Despite my lofty expectations, Nine Sols has easily established itself as one of the standout Souls-like games of 2024. This is particularly impressive given that Red Candle Games, known primarily for its horror titles, has ventured into the metroidvania genre for the first time with this release.
The game excels across multiple dimensions, including narrative, gameplay mechanics, level design, and artistry, all bolstered by an exceptional soundtrack. With numerous high points, Nine Sols presents a compelling case for itself among the finest offerings in its genre. However, the centerpiece of this experience is undoubtedly its combat system, which we will explore in detail through this ranked list of every Nine Sols boss.
10 Kanghui
Annoying Minions
|
Location |
Prison |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Noble Ring |
Typically, boss fights involving minions can be quite frustrating, and that holds true for Kanghui.
During specific phases of the battle, players are left without the ability to inflict damage, disrupting the overall flow of the encounter. While not entirely unenjoyable, Kanghui ranks as the least compelling boss in Nine Sols.
9 Fusion and Nova
Infuriating and Unrewarding
|
Location |
Nobility Hall |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Twin Tao Fruit |
Despite their intriguing concept, Fuxi and Nuwa rank among the most infuriating bosses I’ve encountered in 2024.
Issues with hitboxes and the difficulty of distinguishing projectiles amid similar backgrounds make this encounter particularly challenging. Even with perfect execution, many unpredictable elements may hinder your performance, undermining the combat mechanics of this genre.
8 Goumang
Neither Adds Nor Subtracts
|
Location |
Agricultural Zone |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
None |
While difficulty is not a prerequisite for an enjoyable boss fight, many memorable encounters stem from greater challenges. Unfortunately, Goumang fails to leave a lasting impression.
The lackluster execution feels more akin to battling two regular enemies than facing a true boss. Elements such as settings, attack patterns, and mechanics do not meet the expectations set by other bosses, making this encounter feel less significant.
7 Yanlao
A Fun Laser Show
|
Location |
Warehouse Zone |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Greater Tao Fruit |
Characterized by its entertainment value, the battle with Yanlao exemplifies an enjoyable experience.
While not overly challenging and not reliant heavily on the signature parry mechanic, the fight remains fun to master. As one of the initial encounters, it contributes valuable variety to the gameplay.
6 Xingtian
Exciting Difficulties
|
Location |
Boundless Repository |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
None |
Xingtian stands out as an underrated boss that captures the essence of Nine Sols in both gameplay and narrative.
Located in a confined area, this boss demands precision in every attack, jump, dash, and parry, creating a fair yet challenging experience. The build-up to facing him is remarkably engaging, as players form a connection with Chiyou’s story before confronting his brother.
5 General: Yingzhao
Wonderful Tutorial
|
Location |
Radiant Pagoda |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Herb Catalyst |
Starting with this point, all bosses in Nine Sols are exceptional, with General: Yingzhao delivering an outstanding introduction to the gameplay.
This pivotal boss encounter teaches players the intricacies of the game’s mechanics, emphasizing timing, skill utilization, and spatial awareness. The two stages effectively highlight everything a player needs to master, ensuring that if you conquer this challenge, you are well-equipped for any forthcoming trials.
4 Jiequan
The First Big Challenge
|
Location |
Transmutation Zone |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Greater Tao Fruit |
While Nine Sols maintains a generally balanced difficulty curve, certain spikes—like the fight against Jiequan—test players significantly.
In addition to its location, which is one of the game’s trickiest sections, this clash offers a gratifying blend of challenge and fulfillment, reminiscent of the genre’s most celebrated encounters. Following Yingzhao’s lead, Jiequan presents a thrilling showdown that requires absolute precision for victory.
3 of
Perfect Construction and Rhythm
|
Location |
Ancient Stone Pillar |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Ji’s Hair |
While Ji may not present the same level of difficulty as some others, he exemplifies the idea that not all bosses need to be overwhelmingly challenging to be extraordinary.
His charm lies in the seamless integration of his lore into combat mechanics, reflecting his character’s relationship with fate, arcane arts, and foresight through a beautifully diverse array of attacks, stunning visuals, and enchanting music.
2 Lady Ethereal
A Test of Resilience
|
Location |
Cortex Center |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
Greater Tao Fruit |
Facing Lady Ethereal instills a daunting sense of inevitability, as many players may feel repeatedly defeated, particularly across her three challenging phases.
Yet, once the fight clicks, it transforms into a favorite—providing a rewarding flow state that’s exhilarating and deeply satisfying upon victory. On my successful attempt, achieving nearly perfect combat execution highlighted her brilliance as a boss.
1 Eigong
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Would Be Proud
|
Location |
Research Institute |
|---|---|
|
Reward(s) |
None |
It’s not often that the hardest boss also ranks as the most impressive, but Eigong made a lasting impression—one of the reasons I regard Nine Sols as one of the best indie games of 2024.
Seldom has a boss humbled me so thoroughly since facing Isshin, The Sword Saint in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Her pacing, moveset, choreography, narrative, and overall presentation are flawless, firmly entrenching her in the discussion of the best bosses ever designed.
Despite the hours I invested in this encounter—at one point, fearing I might have to watch the secret ending on YouTube—success in defeating all three phases created a sense of accomplishment like no other.
Leave a Reply