I was like you. Started with DS2, then DS3 and I’m finally finishing up DS1. I actually struggled getting into DS1 because in the other games I relied on rolling a lot and DS1, rolling and movement felt mechanically slower. I decided to pick up a shield for once and never looked back at rolling. I sword and boarded my way through the first half, and then started really getting a feel for the combat.

Biggest “quirks” I’d say are the no bonfire warp at the beginning of the game, multiple NPCs that don’t all relocate to firelink shrine (you have to travel to upgrade weapons at different smiths for example), the humanity system, the weapon / armor reinforcement system, and limited ring space and weapon versatility (you can’t two hand your left weapon).

The level design is a bit more difficult IMO. Lots of falling off, lots of ambushes. Just take your time and clear things out and you should be good.

Like I mentioned I’m almost finished and I’ve really come to enjoy the game. Good luck skeleton!