Dark Souls 1 is known for having the cleanest first half of any video game ever made. The world is interconnected, the tutorial is substantial and fun, and the combat is weighty and memorable. Dark Souls 2 also has a solid early game, with a ton of branching paths that give the world a unique open feel with tons of options to choose from. But for Dark Souls 3, the early game has been mostly a straightforward path, with generally lackluster level design. This would then get worse with Road of Sacrifices and the Crucifixion Woods, and ultimately reach its pinnacle with Farron Keep. Never in any souls game have I come across back to back to back unenjoyable areas. The enemies are loud and obnoxious, the level design is non-existent, and the loot is forgettable. Just like my last video, I've found yet another place in Dark Souls 3 that I'll just sprint through to the boss because there is no joy to be found playing through and exploring these areas.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
2:12 - Road to Farron Keep
3:19 - Black Knight
4:52 - Crab
6:10 - Farron Keep
13:16 - 3 Elder Ghrus
15:22 - Exploring Farron Keep
18:00 - Watchdog's Covenant
19:11 - Finding the Mushrooms
23:03 - Dark Wraith
24:24 - Road to Abyss Watchers
27:20 - Abyss Watchers
37:06 - Firelink Shrine Secrets