FromSoftware’s action RPGs have never been known for pushing the envelope in terms of raw graphical quality, but for the most part, their fidelity is good. enough their phenomenal art direction carries them the rest of the way and makes them very effective. This is a title it was not said case in point, 2014’s Dark Souls 2.
Dark Souls 2 is compelling if not inconsistent art style, though the game’s metaphorically flat and washed-out lighting and many repetitive textures throughout its levels let it down a bit. As a result, I always felt it was the ugliest Dark Souls look at the games and find the original and the third entry so it’s easier on the eyes.
One thing to keep in mind if you decide to try the mod is that it will make the game much harder in a few places, as some areas will now be pitch black, but will still have enemies that spot you perfectly. You’ll need to keep a torch or other light source handy, which I think is pretty cool.
Another consideration: DS2LightingEngine only works with the Scholar of the First Sin edition of Dark Souls 2 released in 2015, thankfully only $14.99 when loaded right now (normally $39.99). Also, to use the full path tracing version of the mod, you’ll need a ray tracing capable GPU. If you don’t have one, you’ll be limited to less advanced rasterization.
Be sure to read the mod’s full description on its page, as it explains how to install everything properly. Note that while this mod claims to be safe to use while playing online, I saw a post saying that a player was banned from Dark Souls 2’s servers a few hours after playing with it.
Another mod they use may cause this, but whatever: be aware of the risk if you decide to go online with DS2LightingEngine. Thankfully, once a moderator Yui when they finish their Dark Souls 2 Seamless Co-op project, this will no longer be a concern as it will use a separate peer-to-peer connection.
Planning to try the DS2LightingEngine mod yourself? What are your general thoughts on Dark Souls 2? Let me know in the comments and vote for which Dark Souls game is your favorite in the poll below.
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