Soulsborne games are renowned for their formidable difficulty, intense boss battles, and unforgiving nature. Amidst the prevailing bleakness that characterizes these games, players are rarely afforded a moment to pause and appreciate the intricacies of their surroundings.
Within the haunting realms and somber narratives of the Soulsborne games, there exist breathtaking locales exuding a profound sense of beauty. These awe-inspiring landscapes often exhibit elements of gothic or medieval architecture, while also drawing inspiration from serene earthly realms such as beaches and bodies of water.
8 Lothric Castle (Dark Souls 3)
Lothric Castle serves as a pivotal location in Dark Souls 3, where players will navigate through its magnificent ramparts and awe-inspiring panoramic views. The castle's highest point is a formidable challenge, featuring the Twin Princes, Lothric and Lorian, testing players' strength.
As players venture through the castle's extensive halls and corridors, they will experience a constant sense of unease, as they must face off against formidable enemy knights who strike with brutal and unpredictable attacks. Remarkably preserved, the castle stands as a testament to a dying world, serving as its final stronghold.
7 Miquella's Haligtree (Elden Ring)
With a challenging boss fight awaiting at its end, navigating through Miquella's Haligtree can be initially confusing. This location in Elden Ring starts at the top of the tree, requiring players to descend carefully. The thick branches pose a risk of falling off or being knocked down by aggressive creatures, making the journey frustrating and challenging, despite the ability to jump and roll.
The Haligtree itself is a magnificent spectacle, towering over the player and making them feel tiny in comparison. If players have the strength and determination to face Malenia at the tree's base, the daunting journey down becomes almost worthwhile.
6 Fountainhead Palace (Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice)
Following the grueling battles against the formidable True Monk and experiencing its three challenging phases, players of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice are rewarded with an enchanting entrance into the partially submerged and breathtaking Fountainhead Palace. Every step forward in this area evokes a sense of fulfillment, as players gracefully maneuver through the enchanting Sakura trees and venture into ancient, deserted ruins, all leading towards the majestic palace itself.
Embracing a vast lake that accommodates the awe-inspiring Great Colored Carp and showcasing a palace adorned with regal splendor, Fountainhead Palace offers an array of smaller sections awaiting exploration by Sekiro. Imposing adversaries and numerous obstacles stand in the way, providing ample challenge for players as they navigate through this remarkable setting.
5 Forsaken Cainhurst Castle (Bloodborne)
Perched atop a snow-covered mountain, Forsaken Cainhurst Castle in Bloodborne stands as a remarkable feat of architecture, a poignant reminder of its former splendor. Once thriving with the illustrious Vilebloods, the castle now echoes with the haunting presence of restless spirits and lingering apparitions.
As players venture through its corridors, an overwhelming sense of despair becomes their constant companion. The castle, once teeming with power and prosperity, now evokes a foreboding atmosphere, where beauty and terror coalesce. It beckons players to enter its halls and discover the mysteries that reside within.
4 Anor Londo (Dark Souls)
Anor Londo, a place of immense significance in the Soulsborne universe, is renowned for its iconic status in both Dark Souls and Dark Souls 3. Exquisitely designed with meticulous attention to detail, Anor Londo is a flawless replication of a majestic and intricate environment. Within its walls, the formidable duo of Ornstein and Smough await, presenting an immensely challenging boss battle that tests the players' skills and resilience. This particular location marks a significant spike in difficulty, leaving players to confront their frustrations and prove their strength in this arduous encounter.
Under the illusionary guise created by Gwyndolin, the sun casts a dim light upon Anor Londo, perpetuating the Age Of Fire and disguising the beloved princess Gwynevere. However, choosing to eliminate Gwyndolin after acquiring the Darkmoon Seance Ring unveils the truth, permanently shattering the illusion and plunging Anor Londo into an everlasting and desolate darkness.
3 Majula (Dark Souls 2)
Majula's picturesque views capture a serenity that few can forget. Situated on the edge of a cliff, with waves crashing below, Majula offers a unique beauty that sets it apart from other starting hub areas in Soulsborne games.
As players make repeated visits to Majula to level up, it becomes a familiar haven, shielded from the perils that await in the rest of the world. The delicate, chiming theme enhances the sense of tranquility, making players feel almost at home as they immerse themselves in Majula's peaceful exploration.
2 Leyndell (Elden Ring)
The first time one arrives in Leyndell holds a special place in the magnificent world of Elden Ring. Leyndell exudes grandeur and beauty, with its enchanting alleys and meticulously crafted architecture that effortlessly displays a regal atmosphere.
Nestled at the foot of Leyndell lies the majestic Erdtree, a colossal entity that captivates the attention of players as they step foot into this legendary city. Up close, they can witness the breathtaking beauty of Leyndell and marvel at the Erdtree in all its splendor. The city itself is adorned with a golden-yellow hue, gracefully adorning numerous buildings, effectively conveying the concept of its former opulence and prosperity.
1 Irithyll Of The Boreal Valley (Dark Souls 3)
After defeating Wolnir, players progress to a universally adored region known as Irithyll Of The Boreal Valley. Arriving here is a breathtaking experience that can leave players awestruck, even upon subsequent playthroughs.
The majestic gothic architecture instantly elevates the city's prestige, and what truly highlights the significance of reaching Irithyll is the stark contrast to the preceding area, The Catacombs of Carthus. Having successfully escaped the treacherous catacombs and their skeletal adversaries, players can finally rejoice in the splendor that awaits them in Irithyll. However, this newfound beauty comes with its own risks as formidable Pontiff Knights roam the treacherous locale, posing a significant threat to players. It is a fitting setting for one of the most challenging boss battles in the entire game, and players will revel in Irithyll's enchanting allure as they traverse its streets in anticipation of this showdown.