I think it probably has something to do with online play, though, since Fromsoft’s multiplayer model revolves around invasion. Granted you can turn it off, so obviously there should be a pause option, but I have a vague hunch that the two issues are related from a dev/engineering perspective.

I stopped playing salt and sanctuary because of the platforming, despite being an ardent lover of souls likes.

I really like minor stat boosting items instead. So rather than giving me an inventory full of potions, give me three or four slots for items that can have a huge range of different bonuses and penalties, and they are pretty minor, but they’re permanent. That way I get to craft a build instead of just being annoyed

This is true for all of the examples of this problem that I’m aware of.

I’ve been whining to everyone in earshot about all the puzzles in remnant 2 hahaha

If you want slightly less tactical (but even more fun) turn based combat with a lot more RPG, divinity 2 original sin is phenomenal.

Phenomenal games with women as options for protagonist: Borderlands 2 and 3 both have woman protagonists (as options among a set of 4 or 6). Ditto Vermintide 1 and 2 (!!), and Divinity original sin 2.

I just played **Kena, bridge of spirits, **which was an okay AA action adventure. Transistor was also good!

This is a little bit of a deep cut, but the roguelike add-on to Remnant From the Ashes honestly slaps if you enjoy the core gameplay loop. (The pitch is “Dark Souls with guns,” which is like 70% accurate.) High quality 3rd person gunplay, awesome abilities, fun enemies, wacky builds, beautiful maps.

EDIT. Remnant is on sale for $13 on Steam! A very good deal, esp. with Remnant 2 coming out this year!

Darkest Dungeon is also great if you like oppressive horror vibes.