Of the many action RPGs inspired by the
Soulslike
genre to emerge recently,
The First Berserker: Khazan
immediately captivated me with its demo, blending seamless action with
classic Soulslike combat.
The full release elevated that experience, providing a vast array of unlockable
powerful abilities and a formidable selection of
challenging bosses to conquer. Now that I’ve completed my initial playthrough, I imagine you’re
looking for something similar to fill the void.
Look no further! I’m here to provide my personal recommendations for games
resembling First Berserker: Khazan, aiding you in selecting your next
gaming adventure.
10
Thymesia
Fight Back the Plague
I encountered Thymesia around its release and, while it doesn’t have the
same level of intensity as Khazan, it earns its place on this list as an
overlooked gem.
This indie Soulslike features a haunting medieval horror atmosphere, a
distinctive weapon-stealing mechanic derived from the plague, and a
structured, linear level design.
Although it lacks the polish of Khazan, Thymesia offers a good starting
point with its concise length and a strategic combat system demanding
skillful play. It’s worth a try, as you might appreciate its strengths
despite its imperfections.
9
Blasphemous 2
The Saint Punisher
Although it might seem like an unusual choice, allow me to elaborate.
Blasphemous 2, while being a 2D Metroidvania, shares a crucial similarity with Khazan:
a rigorously demanding combat system.
Similar to Khazan, you’re presented with numerous weapon options to defeat
the horrific forces confronting the Penitent One. Gameplay demands precise
platforming and combat execution.
While the games differ substantially, I wanted to steer clear of obvious
choices and highlight worthy titles that are somewhat unconventional
compared to Khazan. You won’t regret experiencing Blasphemous 2, even if the
Metroidvania-style exploration isn’t typically your preference.
8
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
A Bird with Plucked Feathers
Playing through
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
was a highlight of 2025. While we had mixed opinions on certain parts, we
generally found it to be a gratifying experience.
I’m convinced that Khazan enthusiasts will appreciate this game, primarily
because its level design is intricately connected. I praised Wuchang’s
design to my friends, noting its strong resemblance to the original Dark
Souls level design.
Beyond that, amidst initial struggles, you’ll discover a combat system that
promotes aggressive play while requiring diligent exploration for every
NPC quest
and concealed conclusion.
7
Code Vein
The Otaku’s Dark Souls
I’ll admit, I wasn’t the biggest
Code Vein fan.
Even though I had mixed feelings after playing it a few years ago, it’s
still worth playing if you enjoyed Khazan.
Aside from the evident
anime-inspired aesthetic
in both games, Code Vein provides an abundance of familiar features: a
decent array of weapons and an RPG stat system that encourages
buildcrafting to triumph over bosses and dungeons.
It might feel unfair at times, especially with the game’s strange take on
the Anor Londo dungeon and the slow pace of some enemies. Nonetheless, it
remains a solid Soulslike title to explore, especially with the sequel
planned for later next year, which I hope greatly improves upon the
original.
6
Remnant 2
Diggin’ Souls & Shootin’ Hordes
Having experienced the original when it was free on PS Plus,
Remnant 2 quickly
became a sequel I looked forward to.
Despite being different from Khazan, after playing it completely with the
DLCs, it’s a worthwhile game for fans of the Soulslike style and gritty
vibe, essentially “Dark Souls with guns.”
It’s challenging even in co-op, with
Remnant 2’s third-person shooting
demanding thorough preparation as you explore eerie biomes to defeat cosmic
horrors and alien creatures.
If you enjoyed Khazan’s relentless combat or want to explore TPS gameplay,
give Remnant 2 a chance. You likely won’t be disappointed. Grab a friend
or two to join you in the main campaign and DLCs.
5
Nioh 2
Team Ninja’s Golden Child
I struggled with the first game, but Team Ninja improved on that formula
to create
Nioh 2, one of the
best action RPGs
available.
Although not a typical Soulslike, if you enjoyed the intense boss fights in
Khazan after the initial hours, you’re missing out by not playing Nioh 2.
The key difference is that Nioh 2 includes complexity in its RPG features.
While Khazan isn’t simplistic, you need to actively manage your stances and
weapons because they’re important in boss fights and play styles.
With the third game coming, now is the perfect moment to play Nioh 2 because
it features multiple weapon choices and difficult combat.
4
Stellar Blade
More Than a Thirst Vacuum
Regardless of what you think, I enjoyed
Stellar Blade
and believe it’s an exceptional modern action-adventure game, even if it
doesn’t match genuine character action game standards.
I spent much of my youth playing silly but fun action-adventure games such
as X-Men Origins: Wolverine or Heavenly Sword. Stellar Blade reminds me of
them because of its gritty tone and biome-based exploration.
Both Khazan and Stellar Blade are action games that incorporate ability
usage, offering a potent advantage and avoiding repetitive battles.
And on top of that, who doesn’t want to outfit Eve in many detailed costumes
– or at least the good, comprehensive outfits?