FromSoftware‘s 2015 game Bloodborne may not have been the best selling title of the 2010’s, or even its release year, but it has stood the tests of time in the decade since its release as one of the greatest horror games of all time, boldly infusing eldritch cosmic horror and gothic aesthetics to create a visceral, haunting nightmare that resonates with fans to this day.
Directed by the legendary Hidetaka Miyazaki of Dark Souls and Elden Ring, Bloodborne follows an anonymous, beast-slaying, gun-toting Hunter who ventures through the darkness of the gothic, decrepit Yharnam in search of answers and freedom from their endless fight. Along their journey, they’ll face eldritch abominations that defy explanation, fellow hunters who have succumbed to madness and grief, and uncover the webbed mysteries that lead to the collapse of Yharnam into a realm of chaos and violence.
Courtesy of SonyMuch like FromSoftware’s other titles, this game is tough as nails, with a punishing and slick combat system that rewards repetitive practice and muscle memory. I’d argue that I personally found it one of their most challenging, but because of that, it was ridiculously satisfying when it clicked. When the game originally launched, many were put off by its difficulty, but after Elden Ring‘s rampant success, I think many players are more experienced and prepared now for the nightmarish challenges of Yharnam. Unlike Elden Ring however, it has a far more intuitive level design, and I find it easier to navigate and get through without getting stuck or hitting obstacles you can’t overcome.
Thematically, Bloodborne takes influence from authors such as H.P Lovecraft and Bram Stoker, exploring notions of nihilistic cosmic horror, mental illness, societal decay and the cost of intelligence. It’s also explicitly focused on femininity, women’s role in societies, the potential body horror of creating life within your own body, and how societal pressure can drive even the strongest to desperation. It’s themes are multifaceted and nuanced, debatably more so than any other ‘Soulslike’ game, inspiring hundreds of incredible video essays online, such as the one linked below.
As the game turns 10, there’s no better time to revisit it and venture through the haunting darkness of it’s world. Whilst it may be more action heavy, with more complex RPG elements, than most horror gamers may like, it’s still a scary and exhilarating game well-worth diving into and spending time with. In the years since, there have been adaptations published by Titan Comics, as well as an upcoming multi-player spiritual sequel for the Nintendo Switch 2 titled Duskbloods, and the game has developed a healthy and committed cult fanbase, selling over 7 million copies as of 2022. It’s also got an incredible DLC titled The Old Hunters, one of the greatest pieces of downloadable content to grace a major video game and containing multiple of the greatest (and hardest) boss fights in gaming. Dive into the cosmic, nightmarish horrors if you dare, and remember: we are born of the blood, made by the blood, and undone by the blood. Fear the old blood.
Courtesy of Sony
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