A clear comparison of Nioh 3, Elden Ring, and Dark Souls. Ranked by mechanics, punishment, flexibility, and beginner difficulty.
Which game is harder overall – Nioh 3, Elden Ring, or Dark Souls – and which one fits my skill level and playstyle?
This guide answers that fully.
Final Overall Ranking
Hardest Overall → Nioh 3
Most Structurally Punishing → Dark Souls
Most Flexible → Elden Ring
Note: This ranking assumes normal solo play. Skill level and build choice can change how hard each game feels. The comparison is based on design and mechanics.
Nioh 3 – Hardest Mechanically
Why It’s Hard
- Fast combat speed
- Mandatory stance switching
- Tight Ki management
- Aggressive enemies
- Small mistake windows
Even strong builds do not carry you far without execution skill.
Mechanical demand stays high from start to finish.
Who Struggles Most
- Souls players who rely only on dodge timing
- Players who ignore system depth
- Slow, defensive players
Dark Souls – Classic Brutal Structure
Why It Feels Brutal
- Limited healing
- Long runbacks (especially early entries)
- Linear progression
- Heavy stamina punishment
You cannot easily avoid hard bosses.
You must overcome them.
Combat is slower than Nioh 3.
But structure is harsher.
Who Struggles Most
- New players
- Impatient players
- Panic rollers
Elden Ring – Hard but Adjustable
Why It’s More Flexible
- Open world freedom
- Overleveling possible
- Spirit Ashes
- Frequent checkpoints
If stuck, you can leave.
Return stronger.
Some bosses are extremely hard.
But the game gives many tools to reduce difficulty.
Who Finds It Easier
- Explorers
- Build optimizers
- Players who use summons
Difficulty by Category
| Category | Hardest |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Skill | Nioh 3 |
| Reaction Speed | Nioh 3 |
| Boss Structure | Dark Souls |
| World Punishment | Dark Souls |
| Beginner Friendly | Elden Ring |
| Most Adjustable | Elden Ring |
Playstyle Truth
Yes, difficulty depends on playstyle. But system design determines how much you can lower it.
Elden Ring gives many escape options.
Dark Souls gives fewer.
Nioh 3 demands execution regardless of build.
That is why the ranking stands.
Final Verdict
Nioh 3 tests execution.
Dark Souls tests discipline.
Elden Ring tests preparation.
Choose the type of difficulty you want. You now have the full comparison.