Dark Souls II vs Bloodborne GOTY Black Friday Deals 2026

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

For Black Friday 2026, Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition suits players who want fast, aggressive combat, while Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin delivers a longer, more flexible fantasy adventure. I researched and compared editions, platform details, reviews, and owner feedback to help you choose the right version—not just the closest-looking box.

The key difference is simple: Bloodborne is a PlayStation 4 exclusive with a focused gothic setting, while Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is available across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Here's the bottom line: buy Bloodborne GOTY for its bundled expansion, or choose Scholar of the First Sin for more platform options and a larger set of build choices.

How We Picked

• Edition value: We checked whether each version includes the main game, expansions, and other meaningful content.
• Platform fit: We separated PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC editions to reduce the risk of buying an incompatible copy.
• Player experience: We compared combat pace, difficulty, world design, and customization using published details and owner feedback.
• Collection value: We considered whether bundles provide multiple games or a particularly complete version of one game.
• Buying clarity: We prioritized listings with identifiable platform and edition details, and flagged import or DLC considerations.

Comparison Table

Product	Best for	Platform	Included expansions or games	Players
Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition (PlayStation 4, European Import)	Complete Bloodborne package	PlayStation 4	The Old Hunters	1
Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PlayStation 4)	Expanded PlayStation adventure	PlayStation 4	3 DLC chapters	1
Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne (PlayStation 4)	Base Bloodborne campaign	PlayStation 4	No expansion	1
Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy (PlayStation 4)	Three-game collection	PlayStation 4	3 games	1
Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One)	Expanded Xbox adventure	Xbox One	3 DLC chapters	1
Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PC, Steam)	Expanded PC adventure	PC	3 DLC chapters	1
Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II (PlayStation 3)	Original-release collectors	PlayStation 3	Original release	1

Dark Souls II vs Bloodborne GOTY Black Friday Deals 2026

#1 · Top pick

Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition (PlayStation 4, European Import)

The Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition (PlayStation 4, European Import) is the best complete Bloodborne pick for players who want the main game and The Old Hunters expansion in one edition. The package centers on 1 single-player action RPG.

Best for: PlayStation players who want Bloodborne and its expansion together.

Platform

PlayStation 4

Players

1

Included expansion

The Old Hunters

Genre

Action RPG

Pros

• Combines the main game with its major expansion.
• Offers Bloodborne's distinct gothic world and aggressive combat.
• A tidy single-disc choice for a complete run.

Cons

• European import listings require careful region and language checks.
• The PlayStation 4 edition is not a native PlayStation 5 release.

Is the Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition includes the base game and The Old Hunters expansion, making it the clearest pick for PlayStation players who want the complete Bloodborne experience in one package.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#2

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PlayStation 4)

The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PlayStation 4) is the best all-around Dark Souls II edition for players who want its expanded content on PlayStation. The release includes 3 bundled DLC chapters.

Best for: PlayStation players seeking the expanded Dark Souls II edition.

Platform

PlayStation 4

Players

1

Included DLC chapters

3

Edition

Scholar of the First Sin

Pros

• Includes the three Crown DLC chapters.
• Offers extensive character and equipment customization.
• Provides a complete, long-form Dark Souls II package.

Cons

• The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PlayStation 4)'s enemy and item placement differs from the original release.
• The deliberate pace feels less immediate than Bloodborne.

Is the Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin includes all 3 Crown DLC chapters and gives PlayStation players the expanded version of the game. Choose it for build variety and a slower, methodical combat rhythm.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#3

Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne (PlayStation 4)

The Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne (PlayStation 4) is the best entry point for players who want the core Bloodborne campaign without prioritizing the expansion. The game is a 1-player action RPG built around fast combat and exploration.

Best for: Players who want the base Bloodborne game.

Platform

PlayStation 4

Players

1

Game format

Action RPG

Expansion included

No

Pros

• Delivers the core Yharnam campaign.
• Rewards aggressive attacks and careful timing.
• A direct pick for players who already own the expansion.

