OMG, I just watched a streamer do an all bosses runs of DS3 yesterday and was reminded of how much I dislike that game. I played Demon Souls and DS1 right before it(also ER), and found my prefered build(magic) heavily nerfed to the point of having to min max my most mana efficient spells to even get through areas.

Also watching the playthrough I was reminded how there is not a single area in that game I looked at fondly or found beautiful or enjoyable to be in. I understand why thematically, but everything is so dead and drab and lifeless compared to even DS1 which has plenty of lush green areas or bold alien crystal caverns. It really feels like DS3 wants you to hate your time with the game, throwing enemies in locations that are as infuriating as possible for no reason(dlc is even worse about this somehow). The runs to get back to bosses are also infuriating and such a time waste(I am so glad Elden Ring mostly removed these)

Now I want to try DS2 to see if I actually like or dislike it more than DS3. Overall, it just feels like DS3 wants to make you suffer with no payoff or reason, just because its “hardcore” or “edgy” and in 2025 I don’t really care for that mindset anymore.