The conclusion of a video game is a pivotal aspect of its interactive journey, as it marks both the narrative and gameplay climax. FromSoftware has garnered immense admiration from the gaming community for their exceptional ability to craft unforgettable endings, distinguishing themselves from other game developers.
While there may be occasional drawbacks, the studio consistently delivers high-quality finales, offering players memorable confrontations that are often regarded as the highlights of their respective series. For over 15 years, FromSoftware has gifted players with iconic battles, prompting a heartfelt tribute in the form of a ranking of every Soulsborne final boss.
7 Nashandra
Dark Souls II
Although I often reiterate my appreciation for Dark Souls II as a masterpiece despite its criticisms, I must address its final boss. Strikingly underwhelming in gameplay, Nashandra is arguably the weakest final boss in the franchise.
While rich in lore, the combat lacks depth, featuring few attacks and a sluggish pace, allowing players to exploit numerous openings without consequence. This culminates in a fight that concludes far too quickly. Although aesthetically stunning—offering one of the best designs in the trilogy—Nashandra ultimately leaves much to be desired across various facets.
6 Old King Allant
Demon’s Souls
While Old King Allant may not pose a significant challenge, he fulfills the expectations of a final boss in Demon’s Souls. Though it may fall short compared to other games’ end battles, it remains a commendable first final boss within the Souls series.
The rapid strike patterns and elegant combos lend the encounter a cinematic quality that feels distinct, particularly with the captivating wind effects that enhance its presentation. Coupled with a remarkable soundtrack and a challenging experience for its era, Old King Allant deserves greater recognition for his impressive design and gameplay.
5 Radagon & Elden Beast
Ring of Fire
Widely regarded as one of the top RPGs of the past decade, Elden Ring’s final boss has sparked varied opinions. After playing the game multiple times with different character builds, I’ve concluded that Radagon and Elden Beast are an exceptional duo that often goes underestimated.
Radagon’s intricate and rapid attack patterns, paired with the Elden Beast’s magical flair and vivid visual effects, create a harmonious balance between the two, enhancing their thematic contrasts. In the context of a game as expansive as Elden Ring, they meet the criteria for a climactic battle, ensuring combat that feels grandiose in every respect.
4 Gwyn, Lord of Cinder
Dark Souls
With a legendary theme that resonates through gaming history, Gwyn, Lord of Cinder represents far more than merely being a formidable opponent.
The atmosphere surrounding him—the arena, the preceding area, and the narratives shared by various characters—culminate to form an imposing figure that embodies contradiction. Battling him in the Kiln of the First Flame, accompanied by music that mirrors the poignant nature of his existence, underscores the cyclical, inexorable fate that binds both player and boss, representing a pinnacle moment in gaming.
3 Soul of Cinder
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III stands as a heartfelt tribute to fans of the series, epitomized in the encounter with Soul of Cinder. This final boss, representing the amalgamation of all those who have treaded the path of fire and darkness, ranks among the most significant foes in gaming.
The fight transitions from facing an opponent similar to us to confronting the essence of Gwyn within the Soul of Cinder, replicating his iconic moves and music—a brilliantly executed homage. This encounter, laden with fan service yet crafted with nuance and love for the game’s lore, solidifies the Soul of Cinder’s place as one of the greatest bosses in the Soulsborne universe.
2 Gehrman, The First Hunter
Bloodborne
Though Bloodborne’s base game has its drawbacks in terms of boss consistency, the final showdown with Gehrman, The First Hunter is nothing short of breathtaking, infused with magic, emotion, and palpable tragedy.
This confrontation perfectly encapsulates what FromSoftware does best: fast-paced, impeccably orchestrated combat, an unforgettable soundtrack, and an awe-inspiring arena. The honor of engaging in a duel where both participants share equal tools enhances the memorable nature of this battle, as it contrasts the raw beauty of the fight against the somber backdrop of the white flowers—a tribute to fallen Hunters.
1 Isshin, the Sword Saint
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Throughout its narrative, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice acclimates players to a level of boss quality and challenge that raises expectations for the final confrontation. Upon facing Isshin, the Sword Saint, it becomes evident that this battle surpasses all prior encounters.
Labeling Isshin as the ultimate boss is not an exaggeration; he encompasses all the elements that make these encounters compelling—delicate and predictable attack patterns, multifaceted phases demanding tactical adaptation, and a dynamic environment enhancing the experience, all underscored by a haunting score.No detail is overlooked.
While I could easily swap Isshin with Gehrman at any moment due to their exceptional quality, I choose to highlight Isshin as possibly the best boss FromSoftware has ever created.
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