Es I have been looking forward to this video every since watching the making of ds1 and you mentioned it at the end I think? Or maybe it was a clip announcing that it was going to be alot bigger and that you were shocked at how much went on behind the scenes during the making of this game, I really do enjoy your videos alot they are more informative and seem to dive deeper into alot of the smaller details which usually come from some pretty interesting interactions and some time luck or a mixture of both, your style seem more in depth and very unique, and I love it mate. Please continue and I'm writing this at only 20 seconds into it lol that's how much trust I have in you as a creator
Hello sir. Your timestamps aren't working because your video description doesn't begin with them. I suggest you edit the video description so that the very first line of text begins with: "00:00:00 The Game Reveal", as otherwise the actual timestamps will not appear on the scrollable grey/red progress bar - that being the whole purpose of having timestamps to begin with. Yeah we can look them up now but that requires opening the description, whereas it should be available by simply pressing the arrow keys on your TV remote. While you are at it, please also make that same change for the making of dark souls 1 video's description, because it also doesn't have working timestamps. Amazing work as always and thank you!
This video doesn't have nearly enough clickbait, incredulous expressions in the thumbnail, or boss rankings to ever be truly popular on youtube, but it's so good in a kind of way that I'm glad still exists. As a long time souls fan I still learned a ton, and the presentation is so clean and soothing and just plain well done. Thanks for making this.
I especially like the section where Tanimura explains how he is responsible for DS2's balance while video clips of hordes of enemies absolutely ravaging the player are being shown on the side. Jokes aside though, these videos are just masterfully crafted: the extensive research behind them, the logical and clear structure, even the voice in the narration... Thank you!
@dondonrv I was recommended your channel by two speedrunners, and you absolutely didn't disappoint. This series has changed me as a person more than any book I've ever read, and wholeheartedly saved me when I was at my lowest. Your work is more than appreciated. I recommend you to all other Fromsoft fans I know and encourage them to do the same. Your vast amounts of research, editing, and video structure deserve 20 times the amount of credit you have received. It's criminal. You should be another Zullie or Vaati. Thank you
You don't get enough credit for the amount of research you put into your videos. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them, and even as a long-time fan, I learned something I never knew. Excellent video.
I absolutely LOVED dark souls 2. the time before it came out and during its life span, was some of the greatest gaming in my life. the game itself was incredibly fun when it came to online, so much so me and my friends dubbed it Dark Souls Online. to this day it had the best multiplayer fromsoft has ever done.i have thousands of hours on the original version amd when scholar came out, it revitalized the online and everybody came back. it was incredible. the covenants and belfry areas, getting your red aura in the brotherhood of blood, fight clubs in iron keep, golfswinging people off ledges, corrosive urns on afk players. this game was simply amazing
Dark Souls II contributed a lot to the evolution of the Souls games, the amount of armor/weapons in this game, the PVP, the accessibility features that influenced the later Souls games, etc..
The amount of promotional content Bandai did for DS2 is truly staggering, I remember thinking about how much content was put out leading up to the release, much much more than any other fromsoftware game
DS2 might be a reason why nowadays it's complete radio silence until From/Bandai have whatever they are working on nearly finished. So we have DS2 backstory almost known to little details but we know basically nothing about how Elden RIng or AC6 were made.
@@431kris true. i remember at one point in the interview the devs said "enemies will break through walls in this game" but there's only ever one area where an ogre breaks through a wall. other times its foot soldiers breaking doors and it doesn't even happen that often
You forgot the forest of the fallen giants area. The turtle with the mace destroyed the wall, and the hollow night with the fire bombs near the 2nd bonfire.
dude you came out of nowhere with the berserk references in souls games videos and have been dropping bangers ever since i love watching these and sleeping to them most nights please keep up the good work and don’t stop you’re the best soulsborne channel out here
My heart truly goes out to the DS2 devs. They had to put on a happy face and parade a half-salvaged game around in the face of insatiable fan expectation, all the while knowing that the genius behind the original title was crafting Bloodborne behind the scenes.
Exactly! The things they are aiming for with that torch and darkness, is something inherent in Bloodborne. Tanimura is a very patient man, after they made him do all those events / promotions. (And if it is not clear to most viewers, his answers were all scripted, he can't deviate from it as From+Bandai don't want another Shibuya scenario / backlash)
@@dondonrv Wonderful essay, by the way. This game has always captured my imagination despite it’s many flaws. It was great to learn so much more about its creation. Keep up the great work!
Agreed, and I honestly feel like revisiting some of the ideas was part of Elden Ring's design. They got to revisit and achieve so many of the failed concepts or scrapped ideas from earlier games, but DS2 specifically. I'm sure the staff who worked on both projects were so happy to get to finally salvage some of those worthy concepts.
I think a lot of the hate for DS2 was due to the downgraded lighting effects from the trailers, and Miyazaki fanboys who were looking for any reason to hate on it because Miyazaki didn't direct. I think it would have been more well received if they hadn't focused so much on those insane lighting effects early on, and just slapped Miyazaki's name in the director credit. DS2 had some of the best exploration, weapon/ armor variety of any of the souls games.
This will always be my favorite dark souls game, It has so many things going on for it, the creativity, the atmosphere, the somber music, the lore, It was an amazing dream-like experience.
Thank you for including Keza McDonald's (completely accurate) take on the beginning of DS2. Her original review of Demon's Souls is what convinced me to give it a try on PS3 back in the day, so she's who originally shepherded me to the series that is still my favorite today.
Man. I've been watching all the docs you've done, and it's so insane seeing how they marketed this game. So many gimmicks, bandai namco was out of their minds. Great job with all the videos btw, congratulations on the quality of your work.
