Summary
Often praised as one the most unique titles ever released by FromSoftware,Bloodbornehas maintained cultural relevance despite having been around since 2015. A Victorian and cosmic horror interpretation of the Soulslike formula, the hunt throughout the cursed world of Yharnam has defined the PS4 generation for many players.Bloodbornemay have paved the way forSekiroandElden Ringalike, but it stood alone as a fond memory of the past since the release of The Old Hunters. Now that the latest console generation is well underway, the roleBloodborneplayed still has yet to be filled.
The usual pattern for new console releases, even the PS4 took some time to establish its software library following its initial 2013 launch. Any latest hardware is generally always able to compete with the market, but the games exclusive to a certain console form its identity. Released less than two years after the PS4,Bloodbornecame with a standard of quality that many of its fans see as yet unmatched. There have been plenty of strong releases made available for the PS5 thus far, but none of its exclusives can rivalFromSoftware’s darkest game.
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Bloodborne Was the Complete Package for the PS4
Announced with a cinematic trailer that conveyed the game’s rich world and grim tone,Bloodborne’s thematic cohesion was clear from the start. It featured the discovery-centric narrative presentation that FromSoft is famous for, but this world was far from the fantasy fare of the Souls titles. Based on the foundation of its superb art design, the gothic horror-themed land ofYharnam still holds upas one of the studio’s most visually impressive. Players even still theorize about the game’s layered lore over eight years later, asBloodborne’s disturbing story stands as one of the most captivating within the medium to some.
The story and visuals of the game are still tough to compete with, but the gameplay ofBloodborneis where it truly shines through for most. The most intense and aggressive combat system ever created by FromSoft,Bloodborneabandoned the focus on defensiveshield usage ofDark Soulsin favor of the “Rally” system that rewarded constant attacking. Between a solid selection of viable transforming weapons and the incredible variety of enemies and iconic bosses throughout the title’s areas, it’s understandable thatBloodbornehas remained such a memorable experience.
The PS5’s Bloodborne Needs to Come Soon
The release ofBloodbornecame soon after the PS4 itself, perfect timing that secured its place as one of the best console exclusives ever. With the PS5 having been initially released all the way back in November 2020, however, it’s been nearly three years without something comparable for the next generation. Legendary games like FromSoft’s ownElden Ringhave achieved prestigious status in recent years, but there hasn’t been a PlayStation exclusive of the same magnitude. Yet to be ported to PC despite fan requests,Bloodbornewas likely crafted with its hardware specifically in mind, a trait that timed exclusives likeFinal Fantasy 16aren’t like to share.
As Xbox Game Pass grows and Microsoft’s acquisition of major companies continues, it has become clearer that a new system-selling game could do a lot for Sony. It may have paved the way for the modern action RPG genre, butBloodbornewas also an extremely unique game that resulted from the right circumstances for FromSoft at the time. There’s never been a better time for the right studio to work with Sony again now that upcoming multiplatform titles such asLies of Pare cashing in by filling the void thatBloodbornehas left behind, but the PS5 needs that support sooner than later.
