Gaming Insights · Karl Kontus · January 2025
Souls-likes: From Niche to Mainstay 2025 Report
Souls-likes have grown to be an established sub-genre in the industry with most recent industry showcases featuring a mix of big and small games either fully embracing or having elements of what constitutes a souls-like.
Despite their widespread popularity, opinions within the gaming community vary regarding souls-likes; some perceive them as a transient trend, while others regard them as a niche sub-genre catering to a dedicated audience. The APAC region, with particular emphasis on Japan, China, and South Korea, has emerged as the primary force in both the development and consumption of souls-like titles. In terms of production, APAC is projected to account for 80% of releases in 2025, reflecting a notable decline in output from Western regions. This report examines the rise of souls-likes and the significant role the APAC region has played in sustaining their prominence over the past decade.
Content
Evolution of souls-like games and market share over time
Number of releases, units sold and revenue over time
AAA VS Indie titles
Top selling souls-likes
Souls-like genre evolution by georgraphy
Developers by region
Souls-like player breakdown over time by region
Written by: Karl Kontus, SVP & GM, Video Game Insights
Date: January 2025