Still one of the nicest intros graphic wise I've seen. I'm in the camp of original DS2 to Scholar but my personal favorite entry. The graphics are just fucking silly good even on the 360/PS3. Armors mesh with weapons and models flawlessly not seen until Elden Ring. Just aesthetically meticulous.
I couldn't be more happy that this was released! Great job as always, these things take a lot of time to make and your content is always amazing. Keep it coming!
I am currently playing Dark Souls 2 for the first time. This video definitely made me appreciate the game for what it is. I am really enjoying myself so far.
You did a fantastic job, here. Lots of interviews I had not yet seen. Your audio balancing and volume normalisation are improving greatly. Keep up the great work!
In an ironic twist of fate, the much hated Tomb of Giants pitch black darkness mechanic requiring a lightsource became the crux of ds2's gravitas and also, in it's complete final product absence, it's ultimate downfall as this betrayal would ultimately cement ds2 as the black sheep of souls games.
Watched the whole thing. Can't wait for the Bloodborne episode, gotta be the most intriguing game that FromSoft has made and I want to relish every single detail of it. Holds a special place in my heart for getting me into the Souls series as a whole. Amazing job with this episode as usual. Really paints the picture as to why DS2 is more of a black sheep than other Souls/FromSoft games.
I believe Dark Souls 2 was extremely important in the trilogy. I don’t believe its a bad game but it really displays what flavors Miyazaki adds to his games. Without Miyazaki the game loses part of its being.
BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SINCE YOU ANNOUNCED IT!! Beat this game a couple months ago (my last souls game), and have been wanting so bad to know how it was developed and what exactly happened to make it so different than the games it's sandwiched between. Thank you so much for making this! Looking forward to your future vids!! :)
I really appreciate your effort in making this videos. Something you rarely find, all these informations, the timeline and everything else. Thank you for bringing this content.
I searched for DS2 development after hearing about it's rocky dev time in a Zullie video, and I found this. I'm not too far into the video yet, but It is great so far. I love the small guides in each frame, and your voice sounds very professional!
I'm one of those people who enjoy playing this game. I won't say it's superior to the original or its sequel, but I do find it enjoyable and replay it from time to time. 🤣
I love DS2 and I play through it a couple times every year! I don't think it's nearly as bad as some people make it out to be...I think the biggest thing I don't like is the snap point movement...It feel strange at first, but I quickly got used to it...
I like this game, maybe not as much as the others but I like it a lot. It introduced some geniunely great ideas, some of them that continued in later games and others were that I wish they continued like its version of ng+
Dark Souls 2 was my first game in the series, I played it with friends on the PS3. While I hold many dear memories about it, since this was the game that got me into the series, It is true that the quality overall is way below that of DS1. Not only in graphics but level and enemy designs are inferior. However despite all that I think DS2 is a truly special game with lots of content to enjoy. So I'm not blinded by nostalgia with it being my first Souls game, I have no problem in saying that it's by far not the best Souls game but it is indeed a very good game.
Absolutly amazing work, dude. I love DS2 much but can understand old fans of DS1 At my point Tanimura make a great job for such a huge game in only 15 month So I not surprized thats hi onboard with Miadzaki on Elden Ring
It's like watching a documentary on some tragedy or war. "Let's see how it got to this point, how it got so bad... Let's hope people don't repeat these mistakes."
Love this series!!🧡, your gathering, deconstruction and engeneering of the real life processes and events- into a coherent story~timeline is splendid and by itself is worth notetaking.+ the learning of the souls/miyazaki/from processes are so precious! This must require so much work~ Thank you thank you!
I learned a lot not only about Dark Souls 2 but about Fromsoftware as a whole. Miyazaki stayed true to his vision on creating new IPs and delivering the best product possible after DS2. Thanks for making this amazing informative video documentary.
This was extremely well edited, and very non-biased, you put out most all pre-dev information interviews I hadnt seen before, and I felt I had done a lot of research. Excellent breakdown
Great work with this series so far. Can't wait for the rest! Your channel is one of about 3 or 4 from which I actually go out of my way to check for new content from!
Thank you for making a video that deepens my appreciation for something I already enjoy. I was a pretty late adopter of the Dark Souls franchise, so it's nice to have this quantified, informative telling of the major points of the non-in-game events surrounding Dark Souls 2. I'll never stop typing if I start talking about my preferences or what I wish other people appreciated about Dark Souls 2, but the bottom line is I *do* enjoy the game and knowing more about things I enjoy makes me happy, so thank you.
Your channel is a gem man, incredibly in-depth journalism and a perfect presentation. Also if you don't mind me asking where do you get the music for your videos. I only recognize the firelink shrine themes and majula theme. Keep it up man
Thanks for the feedback! All music are from the Souls games only! (So this video has the Demon's Souls music and the Dark Souls "Souls of Fire", in addition to those you noticed) (The next video will include music from Bloodborne, and so on... until we reach Elden Ring, which will contain music from all Souls games)
Great video! This was my first Souls game back then, saying it has no problems would be a massive lie but at the same time I love a lot of ideas that came with it like powerstance, bornfire ascetic and the multiplayer overall is the one I like the most in the series like a lot of people wether it is the coop or pvp aspect. This game gives you a lot in every way, many areas, many weapons, many armour sets and the NG+ is worth doing more than any other games in the series imo for what it brings, so great replay value. I understand why people dislike it for various reasons, but it'll always have a special place in my heart
Agreed! Thanks for sharing! Dark Souls II contributed the most in the evolution of Souls games in terms of accessibility (the first to have a respec feature, which DSIII and Elden Ring inherited, and so on) I wanted to have Bonfire ascetic in other Souls games, just to have that "Boss rematch"!
I have to say, I’m always watching (well, more like listening) to video essays while gaming, and your content has been such a pleasure to consume while doing so. Some of the best stuff I’ve seen on the series. Keep at it! Will you be doing a DS3 video soon?