Cons

• The base edition does not include The Old Hunters.
• An older used copy can have case or disc wear.

Is the Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne (PlayStation 4) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne (PlayStation 4) is a strong choice for players who want the original campaign and do not need the expansion bundled. Check the listing contents if you want The Old Hunters as part of the same purchase.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#4

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy (PlayStation 4)

The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy (PlayStation 4) is the best collection for players who want the main Dark Souls series in one package. The set contains 3 games, including Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin.

Best for: Players building a Dark Souls collection.

Platform

PlayStation 4

Games included

3

Dark Souls II edition

Scholar of the First Sin

Format

Collection

Pros

• Packs three core series entries together.
• Includes the expanded Dark Souls II edition.
• Makes it easy to follow the series across multiple games.

Cons

• A larger collection is unnecessary for players who only want one game.
• Confirm the exact regional package and included discs before ordering.

Is the Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy brings 3 mainline Dark Souls games together and includes Scholar of the First Sin. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy (PlayStation 4) is the most convenient choice for a series collection, but a single-game edition makes more sense for a focused comparison.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#5

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One)

The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One) is the best expanded Dark Souls II option for Xbox players. The edition includes 3 Crown DLC chapters alongside its revised game content.

Best for: Xbox players who want the expanded edition.

Platform

Xbox One

Players

1

Included DLC chapters

3

Edition

Scholar of the First Sin

Pros

• Includes the three major DLC chapters.
• Offers a substantial adventure with flexible character builds.
• Provides an Xbox option for the Scholar edition.

Cons

• Not compatible with PlayStation consoles.
• The revised encounters differ from the original Dark Souls II release.

Is the Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One) bundles the three Crown DLC chapters with the expanded game. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (Xbox One) is the direct choice for Xbox players who prefer deliberate encounters and extensive character customization.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#6

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PC, Steam)

The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PC, Steam) is the best PC edition for players who want the complete Scholar release. The package includes 3 Crown DLC chapters and supports PC controls and settings.

Best for: PC players who want the expanded Dark Souls II edition.

Platform

PC

Storefront

Steam

Included DLC chapters

3

Players

1

Pros

• Includes the three Crown DLC chapters.
• Offers PC display and control options.
• Provides a long campaign with numerous build paths.

Cons

• A Steam listing or code is not a console disc.
• Check PC system requirements and storefront region before purchase.

Is the Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PC, Steam) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (PC, Steam) gives PC players the expanded game and all 3 Crown DLC chapters. Confirm storefront, region, and system requirements before selecting a digital listing.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

#7

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II (PlayStation 3)

The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II (PlayStation 3) is the best pick for players who specifically want the original PlayStation 3 release. The game is a 1-player action RPG, but its content and presentation differ from Scholar of the First Sin.

Best for: Collectors and players using a PlayStation 3.

Platform

PlayStation 3

Players

1

Edition

Original release

Genre

Action RPG

Pros

• Preserves the original release for collectors.
• Plays on the PlayStation 3 platform.
• Offers the core Dark Souls II adventure.

Cons

• Does not match the expanded Scholar edition.
• Used physical copies can vary in condition and included content.

Is the Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II (PlayStation 3) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes, for collectors and PlayStation 3 owners. The Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II (PlayStation 3) is the original release, not Scholar of the First Sin. Choose it when that specific version matters more than the expanded edition's bundled DLC.

Check Price on Amazon

See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon

Which is better, Dark Souls II or Bloodborne GOTY?

Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition is the stronger pick for fast combat and a tightly focused gothic setting, while Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin suits players who want more build variety and a slower pace. Both are challenging action RPGs, but their combat rewards different instincts.

Bloodborne pushes aggressive attacks, quick movement, and pressure. Scholar of the First Sin puts more weight on careful stamina use, equipment choices, and exploration. Worth it for most players: choose the game whose combat style sounds more fun, rather than chasing a supposed universal winner.

