The Darksiders series has had a turbulent history. While the first game was praised for its mix of Zelda-style puzzles and intense combat, the sequels drew heavy criticism – particularly the third entry, which suffered from unpolished gameplay and technical issues. With Darksiders Genesis, publisher THQ Nordic set out to revive the franchise. A new studio, Airship Syndicate, took the reins and introduced an isometric perspective, co-op play and a fresh take on storytelling. As a prequel, Genesis explores the origins of the saga, adding new depth to its universe.
Compared to the earlier entries, Darksiders Genesis leans heavily into Diablo-style action RPG mechanics, injecting new life into a franchise many believed had peaked. Judging by the reviews, THQ Nordic’s gamble paid off. On Steam, Genesis boasts around 12,700 reviews, 82% of which are positive – a clear step up from Darksiders III, which holds a more modest 76% rating. Unlike its predecessor, Genesis is also compatible with the Steam Deck (currently listed on Amazon for around $450).
At its core, Darksiders Genesis plays like a classic action RPG, featuring fast-paced combat, character upgrades and a strong focus on co-op play. What sets it apart from others in the genre is its unique duo-based system. Players step into the roles of War and Strife, two of the apocalyptic horsemen sent by the Council to thwart Lucifer’s plans. You can freely switch between them in combat – War serving as a melee powerhouse, while Strife excels at ranged attacks. This mechanic adds a dynamic layer to the action. In co-op mode, each player takes control of one horseman, making teamwork essential.
In its review, German gaming magazine GameStar awarded Darksiders Genesis a solid 82 out of 100. While the game was generally well received, it drew some criticism for imprecise platforming and occasional balance issues. Loot enthusiasts may also find it lacking, as there are no traditional item drops. Instead, players collect soul cores, which unlock new abilities and enhance character stats – a system that distinguishes it from typical loot-driven RPGs.
80% discount on Steam
Darksiders Genesis isn’t just for longtime fans – it’s also a strong choice for anyone who enjoys action RPGs. Right now on Steam, it’s 80% off, dropping the price to about $6 from the usual $30. According to SteamDB, this marks its lowest price ever. The offer runs until September 29.
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.












