Dark Souls Is Intense, Challenging, Frustrating, and rage inducing... Its also one of the best games of 2011.
Story:
Now, you've got to understand... Dark Souls is not a story driven game. The story isn't anything special, but it does do a decent job of given you a reason for your actions. Its also lets you encounter some amazing locals, and see some truly terrifying demons.
Gameplay:
Dark Souls thrives on its combat, it feels almost perfect. Every weapon has a sense of weight, but doesn't feel unnecessarily slow or sluggish (unless its meant to). It's quick, responsive and requires patience. Button mashes need not apply, as this game requires you to block, dodge, strafe and counter. Its complex and deep.Although the lock on is a bit fidgety and there are some times where the combat is unresponsive. Tons of weapons, armor and item are strewn throughout Lordan and finding a weapon that can kick some serious A** is great.
Graphics:
Dark Souls is a pretty game, that almost never lets up. Its good but by no means "the best". The environments are colorful and varied, and each has a fresh, new feel. The framerate can stutter from time to time and is noticeable but rarely effects the game play. The guys at FROM have some great imaginations and the level and enemy design really shine. If you that a Stone Gargoyle was bada** wait till you see a gigantic grey wold wielding a huge sword in its mouth.
Interface:
Where Dark Souls lacks, the multiplayer excels. Its pretty innovative and unlike any other game franchise. While traversing This beast of a game, you'll encounter messaged written on the ground by other players, aiding or tricking you on your journey. You'll see "bloodstains" which provide a view of someones last moments, which may help you figure out whats to come.In some of the harder battles you can summon another online player, or leave signs that let players summon your help. And if you're feeling especially evil, you can invade other players game's and kill them for a heap of souls.
Replayability:
Your first trek through this game could likely take you over 60 hours, and there is a New Game+ mode which lets you replay the game, with all your current weapons and armor. And there's no way to see everything on your first play through so DS is definitely worth the asking price.
Overall:
If you can get passed the game challenging gameplay and learn to understand how everything works, you'll find a truly unique game that is without a doubt GOTY 2011 contender.