What is this?
It's Dark Souls. It's hard, unforgiving, rage-inducing, and yet easily one of the best gaming experiences of today. It's stunning, deep, and rewarding, truly rewarding, in a way that almost no modern game is. If you liked Dark Souls 1, you will like, or love, this game. If you've never liked a Souls game, this will not change your mind.
This is a game for Souls, both Dark and Demons', fans. From Firelink Shrine, which looks like a beautiful reimagining of the Nexus from Demons' Souls, to the Sunbros with their classic, if slightly played out, "Praise the Sun" gesture, you will feel at home.
The Cons?
The camera and targeting system still suck. Not always, but both can go haywire during the more hectic moments of the game and during certain boss fights (avoid the Nameless King, whatever you do).
The increased speed of the combat is a blessing and a curse. It's accurate to say that Dark Souls III has been inspired by its cousin Bloodborne. Enemies are incredibly quick, often much faster than you, and they attack in groups. Some enemies, quite simply, feel ripped from Bloodborne (the exploding Pus Men come to mind). This combined with the targeting and camera can equal a lot of frustration.
Poise is dead. Heavy armor does not grant Poise, even though the stat still exists. Almost any enemy can interrupt or stun-lock you. "Hyper armor," granted by using heavier weapons like Greatswords and Ultra Greatswords, is a bit of a remedy, as are certain weapon arts like Perseverance (Black Knight Sword, all day), but it is still a bit irritating.
The story makes no sense. Dark Souls I had the most straightforward story, but still left the door open for ambiguity and speculation as to the characters, world, and endings.
The story in Dark Souls III is muddled, disconnected, and nonsensical. I still don't know why certain things happened. This isn't a deal breaker, but it does take away from the experience.
All-in-all, a great game and more than suitable ending to a fantastic series.