10 Dark Souls Bosses We Hope to See in Elden Ring Nightreign

As a devoted fan of Dark Souls, I was thrilled to learn that several iconic bosses from the series are set to return in Elden Ring: Nightreign. While the current lineup of boss battles has its merits, with only six bosses in total, many players, including myself, feel that some pivotal figures from the franchise have been left out.

The roster currently includes bosses like the Dancer of the Boreal Valley, the Nameless King, the Centipede Demon, the Gaping Dragon, the Smelter Demon, and The Duke’s Dear Freja. However, there are numerous notable adversaries that could seamlessly integrate into the game, enriching the experience for players.

Top 10 Bosses That Deserve a Comeback in Nightreign

Here are ten compelling candidates that FromSoftware could consider revamping for their newest installment. These aren’t necessarily the top-ranked bosses, but they have the potential to resonate strongly within the Elden Ring environment.

10. Gravelord Nito

An Enhanced Encounter with Skeletons

Gravelord Nito is an exceptionally engaging encounter in Dark Souls, particularly when tackled solo due to the challenge posed by his minions. A potential revamp in Nightreign could implement faster attack patterns, an increased number of respawning skeletal allies, and enhanced area-of-effect abilities, taking the fight to new heights.

9. Soul of Cinder

A Worthy Addition to Nightreign

Soul of cinder running toward the player in boss fight

Facing the Soul of Cinder, the penultimate boss in Dark Souls 3, presents a thrilling challenge. Drawing inspiration from the Nameless King, this boss’s agile attacks could fit perfectly in Nightreign. Imagine introducing a new phase with unique Elden Ring spells that incorporate bleed effects or dragon incantations, offering players even greater challenges.

8. Darklurker

A Second Chance for Darklurker

The Darklurker’s entrance in Dark Souls 2 was a convoluted process that left some players feeling underwhelmed. However, a fresh design could redeem this boss in Nightreign. Introducing new spells and the ability to spawn additional minions could heighten the intensity of the encounter, including attacks shrouded in darkness, making for an adrenaline-fueled battle.

7. Lud and Zallen, The King’s Pets

Dynamic Duo from Dark Souls 2 DLC

Known for their challenging mechanics, Lud and Zallen could offer an intriguing battle in Nightreign. By enhancing their abilities with unique spell sets and swift attacks, FromSoftware could reignite the tension while also considering Aava’s inclusion to raise the stakes and add layers to the encounter.

6. The Four Kings

A Battle Against All at Once

Dark Souls Close up of the Four Kings Face

The Four Kings battle is notorious for its gripping intensity, allowing additional kings to join the fray based on the player’s speed. Bringing this encounter into Nightreign could introduce the concept of battling all kings simultaneously while creatively utilizing the abyss’s ambiance to enhance the experience.

5. Velstadt, The Royal Aegis

Bringing Back a Formidable Foe

Velstadt embodies the tough mechanics from Dark Souls 2, featuring powerful strikes and devastating AOE attacks. With some thoughtful adjustments and the addition of new dark magic, he could emerge as one of the standout battles in Nightreign, offering both nostalgia and renewed excitement for players.

4. Yhorm The Giant

Engaging the Mighty Giant

Dark Souls 3 Entering Yhorm the Giant Boss Arena

As Elden Ring embraces colossal foes, Yhorm The Giant should undeniably make an appearance. His imposing presence and unique mechanics could innovate the way players engage with large enemies within Nightreign, possibly even acting as a world event that heightens the overall narrative dynamic.

3. Ornstein And Smough

The Legendary Duo’s Return

Ornstein and Smough standing next to each other (Dark Souls)

This iconic duo remains one of the most celebrated boss fights in the Souls series. Their return could be implemented with minimal modifications, possibly introducing unique loot drops for defeating either Ornstein or Smough, thus amplifying the tension and strategy behind the encounter.

2. Knight Artorias And Great Grey Wolf Sif

An Epic Tandem Encounter

The fight between Knight Artorias and his loyal companion, Great Grey Wolf Sif, represents one of the most poignant moments in Dark Souls. Coordinating their combat strategies within Nightreign would create an unforgettable experience for players, filled with emotion and challenge alike.

1. The Pursuer

Relentless Pursuit

Taking the top spot, The Pursuer stands as a prime candidate for a refresh in Nightreign. This boss’s mechanic could introduce an element of tension akin to Margit’s invasions, with players constantly aware of the Pursuer stalking them, creating a layer of urgency and excitement throughout their adventures.

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