Much has been made about Dark Souls' difficulty, but really, this is more a game that expects you to make a few attempts, observe your environment, and learn from your mistakes. It's curiously addictive in the doing.

The setting isn't too shabby, either. While the lore is understated, it's found everywhere, especially item descriptions, and paints a story grander than you'll see of you just slash your way forward.

If the game has a weakness, it's in how so many of its vital systems are poorly explained or not at all. Covenants, weapon refinement, what stats are key - all of these things are important, and most you'll etiher have to figure out yourself or hear from elsewhere.

If you can get to the north dock, a UNATCO informant will give you a key to the statue doors.

He responds to the code phrase "iron cock."

Beans might be useful.

THE CAKE IS YOUR MOTHER!