Dark Souls Remastered Global
Dark Souls Remastered
Renowned for its challenging gameplay, Dark Souls has thrilled players with both exhilarating and grueling encounters, especially against its formidable bosses. The remastered version, released in May 2018, offers enhanced graphics, smoother frame rates, and improved online features, making for a more polished gaming experience.
What's New in the Remastered Version?
The Dark Souls Remastered brings several significant enhancements:
Visual Improvements: The game now supports native 4K resolution at 60fps on PC, a substantial upgrade from the original's 720p.
Multiplayer Enhancements: Multiplayer functionality has shifted from peer-to-peer to dedicated servers, supporting up to six players simultaneously after using a specific item.
Matchmaking: Improved matchmaking now adjusts guest player levels to match the host's, with options for global matchmaking and password-protected games.
Arena Mode: New to the remaster is a 3 and 6-player deathmatch mode, complete with password matchmaking and randomized respawn points.
Gameplay Tweaks: Players can now select the number of usable items, change covenants at bonfires, and find a new bonfire next to Vamos the Blacksmith. Customizable button configurations have also been introduced.
Story and Characters
Dark Souls begins with a tale of a world once dominated by dragons until Gwyn discovers the "First Flame" and the powerful "Lord Souls," using them to overthrow the dragons and initiate the Age of Fire. As the flames fade, Gwyn sacrifices himself to prolong the era, unwittingly unleashing a curse causing humans to resurrect upon death. Players control the "Chosen Undead," navigating this harsh world to conquer beasts and reverse the curse.
Gameplay Mechanics
Dark Souls Remastered is a third-person action RPG that emphasizes strategic exploration and learning from previous failures. The game features an interconnected open world centered around a hub area, with progress often gated by specific conditions. Bonfires act as checkpoints where players can restore health and healing charges, though resting also respawns most enemies.
Humanity System
Upon death, players respawn as a hollow at the last bonfire used. Humanity can be restored by using the "Humanity" item, which also enables player cooperation. Dying in hollow form results in the loss of items and humanity, which can be reclaimed if the player reaches their point of death without dying again.
Combat and Online Interaction
Combat demands careful stamina management, with each action depleting stamina that regenerates when the player rests. The game is known for its lack of direct communication, relying instead on hand gestures and "orange soapstones" for leaving messages to others in the same area. Both cooperative and PvP combat modes are available.
Player Reception
While the remastered version was praised for its improved performance and visuals, opinions were mixed among players familiar with the original; some felt the updates were not substantial enough to attract those who had already played it. However, newcomers or those who missed the original release are encouraged to experience this definitive version of the game.
Key Features
An updated version of the classic 2011 game
Enhanced graphics with up to 60fps in native 4K
Overhauled game mechanics for a smoother experience
Expanded multiplayer capabilities with up to 6 players on dedicated servers
Deep, tactical combat system that tests player skills
Consider picking up the Dark Souls Remastered to dive into its rich, challenging world with the best visual and performance enhancements available.