This is long but please read it. I've spent over 200 hours on this game and still going at it and having heaps of fun.

Yes it certainly is very challenging if you're used to games that don't punish you for anything you have done wrong like failing objectives and dying. And if you haven't played Demon Souls or watched strategic videos online then you would probably die about 20 times on the first boss which is right at the beginning of the game.

But don't despair! Once you've got used to the gameplay of trial-and-error, learnt to be cautious about what's around corners and started to summon online players to help you, this game will give you unlimited hours of fun!

A few things you can do in this game:

1. Join the evil Dark Wraiths covenant and actively seek and hunt down other online players desperately trying to beat their levels. Disguise as part of the environment while you're at it.
2. Help out fellow online players and help them beat the boss in a level where you're summoned.
3. Join the Forest Hunters and fend off those who enter the sacred forest.
4. Join the local policeman squad, The Blades of the Darkmoon, and bring the guilty to justice.

Customize your character to prepare for anything. Because you never know when other online players are going to invade your world. Be a melee fighter, a long ranged sorceress, a pyromancer or all three. But of course, specialization in one class makes you stronger in one aspect.

Personally, I think this game deserves a lot more credit than most players gave.

If it weren't for the fact this game is not for all gamers, I would rate this game 5 stars in a heartbeat.

Dark Souls is a dark fantasy game, with a hidden mythic storyline that differs greatly from other games on the market. The open world is beautifully dark, and uniquely connected. The highlight is combat – be it melee or ranged, it is meticulous in terms of difficulty and realism, all the while providing great satisfaction. Dark Souls is an RPG with considerable depth in upgrading weapons and armour, and in customising your character's stren­gths. There is so much content and possibility in this game, that more than one play-through is essential, even after 65 hours of play. However, the difficulty of Dark Souls cannot be ignored, and for those who do not welcome the idea of a frustrating challenge, do not try this game. For those who consider themselves true gamers, purchase Dark Souls now – you're in for an addictive experience with insane challenge and immense reward. It will prove how skilled you truly are.

Let me start this off by saying if you get frustrated easily, this game is not for you. There are many times where you will want to throw your controller at the wall or rip your hair out.

However if you have the patience this game is quite fun and rewarding, there are some beautiful views throughout the game and there is plenty to do whether it be exploring, doing the main quest, invading other players or dying (Trust me, you will be doing this a LOT ;) ).

I would definitely reccomend this game to anyone who enjoys a challenge, loves RPG's and doesn't mind dying a lot.