While the original release ofDemon Soulsmanaged to turn heads in FromSoftware’s direction, the argument could easily be made thatDark Soulswas the beginning of the developer’s success. Sporting just the right amount of death punishment, traps and enemies hidden around every corner, and some boss fights so challenging that gamers point back to them in fear and reverence,Dark Soulsdefined an entirely new genre of game with its success called the Soulslike.
While the game is full of memorable locations, such asDark Souls' ever-changing city Anor Londo, perhaps the most memorable of them was the game’s hub area. Called the Firelink Shrine, this location is quite literally a link between each of the game’s main areas, offering paths for players that lead up, down, and around to different locations. This gives players a sense of exploration each time they leave the hub, as well as a sense of safety and home upon their return.
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In recent years, efforts have been made by fans of the series to bringDark Soulsinto other spheres of gaming. For example, aDark Soulsboard game with miniature figureswas created, allowing fans to delve into the game in a physical sense rather than virtual. On the same note, another fan recently made a tabletop version of the Firelink Shrine, allowingDungeonsand Dragonsplaythroughs as well as other tabletop games to jump into the classicDark Soulsworld.
Reddit user WithThePowerToMelt is the creator of the tabletop map, crediting their Patreon in the post and giving a link to download the map for free. The map is immediately striking to fans ofDark SoulsandDungeons and Dragons; it is a perfect top-down map of Firelink Shrine, and the art style and nature of the map will be immediately recognizable to regular players of tabletop games. Like aperfect balance ofDark SoulsEstus Flasks, the map is a perfect balance betweenDark SoulsandD&D.
Other Reddit users were blown away by the map, congratulating WithThePowerToMelt. One user noted they will be using the map in their next tabletop session for sure. Other users shared their stories of adopting game franchises into their tabletop sessions as well as making custom rules to fit their style. Another user noted that the map style is actually very similar toElden Ring’s map design.
ThoughDark Soulswas released over a decade ago, its legacy has lasted long past its release. AsElden Ringcontinues to wow players with bosses like Margit,Dark Soulscontinues its own legacy by branching out into the world of tabletop gaming.
Dark Souls: Remasteredis available now on PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
