From Software’s Dark Souls series is famous for its brutal difficulty, haunting world design, and deep lore… but one of its most unique features isn’t part of the original game design; it’s the user-created messaging system. Scattered across the game’s treacherous landscapes, these cryptic notes form a secret language. Players use them to warn, trick, and connect with each other in a world where direct communication is impossible.
This system has evolved into a global subculture, where a few simple words can mean life or death for a helpless and unsuspecting adventurer. Let’s explore how this unspoken language works and why it’s so special. Koifortune also has its own gaming culture, where like-minded enthusiasts gather to test their skills with the largest online catalogue yet!
How the Message System Works
In Dark Souls, gamers can leave short messages on the ground using preset words and phrases. These notes appear in other players’ worlds, offering hints, jokes, or sometimes outright lies. The system is simple but brilliant, as it allows for creativity while keeping communication limited and mysterious.
The Building Blocks
Messages are made from a set of pre-written words and fragments, so participants can combine them to form warnings like:
- “Be wary of enemy ahead”
- “Try jumping” (often leading to death)
- “Praise the sun!” (a reference to the game’s iconic gesture)
Because players can’t type freely, they’ve learned to convey meaning through clever combinations. A line saying “Illusory wall ahead” might reveal a hidden path, or trick someone into attacking a normal wall for no reason.
The Power of Ratings
Players can rate messages they find. If one gets enough positive ratings, its creator regains some health. This encourages helpful (or funny) notes and discourages outright trolling… most of the time.
The Unspoken Rules
Over time, users developed an unofficial code of conduct. Some messages are universally understood, while others are inside jokes. Here’s how this hidden language works.
Helpful Messages (Most of the Time)
Many use notes to aid others:
- “Trap ahead” before an ambush
- “Try ranged battle” against tough enemies
- “Shortcut here” to guide lost travellers
These notes create a sense of camaraderie in a lonely, punishing world. Even though you never see the other players, their advice (or mischief) makes the world feel alive.
The Art of Trolling
Not all messages are helpful. Some exist purely to troll people:
- “Treasure below” near a deadly cliff
- “Hidden path ahead” with no path at all
- “Amazing chest ahead” (a famous meme referencing a certain boss)
This deception is part of the experience… sometimes frustrating, sometimes hilarious.
How This Created a Global Subculture
The messaging system provided hints, but above all, it built a shared language among fans worldwide, so here’s why it became so powerful.
A Universal Experience
No matter where you’re from, the notices follow the same rules. A Japanese player’s note is just as understandable to an American or European one. This creates a rare form of global culture where language barriers don’t matter.
Memes and Inside Jokes
Certain phrases became legendary:
- “Praise the sun!” – A joyful celebration of the game’s most beloved gesture.
- “Try finger, but hole” – A ridiculous (and often inappropriate) joke players love to repeat.
- “Don’t give up, skeleton!” – Found near dead skeletons, encouraging players to keep going.
These memes spread beyond the game, appearing in forums, memes, and even merchandise.
Emotional Connections in a Bleak World
Dark Souls is a lonely game, as you wander and face terrifying bosses and deadly traps alone, except for the texts. A well-placed “You can do it!” before a tough fight can feel like a stranger cheering you on.
Some even leave thank-you notes after beating a hard area, knowing others will see them. It’s a small but meaningful way to bond over shared struggles.
