Dark Souls is an action role-playing video game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released in 2011, the game quickly gained a reputation for its challenging difficulty, intricate world design, and unique multiplayer mechanics. Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, Dark Souls is the spiritual successor to Demon's Souls and the second installment in the Souls series. It has spawned a dedicated fan base and influenced a new generation of challenging games. Its success has led to sequels, spiritual successors, and a lasting impact on the gaming industry. The franchise is celebrated for its deep lore, challenging gameplay, and unique approach to storytelling, making Dark Souls a landmark title in the action RPG genre.