Every FromSoftware SoulsBorne DLC Ranked

FromSoftware’s DLC expansions for their Dark Souls and Bloodborne games are notoriously well-regarded. They often act as mini-sequels, delivering substantial new content, intricate storylines, and memorable challenges. This ranking analyzes these expansions based on their impact, immersion, and overall quality.

7-6) Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Old Iron King and Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Sunken King

These two DLC packs for Dark Souls 2, while narratively intriguing, are often criticized for their frustrating difficulty and occasionally disjointed design. Their environments, while visually appealing, frequently present tedious platforming sections or challenging gameplay mechanics that detract from the overall experience. The lack of substantial narrative impact, compared to other entries in the list, further contributes to their lower placement. Elements like the underground city and the fortress, despite their unique charm, often feel like obstacles rather than enriching additions. The Sunken King DLC, though aesthetically superior in places, fails to elevate the overall package.

5) Dark Souls 3: Ashes of Ariandel

Ashes of Ariandel, the first DLC for Dark Souls 3, presents a smaller, more focused expansion than The Ringed City. While visually striking, particularly the snowfield area, its lack of significant enemy variety and comparatively less extensive world leaves it slightly behind others on this list. The true strength lies in the memorable twist on a classic boss fight and, more importantly, the compelling narrative unfolding in the Cathedral. The inclusion of a strong boss encounter and an interesting meta-narrative commentary elevates its position.

4) Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Ivory King

A departure from the first two DLC packs, Crown of the Ivory King offers a more substantial and compelling story experience. The frozen kingdom of Eleum Loyce provides a rich environment tied to a poignant narrative centered on Alsanna and the Burnt Ivory King. The unique gameplay twist involving rescuing knights and the subsequent multi-boss encounter makes for a memorable and innovative challenge. This DLC effectively stands out from its predecessors with a focused, emotionally resonant storyline and exciting boss fight.

3) Dark Souls 3: The Ringed City

The Ringed City, the second DLC for Dark Souls 3, excels in its narrative convergence and world-building. The visually stunning and decaying kingdom, reminiscent of unsettling imagery, evokes a palpable sense of dread and unease. Its diverse enemy encounters, from celestial entities to summoned armies, offer a compelling and dynamic gameplay experience. The compelling interactions with NPCs and the meta-narrative commentary elevate the player’s experience. The culminating boss fight against a formidable foe builds upon elements of previous Dark Souls DLC in an impressive fashion.

2) Dark Souls: Artorias of the Abyss

Artorias of the Abyss sets a benchmark for FromSoftware’s DLC design in the Souls series. Its strategic integration within the main game, requiring the player to discover a hidden entrance, enhances the sense of discovery. The DLC’s new area, Oolacile, introducing Manus, Father of the Abyss, has a profound impact on the overarching lore of the series. This expansion excels by introducing a difficult, memorable boss encounter and establishing a significant template for future Dark Souls DLC. The introduction of a dedicated PvP arena also sets a precedent for future FromSoftware games.

1) Bloodborne: The Old Hunters

The Old Hunters takes Bloodborne to a whole new level, exceeding other DLC packs in terms of atmosphere and narrative. It plunges the player into a terrifying Lovecraftian nightmare. The gradual escalation of dread, starting with the familiar Cathedral Ward and culminating in the chilling fishing hamlet, creates an unforgettable and disturbing experience. The Old Hunters’ DLC features disturbing lore within the oppressive atmosphere, from the experiments to the village, and ultimately the unforgettable boss fight against Lady Maria. The quality and atmosphere of this DLC solidifies its status as the best in the SoulsBorne franchise.