSoftware’s Gothic Nightmare
Bloodborne is the crown jewel of PS Plus Souls-likes. This PS4 exclusive drops you into Yharnam, a Gothic hellscape dripping with Lovecraftian dread. The atmosphere? Unreal. The combat? Relentless. Unlike Dark Souls, it’s all aggression, dodge, strike, bleed enemies dry. Fewer weapons than Elden Ring, sure, but each one’s a multi-form beast that carries you through the carnage. Even in 2025, Bloodborne might still be FromSoftware’s peak. A must-play for any gimmer craving terror and triumph.
2. Demon’s Souls (2020)
The Remade King of Souls
The 2009 Demon’s Souls started it all, and the 2020 PS5 remake by Bluepoint brings it roaring into the modern age. Boletaria’s haunting vibes and jaw-dropping visuals make it a stunner on PS Plus. Five Archstones, five unique worlds—each a gauntlet of traps and foes. The bosses? Easier than Dark Souls, but getting to them is a nightmare. The OG PS3 version’s on Premium too (streaming only), still a legend despite its age.
3. Remnant 2
Gun-Slinging Souls Action
Tired of swords and shields? Remnant 2 flips the script with third-person shooter vibes meets Souls-like grit. Guns rule here, but melee’s still in play, backed by a slick class system. Split across wild, varied realms, it’s got linear story beats and optional dungeons that mix things up with light randomization. Boss fights are massive, and co-op shines—solo’s solid too (grab the Handler archetype). A fresh twist for Souls fans.
4. Nioh
Samurai Souls with a Twist
Team Ninja’s Nioh takes the Souls formula, adds three stances, and drowns you in loot. Set in Japan’s Sengoku era, it’s fast, fierce, and packed with secrets. Smaller maps replace sprawling worlds, but shortcuts and depth keep it tight. Combat’s a Ninja Gaiden-level rush—perfect for gimmers who love speed and strategy. Loot overload might annoy some, but it’s a treasure trove for collectors.
5. The Surge 2
Sci-Fi Souls Done Right
The Surge 2 swaps fantasy for dystopian sci-fi, and it’s a blast on PS Plus. Smoother than its predecessor, it lets you chop enemy limbs for upgrades—brutal and satisfying. The world’s backstory unfolds through eerie environments, making it a hidden gem for Souls-like fans craving something different. Start with the first The Surge if you’re a completionist, but the sequel’s where it’s at.
6. Mortal Shell
Dark Fantasy with a Fresh Spin
Mortal Shell screams Dark Souls inspo, but it’s got tricks up its sleeve. Swap between “shells” (think classes) and harden mid-fight to tank hits—unique mechanics that shake up the formula. It’s linear, rough around the edges, and tough as nails. Bosses demand mastery, and the vibe’s pure grim fantasy. Not perfect, but a solid pick for Souls purists.
7. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Lightsabers Meet Souls-Lite
New to PS Plus Extra in February 2025, Jedi: Survivor is a sci-fi treat. Cal Kestis, now a Jedi Master, wields lightsaber stances and Force powers across Metroidvania-style planets. It’s less brutal than Bloodborne, leaning Souls-lite with exploration and enemy respawns. No Fallen Order on PS Plus hurts the story context, but the combat’s a blast for Star Wars fans.
8. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Indie Charm with Bite
Kena: Bridge of Spirits looks AAA but packs indie heart. You’re a spirit guide cleansing a gorgeous fantasy world with a staff-turned-bow. Combat’s less relentless than Nioh, but bosses hit hard. Puzzles and platforming round it out—accessible yet challenging. A lighter Souls-like for gimmers who love beauty with their battles.
9. Thymesia
Plague-Fueled Precision
Thymesia channels Sekiro with parry-heavy combat and a badass plague doctor lead. Three zones, tight missions, and a slick progression system keep it focused. Repetition creeps in, but the fast-paced fights test your reflexes. A solid AA indie for Souls fans who dig speed over sprawl.
10. Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition
2D Souls Masterpiece
Hollow Knight blends Metroidvania with Souls-like combat in Hallownest’s sprawling depths. No hand-holding—just you, a nail, and a world of lore and bosses. It’s tough, beautiful, and endlessly replayable. Best for 2D fans who don’t mind a Souls twist, one of PS Plus’s all-time greats.
Why Souls-Like Games Rule PS Plus
From Bloodborne’s blood-soaked streets to Hollow Knight’s eerie caves, these games demand skill, patience, and a love for punishment. PS Plus Extra and Premium might not flood you with Souls titles monthly, but this list proves quality beats quantity. Want to level up your Souls-like skills? Check out our expert tips at gggamer.net for builds, strategies, and more. Got a fave? Want more tips? Drop a comment, we’re here to grind with you!