What an awesome documentary! You really surpassed yourself with this one. It was extremely insightful to know more about what happened do Dark Souls II and to the people who worked on it. While it may not be their best game, Dark Souls II definitly helped Fromsoftware to not repeat the same mistakes and in the end, everyone got their "happy ending", including Tanimura who became co-director of both Dark Souls III and Elden Ring and a man of trust of Miyazaki's team. Keep up the good work, I can't wait for Bloodborne ❤
Agreed! I regret not adding the section in this video about the "Legacy of Dark Souls II", but it contributed a lot to the accessibility of future games. Thanks for the feedback! :)
DS3 was my first souls game. I never heard of the games before then. I came in at the end of the souls series. DS2 became my fav of the trilogy. Its really a solid game. All 3 have flaws but 2 I think is put much more under a microscope than the other 2 because of the buildup leading to its release. I never had to come into DS2 with all that baggage which I think contributed to why I love it so much. Very interesting to see the lead up to the game and its process.
Really looking forward to this. I actually really loved Dark Souls II and it's my most memorable souls game. I dont believe it deserves all the hate it got.
Great job on the doc! Very well produced. One piece of evidence that you could have included regarding the extent of the remaking that Dark Souls 2 went through during the directorial change is the first promotional DS2 website . Basically there used to be a DS2 website (it's down now but has been archived) that included artwork, item portraits and bits of a story about time travel and magic crystals, none of which exist in the final game.
Thank you so much for this amazing documentary! I am just about done with my first playthrough of game myself and really am enjoying it so far so far. I know it has a lot of haters but this game is great and thank you so much for putting all the time into this game. I knew it had a troubled development so this video is very important to the context of everything. But so far I think Dark Souls 2 is actually an amazing game and extremely addictive!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :) (I believe Dark Souls 2 is a good game as well, and one that has the biggest legacy in terms of accessibility that influenced the rest of the Souls games, up to Elden Ring)
Great video, loved to have more insight into the development of this game, since it was a really troubled one, I think maybe the mid section showing media interviews and gameplay was a bit dragged and couldve been greatly summarized to focus more on the final part of the video, which in my opinion was the most informative and interesting, I wouldve loved to see more details on the cut content, areas and ideas that have been covered in channels like illusorywall.
Thanks for the feedback, as I have shared in other comments, I decided to remove three large sections of the final video - Features, Changes to Release Version, and Legacy of Dark Souls II. Maybe in the future I can revisit them. But for this one, it was my intent from the very start to make it different and fill it with as many trailers, promos as possible. I wanted to make a point regarding overcompensation, and what an alternate universe will look like if suddenly Miyazaki disappears from FromSoftware (without actually saying the words)
Havent finished but man, you are the souls historian. I wasnt even aware of the Souls series until Sekiro. Really appreciate all the effort on the research
This is like a true-crime documentary, but for a Souls game. :) my butt went numb, but this is still 100x better than watching Avatar 2 imho. Hoping you get more subscribers after this monumental work.
These are an incredible resource for those of us who want to learn more about these games. Your documenting across the transmedia of these titles is incredible. I have read so many interviews on these games' creations but you've highlighted so many more for me. Thanks!
Amazing work, Dondon, you have a new, trusty subscriber here. As for DSII, it was a game that could not possibly live up to the amount of expectations created by its predecessor. Its failure is somewhat rooted in the misunderstanding or lack of implementation of core "Souls" values, a feat that - in all fairness - the saga would never pick up again with the same confidence and splendour, leaving other branching ideas to shine by following the original inspiration (Bb and Sekiro, for me).
Fine work Dondon, thank you for documenting the whole history in a thorough and clear video. DS2 is still one of my favorite games of all time... DS1 is king, but for whatever reason I love DS2 and revisit both games annually haha!!!
Oh man the longer the analysis, the more I get hyped . You are doing a phenomenal job, man. Keep at your pace, don't rush this series. The quality shows 🤘we need more long form fromsoft content!
I don't know what to say honestly, for me Dark souls 1 and 3 had the better dodge and movement it felt more free and liberating than 2, however the many uniqueness of dark souls 2 has cemented it as my personal favourite especially the REPLAY VALUE, i had 295 hours on dark souls 2 more than any other, it also had the most unique weapons and extra stuff in the areas really made me love it.
This is the reason why I pay internet. For great content like this. Great video , and thanks for sharing this pletora of information. From software games from Miyazaki are my all time favorites, only few games had a similar impact on me similar to what Miyazaki has done, but none so often like his games.
Fantastic video overall but your summary conclusion (from about 2:35:42 until the end) is just masterful. You made some bold assertions but you brought the receipts and laid it all out in a concise & comprehensive manner. Excellent work!!!
Already watched a bit and this is awesome work once again. Going on a holiday tomorrow and this will be great to listen to during the long flight. Can't game for a few weeks but nice to take some Souls material with me. :)
I appreciate how objective this video is. I'm a huge fan of DS2 and feel the directors brought just the right amount of freshness while keeping true to what made the first one so good.
