After the demo showcase for Mortal Shell, players are still waiting for FromSoftware to announce the release date for their new Soulslike title. Given that the demo version was somewhat rough, the game might launch later than expected. As a result, ComicBook has listed four Soulslike games coming in 2026 for players to consider while they wait.
Traditional "Soulslike" games are usually akin to Dark Souls or Bloodborne: enemies are difficult, character movements require restraint, and success in combat depends on the player's precise timing. FromSoftware's action RPGs define the main paradigm of this genre, but recent titles have introduced first-person perspectives or Diablo-like elements to expand the original framework.
Mortal Shell II
Mortal Shell II continues many traditional Soulslike designs while retaining the action style common to the genre. The game features a large interconnected world and an offense-focused combat system, requiring players to adjust their builds and hone their attack timing to handle various threats. Set in a medieval Gothic environment, it introduces new level designs within the familiar Soulslike atmosphere.
Unlike Dark Souls and Elden Ring, this game does not limit character actions with a stamina bar. Players can attack, cast spells, and use other skills more freely, resulting in faster combos and an overall quicker combat pace that feels closer to a pure action game. Instead of stamina, a resource called "Resolve" is used to activate special weapon skills and other abilities.
This sequel also adds weapons, classes, and more content based on its predecessor. Each "Shell" chosen by the player has its own combat style and affects health, resistances, and other gameplay systems. While its build freedom may not match FromSoftware's titles, it remains more detailed than most Soulslike games.
No Rest for the Wicked
Still in Early Access, No Rest for the Wicked is an action RPG supporting up to four-player co-op. The game adopts a top-down perspective similar to Diablo, but its combat follows Soulslike principles, requiring players to observe enemy actions and react accurately. Different characters have unique movesets, prompting teams to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Players can enchant weapons, craft rare armor, and plan different builds. They can also build a base using purchased or crafted items. Gameplay extends beyond combat and exploration through activities like cooking meals that boost character stats and recruiting merchant NPCs to settle in town.
The game also offers multiple areas that can be investigated with companions. Since gathering crafting materials is crucial, exploring diverse ecosystems is just as important as defeating large bosses. Random events occurring throughout the world further support seamless co-op, keeping players engaged with an ever-changing environment.
Lords of the Fallen 2
Lords of the Fallen 2 is a dark fantasy action RPG, with an overall design closer to Dark Souls and Mortal Shell. Players must master timing and understand enemy behavior to defeat massive bosses. Paths like sword-and-shield or ranged magic offer different combat styles, while large interconnected areas are filled with secrets to discover.
A key mechanic and item in this game is the Umbral Lamp. Characters can use the lamp to travel between the worlds of light and darkness, exploring environments corresponding to the living and the dead. The same location appears differently in each world; for example, a blocked path in the Axiom may become passable in Umbral, leading to hidden weapons, items, or other gear.
This design means almost every area has two versions. The Umbral realm contains more dangerous enemies but may also offer better rewards. The game supports online co-op for shared campaigns, allowing players to solve environmental puzzles together or team up to challenge bosses.
Beastieball
Beastieball is set in post-apocalyptic Japan and developed by Game Freak, best known for the Pokémon series. It combines Soulslike gameplay with Pokémon-style turn-based elements, introducing systems not typically found in real-time action-focused titles.
Most of the game's combat retains Soulslike characteristics, with giant bosses requiring precise timing and quick reactions from players. The turn-based design introduces synergy between characters, encouraging players to study how different combat elements interact. Currently, no specific release date has been announced for Mortal Shell, and delays remain only a possibility based on the current state of the demo.