Traditionally, the final boss in video games serves as the climax of the player’s journey. However, some titles offer unique mechanics that allow players to avoid these climactic confrontations altogether. This phenomenon is quite rare yet intriguing, presenting a distinct approach to storytelling in gaming.
In this article, we will explore a selection of games that feature optional final bosses. These titles permit players to skip the final showdown, whether by choice or through particular circumstances. The games highlighted span various genres and include multiple endings, allowing for diverse player experiences.
8.The Witcher 2
Let Letho Live
The Witcher 2 presents players with significant choices that affect the storyline, particularly during the confrontational dialogue with Letho, the game’s antagonist. Rather than engaging in combat, players can opt to spare Letho’s life, acknowledging that he may merely be a pawn in a larger game of power.
Choosing this path not only concludes the game peacefully but also allows players to encounter Letho again in The Witcher 3, emphasizing the game’s complex narrative woven through choices.
7.Bloodborne
The Moon Presence Awaits
In the haunting and atmospheric world of Bloodborne, many players may conclude their experience by defeating Gehrman, the first final boss. However, those who delve deeper into the game and collect various items have the opportunity to face the true final boss—the Moon Presence.
Defeating this formidable foe unveils the game’s genuine ending, rewarding dedicated players with a richer narrative and a unique challenge that is often reserved for completionists.
6.Nier Automata
False Endings
Nier Automata deftly weaves multiple playthroughs into its narrative. After battling Eve, many players may believe they have reached the conclusion, but that is a misconception.
After completing a second playthrough as 9S, players can embark on a climactic third playthrough where they face choices that lead to exhilarating confrontations against significant foes. This finale serves as the ultimate test, providing a compelling culmination to the player’s journey.
5.Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
Press the Button
In Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, players might be caught off guard, realizing they have reached the final boss when facing Marchenko. Interestingly, there’s an alternate way to conclude the game without engaging in direct combat.
By acquiring Marchenko’s Kill Switch earlier in the game, players can utilize this item during the encounter—resulting in an instant defeat of the antagonist, showcasing the options available for strategic players.
4.Axe
The Sword Saint Won’t Wait
Sekiro invites players into its layered storytelling and challenge. Although the penultimate encounter is with Isshin, the titular Sword Saint, players can choose a different path altogether by opting for the Shura ending.
This approach requires only a few critical battles, skipping the final struggle while still completing the game’s narrative—a testament to the game’s emphasis on choice.
3.Lies of P
Do You Want Your Freedom?
Lies of P incorporates narrative choices reminiscent of FromSoftware’s previous works. The game’s conclusion hinges on a pivotal decision regarding Gepetto’s request for P’s heart. Opting to deny him leads to a challenging encounter with the Nameless Puppet, the toughest boss in the game.
Conversely, accepting Gepetto’s offer reveals a chilling narrative twist while bypassing the final boss—an engaging exploration of themes surrounding sacrifice and identity.
2.Mass Effect
Saren Can Be Broken
Mass Effect masterfully incorporates choice into its gameplay, particularly evident in the first installment. During a climactic moment, players can circumvent the anticipated battle with Saren by utilizing dialogue choices based on previous interactions.
Convincing Saren to take his own life offers a dramatic yet poignant resolution that underscores the series’ focus on moral complexity and player agency.
1.Dragon’s Dogma
Take the Deal
In Dragon’s Dogma, players share in a compelling narrative that often emphasizes combat. At the end, the player faces Grigori the Dragon, who presents a choice—to battle or to strike a deal.
Accepting the deal results in a significant choice that allows for an alternate ending while entirely bypassing the final boss fight. This aspect highlights the game’s complexity and the weight of player decisions.
Leave a Reply