I agree with this. Theres something about the early Fromsoft games where they become pretty easy and rhythmic once you figure out how they tick. Parrying was a lot easier, and backstab fishing always works. When coupled with the great sound design and quiet atmosphere while in the open world, its very satisfying.

I also throw Hollowknight in that category of games that are a headache the first time around but relaxing on the second play thru. Maybe Ori as well

100% agree. There's something mechanistic about the gameplay that's really relaxing, and the continuous world without any jumps or loading screens really makes it feel organic. Plus, you die over and over so many times on your first playthrough that you get the entire map burned into your memory.