Download Dark Souls 1 for PC

Dark Souls 1 stands as one of the most influential action RPGs ever created, defining an entire genre and spawning countless imitators. If you enjoy punishing RPGs, you might also like the brutal platforming of our Cuphead guide. Whether you’re seeking to download Dark Souls 1 for PC for the first time or comparing editions, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about acquiring, installing, and optimizing your Dark Souls experience on PC.

Whether you’re after the Dark Souls Prepare to Die Edition, the Remastered version, or a highly compressed setup, this guide ensures you get the game safely and running smoothly on your PC.

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Dark Souls 1 System Requirements (All Editions)

Can your PC handle Dark Souls 1? Check the table below before you download Dark Souls 1 on your system. The requirements are for both the original Prepare to Die Edition and the Remastered version.

The requirements vary significantly between the original Prepare to Die Edition and the Remastered version. Looking for something lighter in terms of system specs? Try Undertale for PC, which runs well on nearly all machines.

Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition System Requirements

Spec Type	Minimum	Recommended
OS	Windows XP/Vista/7	Windows 7/8/10/11
CPU	Intel Core 2 Duo E6850	Intel Core i5–2400 or AMD FX-6100
RAM	2 GB	4 GB
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GT	GeForce GTX 460 or Radeon HD 6870
DirectX	9.0c	11
Storage	4 GB	8 GB

Dark Souls Remastered System Requirements

Spec Type	Minimum	Recommended
OS	Windows 7 SP1/8.1 (64bit)	10 (64bit)/11
CPU	AMD FX-6300, 3.5GHz	Intel Core i7-3770 3.4 GHz
RAM	4 GB	8 GB
GPU	Radeon HD 6870	Radeon HD 7950
DirectX	Version 11	Version 11
Storage	8 GB	12 GB

Tip: If you’re using a low-end PC, go for the Prepare to Die Edition or a highly compressed build.

Dark Souls 1 File Size: How Many GB You Need

How many GB is Dark Souls 1? Here’s the breakdown:

Prepare to Die Edition File Size

Base Installation: 4 GB
With All Updates: 4.2 GB
Including Save Files: 4.3 GB maximum

Dark Souls Remastered File Size

Base Installation: 8 GB
With Updates and Patches: 8.5 GB
Additional Content: Up to 9 GB with screenshots and saves

The big difference in file size comes from the better visuals and extra content in the Remastered edition. If you have limited storage, the original Dark Souls 1 with its smaller, compressed files might be a better choice. Or check out our Rayman Legends guide — another compressed title perfect for tight storage situations.

Looking for a free, safe, and direct download Dark Souls 1 game?

Here’s a step-by-step process to safely download Dark Souls 1 using our secure method:

Click the “Download Setup” button.
Save the password and copy the link.
Open it in a new tab and download the compressed file.
Extract the downloaded archive using WinRAR or 7-Zip.
Open the installer and choose the desired version.
Follow on-screen instructions.
Wait for installation to complete (~2–5 mins).
Launch the game using DarkSouls.exe.
(Optional) Apply mods or patches from the ‘Mods’ folder.

Follow the above to avoid missing DLL files, black screens, or crashes. We’ve solved similar problems in our Rise of Nations installation tutorial.

Important: Always run the setup as an administrator and temporarily disable your antivirus software.

🎮 Download Options:

[Dark Souls 1 Prepare to Die Edition ✅
[Dark Souls Remastered] ✅
[Dark Souls 1 Highly Compressed] ✅

Tip: Disable background applications during extraction to prevent memory-related crashes.

Dark Souls Editions: Prepare to Die vs Original vs Remastered

Knowing the differences between Dark Souls editions helps you pick the right one for you.

Dark Souls: Prepare to Die (2012) Edition

Released in 2012, this was the first PC version:

Advantages:

Lower system requirements
Online Multiplayer (p2p)
Extensive modding community
DSfix mod compatibility for enhanced graphics
Original lighting and atmosphere

Disadvantages:

Capped at 30 FPS without mods
Limited resolution options
Games for Windows Live integration (now removed)
Less stable multiplayer

Dark Souls Remastered (2018)

The definitive modern version:

Advantages:

Native 60 FPS support
4K resolution support
Improved textures and lighting
Stable dedicated servers
Enhanced multiplayer (6 players vs 4)
Better password system for co-op

Disadvantages:

Higher system requirements
Some atmospheric changes are controversial among fans
Limited mod compatibility

Which Version Should You Choose?

Choose the Prepare to Die Edition if:

You have older hardware
You want extensive modding options
You prefer the original aesthetic
Budget is a primary concern

Choose Remastered if:

You have modern hardware
You want the best visual experience
Stable multiplayer is important
You’re new to Dark Souls

Verdict: If you’re after better visuals, go with the Remastered edition. But if you’re a hardcore fan or into modding, then go for Prepare to Die.

Performance Optimization and Troubleshooting

Common Installation Issues

Missing DLL Files:

Install Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables
Update DirectX to the latest version
Verify game file integrity through Steam

Graphics Issues:

Update graphics card drivers
Disable fullscreen optimizations in Windows 10/11
Use compatibility mode for older systems

Black Screen Issues:

Force windowed mode via DSfix.ini settings

Use compatibility mode for older Windows versions
Disable fullscreen optimizations in Windows

Lag or FPS Drops:

Install and configure the DSfix mod
Set a frame cap and adjust the internal resolution
Close background apps to free system resources

Corrupt Setup Files:

Re-download the installer from a trusted source
Compare the MD5 checksum to verify file integrity
Use a download manager to avoid corruption

Setup Freezes Midway:

Temporarily disable antivirus software
Add the installer folder to your antivirus exception list
Run the setup as an administrator

Audio Issues:

Update audio drivers to the latest version
Set the sound sample rate to 44100 Hz in the audio settings
Use stereo output instead of surround if glitches occur

Game Not Saving Progress:

Run the game as an administrator
Ensure the save directory has write permissions
Avoid installing the game in system-protected folders like Program Files

Controller Problems:

Install Xbox 360 Controller drivers
Use Steam Big Picture mode for better controller support
Consider third-party tools like DS4Windows for PlayStation controllers

Performance Enhancement Tips

For “Prepare to Die” Edition:

Install DSfix mod for 60 FPS and higher resolutions
Adjust graphics settings in the DSfix configuration
Use texture mods for visual improvements
Configure anti-aliasing through the graphics card control panel

For Remastered:

Optimize in-game settings based on hardware
Disable motion blur if experiencing performance issues
Adjust shadow quality for significant performance gains
Use exclusive fullscreen for better performance

Add-Ons:

PvP Watchdog (anti-cheat for online play)
Custom shaders and UI mods