Very interesting video essay! I discovered many things I didn’t know. Ds2 is my favorite of the three souls. Knowing how troubled was the development it’s almost a miracle they were able to finish it an make it so successful. I remember when it was released despite some criticism the majority of the fanbase still loved it. I feel the hate towards dark souls 2 truly started to rise after ds3 was released. Even many self proclaimed dark souls expert changed their opinion dramatically, and that’s quite interesting. Anyway thanks so much for the great work! I really look forward to see the dark souls 3 development history ;)
dark souls 2 was my first souls game and it was one of the most memorable experiences i have ever played apart from someone i know telling me dark souls1 was hard i didnt go in with any expectations about trailers or graphics and i was very impressed by the quiet eerie yet relaxing ambiance the emptiness of majula with the sunset and desolate surrounding was better than any story because it allowed you to project your own story .. a sens eof despair yet someohow against yuour own will predesevering and the gameplay really matched that becuase it was disempowering. how slow you are and how limited your stamina and hp are and how slowling your stamina recovered and how long the animation are and slow your recovering is which makes every actin a huge commitement .. the poise system and staggering weapons the chip damage from the early shield . the weight and agility systems and many more systems even the geometry of levels . everything was against you the learning curve was intimidating but i kept coming back because it never felt unfair. you can sense the incredibly high skill cieling because pf the tight controls .and after hundreds of hours i was speedrunning th game in less than 60min . i played the game at the right time too 10 years was like the beggenning of the downfall of society . so it wasnt only impressed with the gameplay this game resonated with me in any ways. as for the criticism it doesnt make sense to me that its the first thing to come up when searching about ds2 . i get it the game is clearly unfinished and the map isnt interconnected andthe textures are basic and itll feel like a downgrade if you played ds1 first. but the game isnt about visuals and graphics. its about artstyle and combat the rpgs mechanics ect.the only criticism i agree with is false advertizing. but still with all its flaws the game is a masterpiece.
I've beaten all FromSoft's soulsborne games multiple times but this is the one I keep coming back to. Despite its flaws, I just really dig the vibe. Keep up the good work. Your videos are really thorough on a topic i love.
Finished watching it. Nicely done! Such a great video capturing the intricacies of making a game like this one! My first souls game was Elden Ring so really appreciate providing all the historical context including the turmoils.
I watched the video you did on Bloodborne and just had to check out the one you’ve made for ds2 as the development of it has always been interesting to me. You’re doing a great service to the fans of these games with the videos you’ve made on them. I just wish they’d get more traction. They’re far better than the hundredth iteration of “Can I beat ds2 with a broken ladle” or whatever
I enjoy watching your videos! I'm an aspiring Game Developer in College and learning about a game I like from your videos inspires me! Can't wait to see the next video.
Dark souls 2 was my introduction to the series. Despite the claimed attempts to make the game more accessible, i was frustrating and confused at first and put it down 30 minutes in. My oldest brother convinced me to give it another shot with some crucial advice that allowed me to understand what dark souls is all about. I was hooked after finishing Heidi's Tower. I'm biased when it comes to dark souls 2, even after playing the rest from the series. I love dark souls 2 and it is my favorite game ever!
(Timestamps in the Description) Thanks for watching! If you enjoyed the video, please consider subscribing.
Es I have been looking forward to this video every since watching the making of ds1 and you mentioned it at the end I think? Or maybe it was a clip announcing that it was going to be alot bigger and that you were shocked at how much went on behind the scenes during the making of this game, I really do enjoy your videos alot they are more informative and seem to dive deeper into alot of the smaller details which usually come from some pretty interesting interactions and some time luck or a mixture of both, your style seem more in depth and very unique, and I love it mate. Please continue and I'm writing this at only 20 seconds into it lol that's how much trust I have in you as a creator
Hello sir.
Your timestamps aren't working because your video description doesn't begin with them. I suggest you edit the video description so that the very first line of text begins with: "00:00:00 The Game Reveal", as otherwise the actual timestamps will not appear on the scrollable grey/red progress bar - that being the whole purpose of having timestamps to begin with.
Yeah we can look them up now but that requires opening the description, whereas it should be available by simply pressing the arrow keys on your TV remote.
While you are at it, please also make that same change for the making of dark souls 1 video's description, because it also doesn't have working timestamps.
Amazing work as always and thank you!
LOL the cleric beast scream during the part where Miyazaki is quoted as saying “I’m directing something else”
Haha..you noticed it! I was trying to avoid the word "Bloodborne" in the whole video...
@@dondonrv It was a nice touch-reminded me of going up the ladder the first time in Yharnam :)
@@CKVideoGamesI remember that day well I got rained out of work and decided to try bloodborne. That game kicked my ass all day long
@@joewalsh886 That is a perfect setting for a first day of Bloodborne.
REEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
This video doesn't have nearly enough clickbait, incredulous expressions in the thumbnail, or boss rankings to ever be truly popular on youtube, but it's so good in a kind of way that I'm glad still exists. As a long time souls fan I still learned a ton, and the presentation is so clean and soothing and just plain well done.
Thanks for making this.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I especially like the section where Tanimura explains how he is responsible for DS2's balance while video clips of hordes of enemies absolutely ravaging the player are being shown on the side. Jokes aside though, these videos are just masterfully crafted: the extensive research behind them, the logical and clear structure, even the voice in the narration... Thank you!
Haha..you noticed! :)
@dondonrv I was recommended your channel by two speedrunners, and you absolutely didn't disappoint. This series has changed me as a person more than any book I've ever read, and wholeheartedly saved me when I was at my lowest. Your work is more than appreciated. I recommend you to all other Fromsoft fans I know and encourage them to do the same. Your vast amounts of research, editing, and video structure deserve 20 times the amount of credit you have received. It's criminal. You should be another Zullie or Vaati.
Thank you
@@dondonrvthat's the joy of editing videos, adding little things in for people to notice and looking in the comments to see if anyone spotted it.
You don't get enough credit for the amount of research you put into your videos. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them, and even as a long-time fan, I learned something I never knew. Excellent video.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I absolutely LOVED dark souls 2. the time before it came out and during its life span, was some of the greatest gaming in my life. the game itself was incredibly fun when it came to online, so much so me and my friends dubbed it Dark Souls Online. to this day it had the best multiplayer fromsoft has ever done.i have thousands of hours on the original version amd when scholar came out, it revitalized the online and everybody came back. it was incredible. the covenants and belfry areas, getting your red aura in the brotherhood of blood, fight clubs in iron keep, golfswinging people off ledges, corrosive urns on afk players. this game was simply amazing
Dark Souls II contributed a lot to the evolution of the Souls games, the amount of armor/weapons in this game, the PVP, the accessibility features that influenced the later Souls games, etc..
