DS3 really nails that balance. Mostly linear but usually has some sort of side option if you need a break from your current wall of a boss. Playable end to end without devoting like 100 hours. It also comes after Bloodborne where From nailed down more fun active combat vs. relying on a shield, and before Elden Ring where they went hard on crazy delayed boss attacks.

These days DS3 is probably my favorite of the series overall.

The first 2 episodes were fine but I really dislike these 8 episode seasons. It’s like they drag a 2 hour movie’s worth of story into 8 30-45 minute episodes.