‘Dark Souls III:’ Watch The Opening Cinematic [Video]


The opening cinematic for Dark Souls III makes its debut courtesy of Bandai Namco Entertainment America and FromSoftware. Clocking in at three minutes and 35 seconds, the opening cinematic for Dark Souls III gives prospective players a glimpse of what might be the final chapter in the Dark Souls franchise. Watch the opening cinematic in the above video (and continue reading) if you don’t mind the spoilers.

Old ruins high above the clouds in 'Dark Souls III.'
Ancient ruins high above the clouds in ‘Dark Souls III.’ [Image via Bandai Namco Entertainment America]
In line with Dark Souls tradition, the sweeping visuals are decidedly mysterious. In a recent statement to the press, the publisher reveals the game takes place in a land known as Lothric. From the opening cinematic and concept art above, it appears to be a place of ruins existing at an altitude above the clouds. Though, as fans of the franchise are aware, appearances can be deceiving.

FromSoftware has provided a more in-depth look at the new Thief class in their most recent livestream. The above gameplay video, courtesy of GameSpot, runs about six minutes and shows viewers how effective the Thief’s quick step ability can be. Plus, it shows off some bow and arrow action. It’s also worth noting as stunning as the visuals are in the Dark Souls III opening cinematic, the in-game graphics seem to be marvelously textured and remarkably fluid.

GameSpot has also provided a news update featuring a quick, condensed peek of the livestream footage in the following video.

If pre-orders are any indication, Dark Souls III is one of 2016’s most-anticipated games. According to VG Chartz, as of January 23, Dark Souls III has over 85,000 pre-orders in the USA for the PlayStation 4 platform. That number is about 10,000 more than pre-orders at the time for Far Cry Primal on PS4, which is scheduled for release later this month.

Those looking to pre-order the PC version on Steam are not yet able to do so. Bandai Namco said, via Twitter in response to one fan’s tweet, that details regarding the Steam pre-order will be forthcoming.

However, those PC gamers willing to make a trip to their nearest retailer for a pre-order code may currently opt to do so.

GameStop is currently offering an exclusive pre-order bonus in the form of a collectible keychain. Per the fine print, keychains are only given to PowerUp Rewards members. If you’re not a member of their free rewards program, be sure to sign up. Keychains are also available in “extremely low quantities” while supplies last upon picking up the game. To net this freebie, consumers may need to attend the midnight launch, providing there is one, or be at the store on launch day when the doors open. For online orders, the sooner you pre-order, the more likely you will be to receive this extra bonus.

All Dark Souls III pre-orders score the Day One edition of the game. In addition to the game, the Day One edition includes the official Dark Souls III paperback strategy guide by Prima Games, the official game soundtrack, and a distinctive Day One edition game sleeve cover. These extra bonuses are provided at no additional cost, and the game is available for the relatively standard launch day price of $59.99. A collectible “Prestige Edition” is available for $129.99, and it also includes the soundtrack and strategy guide. Plus, it comes with a 10-inch Red Knight statue, cloth game map, official art book, and metal game case.

Dark Souls III becomes available in North and South America on April 12 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.

[Image via Bandai Namco Entertainment America]

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