You were not joking about this becoming a documentary. Look forward to watching this
Haha... Enjoy! :)
The amount of promotional content Bandai did for DS2 is truly staggering, I remember thinking about how much content was put out leading up to the release, much much more than any other fromsoftware game
They did overcompensate for DS2
DS2 might be a reason why nowadays it's complete radio silence until From/Bandai have whatever they are working on nearly finished. So we have DS2 backstory almost known to little details but we know basically nothing about how Elden RIng or AC6 were made.
@@431kris true. i remember at one point in the interview the devs said "enemies will break through walls in this game" but there's only ever one area where an ogre breaks through a wall. other times its foot soldiers breaking doors and it doesn't even happen that often
@@Cricket0021one in no man's warf by the spider , two in aldias keep by ogres and one more in harvest valley by the big fella
You forgot the forest of the fallen giants area. The turtle with the mace destroyed the wall, and the hollow night with the fire bombs near the 2nd bonfire.
dude you came out of nowhere with the berserk references in souls games videos and have been dropping bangers ever since i love watching these and sleeping to them most nights please keep up the good work and don’t stop you’re the best soulsborne channel out here
Thanks for the very kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
And another thanks for being one of the OG Subscribers! :)
My heart truly goes out to the DS2 devs. They had to put on a happy face and parade a half-salvaged game around in the face of insatiable fan expectation, all the while knowing that the genius behind the original title was crafting Bloodborne behind the scenes.
Exactly! The things they are aiming for with that torch and darkness, is something inherent in Bloodborne. Tanimura is a very patient man, after they made him do all those events / promotions. (And if it is not clear to most viewers, his answers were all scripted, he can't deviate from it as From+Bandai don't want another Shibuya scenario / backlash)
@@dondonrv Wonderful essay, by the way. This game has always captured my imagination despite it’s many flaws. It was great to learn so much more about its creation. Keep up the great work!
Agreed, and I honestly feel like revisiting some of the ideas was part of Elden Ring's design. They got to revisit and achieve so many of the failed concepts or scrapped ideas from earlier games, but DS2 specifically. I'm sure the staff who worked on both projects were so happy to get to finally salvage some of those worthy concepts.
@@Kamawan0it's far better than 3. I just replayed them both recently. DS2 just has that magic, where DS3 just feels manufactured
I think a lot of the hate for DS2 was due to the downgraded lighting effects from the trailers, and Miyazaki fanboys who were looking for any reason to hate on it because Miyazaki didn't direct. I think it would have been more well received if they hadn't focused so much on those insane lighting effects early on, and just slapped Miyazaki's name in the director credit. DS2 had some of the best exploration, weapon/ armor variety of any of the souls games.
I must say your attention to detail is amazing. I find new things about the series each time I watch your content.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
This will always be my favorite dark souls game, It has so many things going on for it, the creativity, the atmosphere, the somber music, the lore, It was an amazing dream-like experience.
Thanks for sharing! Some people relate it to Alice in Wonderland... an experience like that..
you get me
Thank you for including Keza McDonald's (completely accurate) take on the beginning of DS2. Her original review of Demon's Souls is what convinced me to give it a try on PS3 back in the day, so she's who originally shepherded me to the series that is still my favorite today.
Thanks for sharing! It's nice to meet early generation Souls fans :)
Dark souls 2 reveal trailer will forever remain awesome to me
Man. I've been watching all the docs you've done, and it's so insane seeing how they marketed this game. So many gimmicks, bandai namco was out of their minds.
Great job with all the videos btw, congratulations on the quality of your work.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
My favorite Souls game, still to this day. Excellent documentary on this incredibly troubled development cycle.
Thank you! :)
Still one of the nicest intros graphic wise I've seen. I'm in the camp of original DS2 to Scholar but my personal favorite entry. The graphics are just fucking silly good even on the 360/PS3. Armors mesh with weapons and models flawlessly not seen until Elden Ring. Just aesthetically meticulous.
Damn you really capture the general vibe of each moment talked about in the timeline, like what the emotions were at the time for fans
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :) (Yes, that was my intent! )
I couldn't be more happy that this was released! Great job as always, these things take a lot of time to make and your content is always amazing. Keep it coming!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Yo was not expecting to see Dave getting an interview, love that guy
I am currently playing Dark Souls 2 for the first time. This video definitely made me appreciate the game for what it is. I am really enjoying myself so far.
This might be the most interesting video i have seen this year. You did insane research. Cant wait for future videos. Keep up the awsome work.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
You did a fantastic job, here. Lots of interviews I had not yet seen. Your audio balancing and volume normalisation are improving greatly. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
In an ironic twist of fate, the much hated Tomb of Giants pitch black darkness mechanic requiring a lightsource became the crux of ds2's gravitas and also, in it's complete final product absence, it's ultimate downfall as this betrayal would ultimately cement ds2 as the black sheep of souls games.
Watched the whole thing. Can't wait for the Bloodborne episode, gotta be the most intriguing game that FromSoft has made and I want to relish every single detail of it. Holds a special place in my heart for getting me into the Souls series as a whole. Amazing job with this episode as usual. Really paints the picture as to why DS2 is more of a black sheep than other Souls/FromSoft games.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I believe Dark Souls 2 was extremely important in the trilogy. I don’t believe its a bad game but it really displays what flavors Miyazaki adds to his games. Without Miyazaki the game loses part of its being.
Haha.. you will like our Dark Souls III video.. it has a section about this topic! ("Miyazaki Touch")
BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SINCE YOU ANNOUNCED IT!! Beat this game a couple months ago (my last souls game), and have been wanting so bad to know how it was developed and what exactly happened to make it so different than the games it's sandwiched between.
