soulslikeadjacent

Soulslikeadjacent is a term used in game criticism to describe titles that are influenced by the design ethos of Soulslike games—most notably those associated with FromSoftware—without fully conforming to every pillar of that genre. It is an informal label meant to signal proximity and shared DNA rather than strict taxonomy, and its boundaries vary among critics and players.

Games described as soulslikeadjacent often feature deliberate pacing, combat that rewards pattern recognition and precise timing, and exploration-driven world design. They typically emphasize a high degree of player skill, meaningful but non-optional difficulty, environmental storytelling, and a climate of danger that makes progress contingent on mastering mechanics and layout. These titles may also adopt a minimalist approach to handholding, encouraging experimentation and careful observation.

Differences from true Soulslikes can include a more forgiving or pragmatic approach to progression, alternative save systems, or less punishing death penalties. Some soulslikeadjacent games integrate modern accessibility options, more linear or streamlined progression, or combat systems that emphasize different mechanics or pacing. In practice, the label captures a spectrum rather than a single blueprint, including games that borrow mood, architecture, or risk-reward loops without replicating every core mechanic.

Reception and usage: The phrase appears in criticism and community discussions to acknowledge shared design sensibilities while avoiding overgeneralization. It helps categorize games that appeal to fans of Soulslike titles but do not claim the exact same design envelope. Critics note that soulslikeadjacent is inherently fluid and can blur with other categories such as action RPG or metroidvania, limiting precision but offering useful descriptive nuance.