Hey everyone! 🎮 The wait for Elden Ring: Nightreign feels eternal, doesn't it? Announced back at the 2024 Game Awards, this next chapter promises a thrilling, ability-based roguelike experience with those epic FromSoftware boss battles we all crave. But with the release still on the horizon, what's a Tarnished (or soon-to-be Tarnished) to do? Well, worry not! I've been diving deep into the gaming world, and there are so many incredible titles that can perfectly fill that Nightreign-shaped void. Whether you're looking for punishing co-op challenges or a deep single-player grind, this list has got you covered. Let's get into it!

🥇 1. Modded Elden Ring - The Ultimate Warm-Up

Ever feel like you've explored every inch of the Lands Between? Think again! If you're planning to play Nightreign, you've probably mastered the base game. But have you tried modding? I was hesitant at first too, but mods like the Seamless Co-op and Enemy Randomizer completely revitalized the experience for me and my friends. Imagine facing Malenia right at the start in Limgrave! It creates a whole new sense of discovery and challenge, perfect for sharpening those skills. It's the best way to keep the Elden Ring magic alive while you wait.

🥈 2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice - A FromSoftware Masterclass

Honestly, can we ever talk about FromSoftware without mentioning Sekiro? This 2019 Game of the Year winner is a masterpiece of precision and storytelling. Its unique posture-based combat and lightning-fast parry system are unforgiving but incredibly rewarding. If Nightreign is expected to have intense, skill-based duels (and we know it will), Sekiro is the ultimate training ground. Re-immersing myself in its beautiful, haunting story of honor and revenge was the perfect way to spend an evening. Have you conquered the Sword Saint yet?

🥉 3. Lies of P - The Most 'Souls' Soulslike Out There

Don't let the Pinocchio premise fool you—Lies of P is dark, gritty, and one of the best soulslikes not made by FromSoftware. Its Belle Époque setting, filled with steampunk aesthetics and ravaged beauty, is utterly captivating. The weapon customization and brutally challenging bosses felt so familiar and satisfying. It’s a single-player experience that will make any Elden Ring fan feel right at home. Honestly, if you love the lore and challenge of FromSoft games, this is a must-play.

4. Astral Ascent - Gorgeous & Lightning-Fast Combat

Looking for something that blends breathtaking visuals with frantic action? Astral Ascent is it. This hack-and-slash roguelite set in the Dead Cells universe is a visual feast. The combat is so fast it'll make your head spin—perfect prep for Nightreign's likely high-octane battles. While it's single-player only, the dozens of unique spells and the climb against the Zodiac beasts ensure no two runs are ever the same. It’s tough as nails but oh-so-beautiful.

5. RoboQuest - An FPS Roguelike with Zero Mercy

Okay, this one is different—it's a first-person shooter! But hear me out. RoboQuest shares that core FromSoftware philosophy: no mercy. It throws you into fights whether you're ready or not, and overcoming that punishing difficulty is incredibly rewarding. Its two-player co-op (online or local!) is a blast. Teaming up with a friend to save the world as brobots is chaotic, fun, and great practice for teamwork under pressure. The fast-paced gameplay will definitely get your reflexes ready.

6. Gunfire Reborn - Cute Animals, Serious Action

Who said preparation can't be adorable? Gunfire Reborn lets you play as cute, furry heroes in a build-based roguelike ARPG. It has that fast-paced, tool-kit-driven gameplay we expect from Nightreign, plus procedurally generated worlds for endless variety. Playing with up to three friends is where it truly shines. Choosing new buffs and abilities each level to take down giant bosses? Sign me up! It’s a fantastic, lighter-hearted way to get into the roguelike groove.

7. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon - FromSoft Mecha Mayhem

Want to stay in the FromSoftware family but try something different? Armored Core 6 is your answer. Released in 2023, it combines that classic FromSoft challenge with incredible mech customization and high-stakes aerial combat. The boss fights are notoriously difficult—just ask anyone who's faced the Balteus! Piloting your own custom AC to decide the fate of Rubicon is an unmatched power fantasy. If you love Elden Ring's difficulty, this will keep your combat skills razor-sharp.

8. Risk of Rain 2 - A Colorful Classic with Brutal Fights

A true classic in the genre! Risk of Rain 2 might be brighter than the Lands Between, but its fights get brutally difficult very quickly. It's an excellent introduction to roguelike mechanics with its item-based progression. Playing with friends makes the chaotic runs even more fun and manageable. And with a massive modding community, you can extend the gameplay for hundreds of hours. For those who loved Elden Ring's challenge, ROR2 will definitely not be a letdown.

9. Hyper Light Breaker - Neon-Soaked Co-op Chaos

Mark your calendars for this one! Hyper Light Breaker promises high-speed, character-based combat wrapped in the series' signature neon visuals. As Heart Machine's first co-op experience, designed for three-player squads, it's the perfect excuse to get the gang together. With unique classes and builds, you can truly make a character your own. It's set to be a fantastic, fluid warm-up for the teamwork Nightreign will likely require.

10. Remnant 2 - Gritty Co-op at its Finest

Last but certainly not least, the Remnant series. Both Remnant: From the Ashes and Remnant 2 offer that dark, bleak world and roguelike structure that feels so FromSoft. Fighting for humanity's survival in a post-apocalyptic world alongside two friends is an experience that truly tests your teamwork. The difficulty scales with your party, offering a serious challenge. While the mobility might not match Nightreign's expected flair, the gritty atmosphere and co-op focus make it a top-tier choice.

So there you have it! Ten amazing games to keep you busy until Elden Ring: Nightreign finally graces our screens. Each one offers a piece of what makes the upcoming expansion so exciting—whether it's the challenge, the co-op, the world-building, or the sheer adrenaline of combat. What game are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments! 👇 And remember, a Tarnished's work is never done. Happy gaming, everyone! \U0001f3ae\\u2728