Thank you so much for making this! Looking forward to your future vids!! :)
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Oh my Gwyn. I don't deserve 3 hours of Dark Souls 2 content.
haha.. hope you like it! :)
I really appreciate your effort in making this videos. Something you rarely find, all these informations, the timeline and everything else. Thank you for bringing this content.
My pleasure! Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated!
One of my absolute favorite games ever. Thanks for the documentary. I can't get through it in one go, but I'll chip away at it. Great work!
My pleasure! Thanks! :)
I searched for DS2 development after hearing about it's rocky dev time in a Zullie video, and I found this. I'm not too far into the video yet, but It is great so far. I love the small guides in each frame, and your voice sounds very professional!
Thanks! Much appreciated! :)
Absolutely loving this series. You do such an awesome job at historicising this beloved franchise. The passion and effort does not go unnoticed.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I'm one of those people who enjoy playing this game. I won't say it's superior to the original or its sequel, but I do find it enjoyable and replay it from time to time. 🤣
Thanks for sharing! :)
I’ve no idea why certain snobs don’t like it to be honest
@@chadclay1643 gotta respect people's opinions. Or else you become the snob
I love DS2 and I play through it a couple times every year! I don't think it's nearly as bad as some people make it out to be...I think the biggest thing I don't like is the snap point movement...It feel strange at first, but I quickly got used to it...
I like this game, maybe not as much as the others but I like it a lot. It introduced some geniunely great ideas, some of them that continued in later games and others were that I wish they continued like its version of ng+
Dark Souls 2 was my first game in the series, I played it with friends on the PS3. While I hold many dear memories about it, since this was the game that got me into the series, It is true that the quality overall is way below that of DS1. Not only in graphics but level and enemy designs are inferior. However despite all that I think DS2 is a truly special game with lots of content to enjoy. So I'm not blinded by nostalgia with it being my first Souls game, I have no problem in saying that it's by far not the best Souls game but it is indeed a very good game.
Absolutly amazing work, dude.
I love DS2 much but can understand old fans of DS1
At my point Tanimura make a great job for such a huge game in only 15 month
So I not surprized thats hi onboard with Miadzaki on Elden Ring
Agreed! He was also on DS3, supporting Miyazaki.
@@dondonrv you really awesome. So many information for all series. I'm really impressed.
27:33 well played. You have a great series going. I can’t wait to see what's next.
Haha.. you noticed that as well :)
It's like watching a documentary on some tragedy or war. "Let's see how it got to this point, how it got so bad... Let's hope people don't repeat these mistakes."
Thanks! :)
amazing work put into those videos, it gives so much INSIGHTS in what happened backstage.
Thank you!
You enlighten my week-end afternoons bro, your work is amazing.
You could work on any series i'd watch it haha
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
This game series is very near and dear to my heart. The work you put into these is so impressive.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
@dondonrv anytime, the care you show for these is much appreciated....cannot wait till I get to the bloodborne video
You post awesome stuff and with just enough time in between that I don’t feel like I’m missing it. And the detail, *chefs kiss*
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Love this series!!🧡, your gathering, deconstruction and engeneering of the real life processes and events- into a coherent story~timeline is splendid and by itself is worth notetaking.+ the learning of the souls/miyazaki/from processes are so precious!
This must require so much work~
Thank you thank you!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I learned a lot not only about Dark Souls 2 but about Fromsoftware as a whole. Miyazaki stayed true to his vision on creating new IPs and delivering the best product possible after DS2.
Thanks for making this amazing informative video documentary.
This was extremely well edited, and very non-biased, you put out most all pre-dev information interviews I hadnt seen before, and I felt I had done a lot of research. Excellent breakdown
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Great work with this series so far. Can't wait for the rest!
Your channel is one of about 3 or 4 from which I actually go out of my way to check for new content from!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Thank you for making a video that deepens my appreciation for something I already enjoy. I was a pretty late adopter of the Dark Souls franchise, so it's nice to have this quantified, informative telling of the major points of the non-in-game events surrounding Dark Souls 2. I'll never stop typing if I start talking about my preferences or what I wish other people appreciated about Dark Souls 2, but the bottom line is I *do* enjoy the game and knowing more about things I enjoy makes me happy, so thank you.
Hope you get a bigger audience, this video is masterfully crafted and presented. Thank you for this!
Haha.. thank you! This video took me the longest to create because of the "mysteries" :) Thanks for the kind feedback!
Your channel is a gem man, incredibly in-depth journalism and a perfect presentation. Also if you don't mind me asking where do you get the music for your videos. I only recognize the firelink shrine themes and majula theme. Keep it up man
Thanks for the feedback! All music are from the Souls games only! (So this video has the Demon's Souls music and the Dark Souls "Souls of Fire", in addition to those you noticed) (The next video will include music from Bloodborne, and so on... until we reach Elden Ring, which will contain music from all Souls games)
I've been watching your videos for a week or more now, you're great! Keep the good work! :)
Thank you! :)
Learnt alot about the gaming industry from this extensive video. Truly blew my mind. Respect the amount of research you've done.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Great video! This was my first Souls game back then, saying it has no problems would be a massive lie but at the same time I love a lot of ideas that came with it like powerstance, bornfire ascetic and the multiplayer overall is the one I like the most in the series like a lot of people wether it is the coop or pvp aspect.
This game gives you a lot in every way, many areas, many weapons, many armour sets and the NG+ is worth doing more than any other games in the series imo for what it brings, so great replay value.
I understand why people dislike it for various reasons, but it'll always have a special place in my heart
Agreed! Thanks for sharing! Dark Souls II contributed the most in the evolution of Souls games in terms of accessibility (the first to have a respec feature, which DSIII and Elden Ring inherited, and so on) I wanted to have Bonfire ascetic in other Souls games, just to have that "Boss rematch"!
