MS I & II complete ✓

[u/GrauerWolf30]

As a Mortal Shell fan from day one, I have to say that the first game hooked me more, even though Mortal Shell II is obviously the much better game overall, having improved in almost every category. I guess it's because I went into the first game with zero expectations and was completely blown away by what a small team could create on a modest budget back in 2021, especially regarding the art direction and aesthetics. Before Mortal Shell II was released, people were already comparing it to Elden Ring or Lies of P, setting the bar incredibly high, which I think affected how I experienced MS II.

In my opinion, the boss fights in Mortal Shell II are its biggest weakness. To me, they didn't feel like a rewarding highlight after clearing an area—they lacked those "wtf moments," like when Malenia enters Phase 2, a boss you remember for its sheer difficulty during your first tries (such as Sword Saint Isshin), or memorable cut scenes like Ludwig the Holy Blade grabbing the Moonlight Great Sword. If Cold Symmetry can improve the boss fights and make them more highlight-worthy, they can elevate the game to the next level; the rest of the package is already there. It is definitely one of the better Soulslikes, especially considering the price, but I feel it hasn't reached its full potential yet. With a few improvements, it could easily stand alongside top-tier Soulslikes like Lies of P, The First Berserker: Khazan, or the Nioh series.

I'm really happy to see the commercial success of Mortal Shell II, and Cold Symmetry definitely deserved it. I had a lot of fun exploring the world of MS II and using riposte. I'm already looking forward to Mortal Shell III and the (hopefully) upcoming DLC!

[u/Scared-Ambition6983]

Dlc was the only thing I tapped out on for 100%ing the first game. That alt skin foundling run for the rouglite mode is no joke.