SoTFS is by far a better game then DS2 when it launched. Not just because of the patches that fixed the original to an extent. But because the lighting actually exists and enemy placement makes more sense. That being said DS2's pve is extremely weak. Boring boss design up until DLC. Boring level design until DLC. Lore is okay ish. pvp is entirely preference. If we forget all the nonsense DS2 dealt with before SoTFS then it's not that bad. But for me what still holds it back is: soul memory, No reason to make more than one character, no unlimited invasion item, the games overall push towards more farming then any souls title released before or after it, every weapon is buffable and infusable, the lack of having to commit to any attack since you can cancel any animation, I frames on back steps. I could be missing some things. I enjoy DS3 pvp combat the most. While it's pretty simple with not much depth it feels better overall to me. I think DKS probably had the best system when it came to invasions though. DS3's invasions are a bit too punishing even for most hard core invaders. Which doesn't feel good especially when considering how pretty much any newbie can perform alright in a pvp scenario.