I have to say, I’m always watching (well, more like listening) to video essays while gaming, and your content has been such a pleasure to consume while doing so. Some of the best stuff I’ve seen on the series. Keep at it! Will you be doing a DS3 video soon?
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :) Yes, Dark Souls III will be the next video, and a I hope I complete it soon! :)
These videos are simple amazing. I look forward to future vids and the new direction. X
Thank you! :)
thank you for making these videos, your effort is greatly appreciated
My pleasure!
These videos are amazing and i am looking forward to your future "The Making of", Miyazaki truly inspires me.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
What an awesome documentary!
You really surpassed yourself with this one. It was extremely insightful to know more about what happened do Dark Souls II and to the people who worked on it.
While it may not be their best game, Dark Souls II definitly helped Fromsoftware to not repeat the same mistakes and in the end, everyone got their "happy ending", including Tanimura who became co-director of both Dark Souls III and Elden Ring and a man of trust of Miyazaki's team.
Keep up the good work, I can't wait for Bloodborne ❤
Agreed! I regret not adding the section in this video about the "Legacy of Dark Souls II", but it contributed a lot to the accessibility of future games. Thanks for the feedback! :)
@@dondonrvyou can put it on elden ring video that yout gonna make
Your videos are really well made. Excited for your next videos. Subscribed!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
DS3 was my first souls game. I never heard of the games before then. I came in at the end of the souls series. DS2 became my fav of the trilogy. Its really a solid game. All 3 have flaws but 2 I think is put much more under a microscope than the other 2 because of the buildup leading to its release. I never had to come into DS2 with all that baggage which I think contributed to why I love it so much. Very interesting to see the lead up to the game and its process.
Very interesting perspective! Thanks for sharing! Considering that DS3 was your first, and yet DS2 became your favorite!
Really looking forward to this. I actually really loved Dark Souls II and it's my most memorable souls game. I dont believe it deserves all the hate it got.
It may not be the best but it certainly is the one I've had the most fun with. I dream of a Dark Souls II 2...
this video is incredible, keep making in depth content like this.
you legend
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I really liked that the socerer class could use all the magic types from that E3 demo.
Great job on the doc! Very well produced. One piece of evidence that you could have included regarding the extent of the remaking that Dark Souls 2 went through during the directorial change is the first promotional DS2 website . Basically there used to be a DS2 website (it's down now but has been archived) that included artwork, item portraits and bits of a story about time travel and magic crystals, none of which exist in the final game.
Very interesting! You are right, I could have added that info. Thanks! :)
ds2's cinematics man. . .were something else, I wish this game had more development time
For 15 months, that could have been a lot worse, and yet they were still able to make a good game
I'm absolutely loving these Dark Souls videos.
Thanks! :)
Thank you so much for this amazing documentary! I am just about done with my first playthrough of game myself and really am enjoying it so far so far. I know it has a lot of haters but this game is great and thank you so much for putting all the time into this game. I knew it had a troubled development so this video is very important to the context of everything. But so far I think Dark Souls 2 is actually an amazing game and extremely addictive!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :) (I believe Dark Souls 2 is a good game as well, and one that has the biggest legacy in terms of accessibility that influenced the rest of the Souls games, up to Elden Ring)
3 hours of dev history about my favourite Dark Souls. It's a good day. Keep it up!
Thanks! Let's go! Enjoy! :)
Great video, loved to have more insight into the development of this game, since it was a really troubled one, I think maybe the mid section showing media interviews and gameplay was a bit dragged and couldve been greatly summarized to focus more on the final part of the video, which in my opinion was the most informative and interesting, I wouldve loved to see more details on the cut content, areas and ideas that have been covered in channels like illusorywall.
Thanks for the feedback, as I have shared in other comments, I decided to remove three large sections of the final video - Features, Changes to Release Version, and Legacy of Dark Souls II. Maybe in the future I can revisit them. But for this one, it was my intent from the very start to make it different and fill it with as many trailers, promos as possible. I wanted to make a point regarding overcompensation, and what an alternate universe will look like if suddenly Miyazaki disappears from FromSoftware (without actually saying the words)
The Bloodborne cello starting playing at the end of the video gave me chills, knowing that my favorite game is coming up.
Havent finished but man, you are the souls historian. I wasnt even aware of the Souls series until Sekiro. Really appreciate all the effort on the research
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Just an awesome series. Thoughtfully and versatile crafted. Cant stop soaking all of this videos in.
Btw: do you have a patreon account or so? I need to support that monumental works.
Thanks for all your work on this series, it's been great!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
This is like a true-crime documentary, but for a Souls game. :) my butt went numb, but this is still 100x better than watching Avatar 2 imho. Hoping you get more subscribers after this monumental work.
Haha...thank you! Much appreciated! :)
These are an incredible resource for those of us who want to learn more about these games. Your documenting across the transmedia of these titles is incredible. I have read so many interviews on these games' creations but you've highlighted so many more for me. Thanks!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Wow, simply wow. These videos keep getting better and better. You are the best man
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Thank you for making these incredible videos! I very much enjoyed this one. Looking forward to future videos.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Amazing work, Dondon, you have a new, trusty subscriber here. As for DSII, it was a game that could not possibly live up to the amount of expectations created by its predecessor. Its failure is somewhat rooted in the misunderstanding or lack of implementation of core "Souls" values, a feat that - in all fairness - the saga would never pick up again with the same confidence and splendour, leaving other branching ideas to shine by following the original inspiration (Bb and Sekiro, for me).
Thanks for sharing about Dark Souls II and for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Fine work Dondon, thank you for documenting the whole history in a thorough and clear video. DS2 is still one of my favorite games of all time... DS1 is king, but for whatever reason I love DS2 and revisit both games annually haha!!!