What does Bloodborne GOTY include?

Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition includes the Bloodborne base game and The Old Hunters expansion. That makes it the most complete single-game Bloodborne option in this guide, especially for someone starting fresh on PlayStation 4.

The GOTY edition listed here is a European import. Check the listing for disc language, region, and exact contents. PlayStation 4 games are generally region-free for gameplay, but expansion compatibility and digital content depend on the account and release region. A physical edition with clearly stated contents is the simplest route.

What is different about Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin?

Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is an expanded edition that bundles the three Crown DLC chapters and revises enemy and item placement. The PS4 and Xbox One releases are distinct from the original PlayStation 3 version, so buyers should match the edition name to their console.

The extra content gives the Scholar edition a fuller package for a new player. Returning players should also know that familiar encounters and routes do not always match the original release. Choose the original PlayStation 3 game for collecting or replaying that release, not as a substitute for Scholar.

Which game is best for a first Soulslike?

Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition is a strong first pick for players who enjoy fast action, while Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is a better fit for players who prefer slower planning and broad equipment choices. Neither game removes the challenge that defines the genre.

New players should expect repeated encounters, learning enemy patterns, and exploration that rewards attention. Bloodborne's pace encourages taking the initiative; Dark Souls II supports a more measured approach. Pick the control style and atmosphere that keep you curious after a difficult fight.

Which platform and edition should you buy?

PlayStation 4 owners can choose either Bloodborne edition, Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, or the Dark Souls Trilogy collection. Xbox One players should select the Xbox Scholar release, and PC players should confirm that a listing activates on Steam in their region.

Match the platform printed in the product name to the system you own. For used physical games, check disc condition and whether DLC comes on disc or through a code. For imports, verify language and expansion compatibility. For the Trilogy, confirm that the package includes the games and edition details you expect.

Buying Guide

Choose your combat pace

Bloodborne favors quick movement and offense. Dark Souls II rewards patience, stamina management, and preparation. Pick the rhythm you want to learn.

Match the game to your console

Bloodborne is a PlayStation 4 release. Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is available for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Check the full platform name before checkout.

Compare included content

Bloodborne GOTY includes The Old Hunters. Scholar of the First Sin bundles 3 Crown DLC chapters. The Dark Souls Trilogy includes 3 games, including Scholar.

Inspect imports and used copies

Review region, language, disc condition, and DLC details. Imported editions and used listings do not always include the same extras or codes.

Buy for your actual play style

Choose Bloodborne for an intense gothic action game, Scholar for extensive build choices, or the Trilogy if you want a multi-game collection.

FAQ

Is Bloodborne GOTY better than Dark Souls II Scholar of the First Sin?

Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition is better for fast combat, a gothic setting, and a bundled expansion. Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is better for broad build options and a slower pace. The right choice depends on the style of play you enjoy.

Does Bloodborne Game of the Year Edition include The Old Hunters?

Yes. Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne: Game of the Year Edition includes the base game and The Old Hunters expansion. Check the exact listing, especially for an imported copy, to confirm region, language, and how the expansion is supplied.

Does Dark Souls II Scholar of the First Sin include all DLC?

Yes. Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin includes all 3 Crown DLC chapters. Confirm that the listing is the Scholar edition for your platform; the original PlayStation 3 release is a different version.

Can I play Bloodborne on Xbox or PC?

No. Sony Interactive Entertainment Bloodborne is a PlayStation 4 game, not an Xbox or PC release. For Xbox One or PC, Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is the matching game option in this comparison.

Which Dark Souls II version should I buy?

Choose Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin for its bundled 3 Crown DLC chapters and revised content. Select the PlayStation 3 original only if you specifically want that release or own that console. Always match the listing to your platform.

Is the Dark Souls Trilogy worth buying?

Bandai Namco Entertainment Dark Souls Trilogy is worth considering for players who want 3 mainline games together, including Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin. A single-game edition is a better fit if you only want to compare Bloodborne with Dark Souls II.