The souls-like genre is no longer about trying to explain itself. Players know what they’re signing up for: tight combat windows, limited forgiveness, and progression that only comes from learning the game on its own terms. What has changed is how developers approach that formula. Instead of copying surface-level difficulty, studios are now focusing on pacing, encounter design, and systems that respect player time.
That’s why 2026 matters. Many projects once expected in earlier years have settled into this window, not because of delays alone, but because expectations are higher. The market is crowded with new souls like games, and standing out now requires more than stamina bars and dodge rolls. For anyone tracking upcoming souls-like games, 2026 looks less chaotic and more intentional.
These games aren’t trying to be harder — they’re trying to be smarter.
Code Vein II – Refinement Over Reinvention
Release Window: January 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Code Vein II stays close to what worked but removes friction points that frustrated players the first time around. Combat animations are tighter, enemy tells are clearer, and hit detection feels more consistent. The anime-inspired presentation remains intact, but the environments appear more interconnected and less segmented.
One of the biggest improvements is building clarity. Blood codes are more focused, reducing overlap and encouraging players to commit to specific playstyles. Companion AI has also been improved, offering better support without trivializing encounters.
Among the best upcoming souls-like games, Code Vein II is positioned as a strong middle ground — challenging, but not punishing for the sake of it.
A cleaner system doesn’t mean an easier game — it means fewer excuses.
Nioh 3 – High-Speed Souls for Mechanical Purists
Release Date: February 2026
Platforms: PS5, PC
Nioh 3 continues Team Ninja’s preference for pressure-based combat. Stance switching is faster, recovery windows are shorter, and enemies are designed to force constant engagement. This isn’t a game that waits for the player to breathe.
Loot depth has increased again, but inventory management is reportedly streamlined to reduce downtime between fights. Boss encounters are more layered, often changing behavior mid-fight rather than relying on second phases alone.
For players searching for the best Souls-like games, Nioh 3 appeals to those who enjoy execution-heavy combat over slow, methodical pacing.
Hesitation isn’t punished — it’s exploited.
Mortal Shell II – Minimalist Design, Maximum Tension
Release Window: 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Mortal Shell II doubles down on restraint. There’s still no traditional map, no quest markers, and very little explanation. Instead, the game relies on spatial memory and environmental cues. The shell system returns with deeper progression paths, encouraging long-term investment rather than constant switching.
Enemy placement favors ambushes and narrow spaces, making awareness just as important as reaction speed. Combat feels heavier, with longer recovery frames that punish careless attacks.
Compared to other upcoming souls-like games, Mortal Shell II feels intentionally uncomfortable. It doesn’t want to overwhelm you; it wants to unsettle you.
The silence between fights is part of the challenge.
Lords of the Fallen II – Expanding the Formula
Release Window: 2026
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Lords of the Fallen II expands its dual-realm system, allowing players to shift between worlds more freely. This mechanic now impacts enemy density, traversal routes, and boss mechanics. Decisions feel riskier, especially when realm-switching mid-combat.
The sequel also focuses on smoother progression. Level design is less fragmented, and shortcuts are more clearly integrated. Combat animations have been refined, reducing the floatiness some players criticized previously.
For fans tracking upcoming games with large-scale ambition, this title aims to balance spectacle with mechanical depth.
Power feels earned — until the game reminds you who’s in control.
Mistfall Hunter – Souls-like With Consequences That Stick
Release Window: March 2026
Platforms: PC (console versions unconfirmed)
Mistfall Hunter takes a different approach by blending souls-like combat with extraction mechanics. Each run carries real risk. Push too far, and death means losing valuable resources. Retreat early, and you survive, but progress slows.
Combat remains deliberate and stamina-driven, but strategic decisions happen outside fights as much as within them. Enemy encounters are designed to drain resources rather than overwhelm directly.
Among new souls like games, Mistfall Hunter stands out for making survival a choice, not a guarantee.
Winning doesn’t always mean killing everything in front of you.
Decrepit – First-Person Perspective, Tight Spaces
Release Window: 2026
Platforms: PC
Decrepit shifts the genre into first-person, changing how players read environments and enemies. Tight corridors and limited visibility make positioning critical. Combat feels closer and more claustrophobic, with an emphasis on sound cues.
There’s less visual information on screen, forcing players to rely on audio and timing. Encounters are shorter but more intense, often ending quickly if mistakes are made.
This won’t appeal to everyone, but for players looking for the best upcoming Souls-like games that feel different, Decrepit offers a focused experience.
You don’t circle enemies, you survive them.
Valor Mortis – Slower Combat, Clear Intent
Release Window: 2026
Platforms: PC
Valor Mortis leans into older design philosophies: slower movement, heavier attacks, and strict stamina management. There’s little emphasis on flashy abilities and more focus on spacing and timing.
Enemy variety is smaller, but encounters are designed to test discipline rather than reflexes. Progression is straightforward, with fewer systems competing for attention.
Among upcoming souls-like games, this one feels deliberately restrained.
When speed is removed, mistakes become obvious.
How 2026 Compares to 2025 Expectations
Interest around upcoming Souls-like games 2025 and upcoming Souls-like games 2025 PS5 remains high, but many titles have moved into 2026 for practical reasons. Development cycles are longer, and expectations for polish are higher.
This shift benefits players. Instead of rushed releases, 2026 offers a lineup with clearer identities and fewer compromises.
Broader Trends Across Souls-like Releases
Developers are moving away from artificial difficulty and toward smarter enemy behavior. Hybrid systems are becoming more common, but only where they serve the core experience. Interfaces are cleaner, visual clutter is reduced, and replayability is a priority.
While some players compare everything to unrelated franchises like the upcoming Battlefield game, souls-like titles continue to grow by staying focused on their niche.
Final Take
The 2026 lineup isn’t about reinventing the genre. It’s about refining it. These games know what they are and who they’re for. Whether you prefer speed, atmosphere, or calculated combat, the next wave of upcoming souls-like games offers depth without excess.
No shortcuts. No gimmicks. Just better design.
FAQ
What are the most anticipated upcoming souls-like games in 2026?
Code Vein II, Nioh 3, Mortal Shell II, and Lords of the Fallen II are among the most anticipated.
Are there upcoming souls-like games coming to PS5?
Yes, several upcoming souls-like games in 2026, including Nioh 3 and Code Vein II, are confirmed for PS5.
How are new souls-like games changing the genre?
They focus more on refined mechanics, smarter AI, and meaningful player choice rather than raw difficulty.
Are there still upcoming souls-like games planned for 2025?
Yes, but many major titles originally expected in 2025 have shifted into 2026 for extended development.
