I got to DS2 after ER, DS1, and DeS in that order, something about it compelled me to go through it. Much harder actual level design than any of the others, maybe not as strong bosses, but those were never the sole focus (something I think DS3 heavily misunderstood). Also the most integrated multiplayer, second most diverse build variety both PvE and PvP, and basic de-gameifying changes like no free I-frames on fog doors (honestly really like this change, it leans more on the actual level design since you can't just wiggle past things for the free I-frame door. God bless this game consistently humbling "souls vets"