Dark Souls II features gameplay mechanics similar to its predecessor; co-director Tomohiro Shibuya has stated that he has no intention of changing the controls. Covenants, a feature in Dark Souls that allowed the player to align with different factions, are making a reappearance, though they will be easier to understand and more accessible to the player. The game world is going to be roughly twice the size of Dark Souls with the beginning of the game made more accessible to newcomers. Tanimura also confirmed that the game will retain the challenging gameplay known to the series, "We do not plan on having an Easy Mode since we are creating this game with a thought that challenge and difficulty are core elements of the game.”

The development team has cited utilizing a more powerful graphics engine for the sequel that is currently being showcased in gameplay trailers. Gameplay videos have shown several new features, including deflecting weapons in mid-air, destructible environments, optional bosses that remain docile until antagonized by the player, among other features. New challenges, adding to the series' documented difficulty level, have also been shown. The game will feature a more advanced AI system that allows enemies to react to a wider range of actions by the player.

Edit - and if you get stuck on the first boss you can join Screeling in being a pansy

That's okay, man, you have 5 months! Enjoy the game, the next one is going to be much harder.

If you didn't start with the Master Key you should probably reroll and do that

Edit - and if you get stuck on the first boss you can join Screeling in being a pansy

If you want to give yourself one of the tougher challenges in the game, kill Smough first. Ornstein's soul will let you make the only spear in game with scaling lightning damage, and you'll also be able to pick up a ring after the fight that you can't get any other way.

I am over SL 100 now and somewhere around 55 hours, apparently ~65% through, game is destroying my life. What day is it?