My pleasure! Thanks! :)
Thank you - I love these videos. Keep it up!
Let's go! Enjoy! :)
Thank god this is a long content, i have something to listen to when i am sketching😊😊😊
Thank you! :)
Oh man the longer the analysis, the more I get hyped . You are doing a phenomenal job, man. Keep at your pace, don't rush this series. The quality shows 🤘we need more long form fromsoft content!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Wow! This the most interesting and entertaining video I’ve seen on DS2. You did an amazing job with this video.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I don't know what to say honestly, for me Dark souls 1 and 3 had the better dodge and movement it felt more free and liberating than 2, however the many uniqueness of dark souls 2 has cemented it as my personal favourite especially the REPLAY VALUE, i had 295 hours on dark souls 2 more than any other, it also had the most unique weapons and extra stuff in the areas really made me love it.
Thanks for sharing! Many members of the community enjoy Dark Souls II, especially it's PVP aspect! :)
Wow! 3 hours. This is gonna be very interesting, to hear something new about this game specifically. And your new way to making videos is really cool.
Thank you! :)
Time to watch this over the course of like a week. Already can tell its gonna be amazing.
Thank you! :)
This is the reason why I pay internet. For great content like this. Great video , and thanks for sharing this pletora of information. From software games from Miyazaki are my all time favorites, only few games had a similar impact on me similar to what Miyazaki has done, but none so often like his games.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
47:16 never knew i could even do this lol
Also, can i admit im now a Keza Mac simp? I wish she'd cover every game. You can sense the passion 😊
Hahaha...count me in! :)
Loving these videos! Appreciate your time and effort you’re putting into them
Thank you! Much appreciated! :)
Fantastic video overall but your summary conclusion (from about 2:35:42 until the end) is just masterful. You made some bold assertions but you brought the receipts and laid it all out in a concise & comprehensive manner. Excellent work!!!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Already watched a bit and this is awesome work once again. Going on a holiday tomorrow and this will be great to listen to during the long flight. Can't game for a few weeks but nice to take some Souls material with me. :)
Thank you! :)
I appreciate how objective this video is. I'm a huge fan of DS2 and feel the directors brought just the right amount of freshness while keeping true to what made the first one so good.
Agreed! Thanks for sharing! :)
Very interesting video essay! I discovered many things I didn’t know. Ds2 is my favorite of the three souls. Knowing how troubled was the development it’s almost a miracle they were able to finish it an make it so successful. I remember when it was released despite some criticism the majority of the fanbase still loved it. I feel the hate towards dark souls 2 truly started to rise after ds3 was released. Even many self proclaimed dark souls expert changed their opinion dramatically, and that’s quite interesting. Anyway thanks so much for the great work! I really look forward to see the dark souls 3 development history ;)
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Wow this an exquisitely made, premium quality documentary on this game. Well done!
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
Undoubtedly the most comprehensive autopsy of DSII I've encountered in any form. Amazing work, seriously.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
dark souls 2 was my first souls game and it was one of the most memorable experiences i have ever played apart from someone i know telling me dark souls1 was hard i didnt go in with any expectations about trailers or graphics and i was very impressed by the quiet eerie yet relaxing ambiance the emptiness of majula with the sunset and desolate surrounding was better than any story because it allowed you to project your own story .. a sens eof despair yet someohow against yuour own will predesevering and the gameplay really matched that becuase it was disempowering. how slow you are and how limited your stamina and hp are and how slowling your stamina recovered and how long the animation are and slow your recovering is which makes every actin a huge commitement .. the poise system and staggering weapons the chip damage from the early shield . the weight and agility systems and many more systems even the geometry of levels . everything was against you the learning curve was intimidating but i kept coming back because it never felt unfair. you can sense the incredibly high skill cieling because pf the tight controls .and after hundreds of hours i was speedrunning th game in less than 60min . i played the game at the right time too 10 years was like the beggenning of the downfall of society . so it wasnt only impressed with the gameplay this game resonated with me in any ways. as for the criticism it doesnt make sense to me that its the first thing to come up when searching about ds2 . i get it the game is clearly unfinished and the map isnt interconnected andthe textures are basic and itll feel like a downgrade if you played ds1 first. but the game isnt about visuals and graphics. its about artstyle and combat the rpgs mechanics ect.the only criticism i agree with is false advertizing. but still with all its flaws the game is a masterpiece.
I've beaten all FromSoft's soulsborne games multiple times but this is the one I keep coming back to. Despite its flaws, I just really dig the vibe.
Keep up the good work. Your videos are really thorough on a topic i love.
Thanks for sharing and the feedback! For me, it's Bloodborne and Sekiro.. :)
Finished watching it. Nicely done! Such a great video capturing the intricacies of making a game like this one! My first souls game was Elden Ring so really appreciate providing all the historical context including the turmoils.
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I watched the video you did on Bloodborne and just had to check out the one you’ve made for ds2 as the development of it has always been interesting to me. You’re doing a great service to the fans of these games with the videos you’ve made on them. I just wish they’d get more traction. They’re far better than the hundredth iteration of “Can I beat ds2 with a broken ladle” or whatever
Thanks for the kind feedback! Much appreciated! :)
I enjoy watching your videos! I'm an aspiring Game Developer in College and learning about a game I like from your videos inspires me! Can't wait to see the next video.
My pleasure! Thanks! :)
Dark souls 2 was my introduction to the series. Despite the claimed attempts to make the game more accessible, i was frustrating and confused at first and put it down 30 minutes in. My oldest brother convinced me to give it another shot with some crucial advice that allowed me to understand what dark souls is all about. I was hooked after finishing Heidi's Tower.
I'm biased when it comes to dark souls 2, even after playing the rest from the series. I love dark souls 2 and it is my favorite game ever!
Well said! Many members of the Souls community love DS2 too!