Demon’s Souls review (PS3) By sydislam Published: 12/28/09 PrintEmail
Demon’s Souls is one of those titles that will probably be flying under the radar, and it really should not be the case because it one of the better role playing games of the year. Amidst some stiff competition this year, Demon’s Souls manages to hold its own. The storyline transpires with the premise of demons pilfering souls (hence the title Demon’s Souls). Intrepid fighters are vanquishing demonic creatures and that just about sums up the entire narrative. For such a deep world, it is rather disappointing to see the plot come up so short.
The gameplay is one of those titles that does require patience, but is engrossing over some time. At its core, the combat is arguably a hack and slash level grinder. Novice gamers will probably be turned off by the arduous learning curve, yet that is one obstacle that is worth overlooking. You can customize character by selecting the character type to the weaponry. Adversaries have a propensity to make mincemeat out of you instantaneously. This is why the trial and error and gameplay mechanic is so vital. However, in an effort to mitigate the frustration that is presented, there is a fairly unique gameplay twist. That unique twist is undoubtedly the use of death. For example, you will see blood from other players who have died. Furthermore, you will be given hints about how they were killed as well. Moreover, there will be clandestine tips that are going to be left behind from others to warn you of not so conspicuous booby traps which are nearby. This works both ways. There is plenty of incentive to reciprocate to the person who warns you of these booby traps because it is a win-win for both parties. The recipient will receive a helpful tip, and the dispatcher will be awarded with an attribute boost.
The visual style in the game is both pessimistic and dark (as it should be). Some of the animations can be downright bizarre. Excluding that, the castles have a distinct gothic tone.
In regards to the audio, let’s just be blunt about it. The voice acting is an utter catastrophe. Nevertheless, the sounds effects work well and harmonize the gloomy tone. There really is no substitute for the excellent ambiance present with the sound.
Overall, the inexperienced individuals will easily recognize Demon’s Souls and jump to the impromptu conclusion that it is just another rudimentary role playing game. But beyond its rough and gritty exterior, there are nuggets of vastness in these souls.
Art direction 9 The visual style in the game is both pessimistic and dark (as it should be). Some of the animations can be downright bizarre. Excluding that, the castles have a distinct gothic tone. Audio 9 In regards to the audio, let’s just be blunt about it. The voice acting is an utter catastrophe. Nevertheless, the sounds effects work well and harmonize the gloomy tone. There really is no substitute for the excellent ambiance present with the sound. Gameplay 8.5 The gameplay is one of those titles that does require patience, but is engrossing over some time. At its core, the combat is arguably a hack and slash level grinder. Replay value 9 With all the character types, there is plenty to do. Presentation 7 For such a deep world, it is rather disappointing to see the plot come up so short. Final verdict 8.5 out of 10
Demon’s Souls is one of those titles that will probably be flying under the radar, and it really should not be the case because it one of the better role playing games of the year. Amidst some stiff competition this year, Demon’s Souls manages to hold its own. The storyline transpires with the premise of demons pilfering souls (hence the title Demon’s Souls). Intrepid fighters are vanquishing demonic creatures and that just about sums up the entire narrative. For such a deep world, it is rather disappointing to see the plot come up so short. 
