Reasons DS2 is my favorite: * It had the 3 best DLCs until Ringed City came along. * Its the longest Souls game. It has the most bosses, and while a lot of them are more like glorified mini-bosses, I still appreciate it. * The first half of the game gives you a lot of freedom in what order you go through areas. You can die to a boss a few times, get frustrated, and switch to a different path completely until you level up some. * I love the areas, and think they have some great variety. It feels like theyre more unique than the other 2 games. Pirate themed wharf. Majestic outdoor Heidis tower. Dragon Aerie. The creepy/mysterious Mansion. Radioactive Back Gulch. Torch-lit shanty-town Gutter. Shrine of Amana is beautiful and eerie. Drangleic Castle in the rain. Sandy crystal bug nest of Brightstone Cove. Jungle-themed ruins.
Pretty much sums up why its my favorite of the series.