I've just beat Dark Souls 2 for the second time and want to praise it
Right, I first beat DS2 ~8 years ago. My then housemate is a soulsborne fanatic, and I played DS1-3 and Bloodborne on his playstation, with his guidance. All of the games were awesome, and I got deep into the lore, but it's fair to say DS2 was my least favourite.
Since then I beat Sekiro, Elden Ring + SOTE, various soulslikes (Lies of P, LOTF2023, AI Limit, Salt and Sanctuary, Wo Long) and have decided to return to the first games, playing a different build. Dark Souls 1 did not hold up to me. Bloodborne was even better the second time round.
But woah, Dark Souls 2 has blown me away. Perhaps it's the extra experience in the genre, perhaps it's myself that's changed, but I've loved it. My Grandfather passed away from Alzheimer's last year, and between the two playthroughs, and I've reflected a lot on his deterioration and loss of self and memory.
I love the dream like aesthetic. I love that Earthen Peak elevator goes UP to the Iron Keep, finding it in keeping with the theme of the loss of self and memory. I love how hopeless The Pit and Black Gulch feel. Shrine of Amana is beautiful. Even the "bad" bosses are fine - less frustrating than many bosses that get a pass in the other games IMO. I enjoyed all bosses in DS2 more than Taurus Demon, Capra Demon, or Gaping Dragon.
I never played the DLCs before. I've heard they're pretty good. I'm so glad I gave this game another playthrough.