FromSoftware has solidified its reputation as a premier developer of action RPGs, crafting unforgettable journeys through grimdark realms filled with both horrors and wonders. However, the studio's most enduring legacy is undoubtedly its bosses: formidable, often terrifying adversaries that test players' skills to their limits.
In their upcoming game, Elden Ring Nightreign, FromSoftware is doubling down on this focus. This roguelike-inspired co-op title centers entirely on combat, with each run challenging players against an escalating series of bosses. Notably, the first trailer showcased the return of iconic foes from the Dark Souls series, including the majestic Nameless King.
This article isn't about the toughest bosses; it's a celebration of the greatest boss encounters in FromSoftware's history. We've considered battles from across the "Soulsborne" style games – Elden Ring, Bloodborne, Sekiro, Demon's Souls, and the Dark Souls trilogy. Our evaluation goes beyond mere difficulty, encompassing the music, setting, mechanical complexity, lore significance, and other nuanced elements. Here are our top 25 favorites, ranked by these comprehensive criteria.
Old Monk (Demon's Souls)
The Old Monk stands out for its innovative approach to PvP multiplayer invasions. Instead of a traditional AI-controlled boss, players might face another player controlling the Old Monk. This unique mechanic keeps players on edge, reminding them that enemy players can invade at any moment, even during a boss fight.Old Hero (Demon's Souls)
Old Hero represents a fascinating puzzle-style encounter in FromSoft's library. This blind, ancient warrior relies on sound to detect players, turning the fight into a stealth challenge. While not overly difficult, it sets the stage for later, more esoteric boss designs like Elden Ring's Rennala and Sekiro's Folding Screen Monkeys.Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon (Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Sunken King)
Sinh marks a turning point for dragon fights in FromSoftware's games. Set in a poisonous cavern and accompanied by epic music, this battle feels like a true epic clash, setting the standard for subsequent dragon encounters in the series.Ebrietas, Daughter of the Cosmos (Bloodborne)
Ebrietas embodies Bloodborne's Lovecraftian themes, being a tentacled, winged creature revered by the Healing Church. Her attacks, including cosmic volleys and blood-induced Frenzy, add thematic richness to the fight, making it a standout encounter.Fume Knight (Dark Souls 2)
Fume Knight is renowned for his dual-wielding prowess, combining speed and power with a longsword and a massive Buster Sword-style blade. His challenging yet enjoyable fight encapsulates the best of FromSoft's duel-style encounters.Bayle the Dread (Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree)
The battle against Bayle the Dread is elevated by the presence of NPC ally Igon, whose passionate cries against the dragon add an unforgettable layer of intensity to an already challenging fight.Father Gascoigne (Bloodborne)
Father Gascoigne serves as Bloodborne's proving ground, testing players' grasp of the game's mechanics early on. Learning to use the environment, timing parries, and managing resources are crucial skills honed in this fight.Starscourge Radahn (Elden Ring)
Radahn's battle is a spectacle of scale and spectacle, set on a vast battlefield during a festival. The ability to summon numerous NPC allies adds to the epic feel, culminating in one of Elden Ring's most dramatic moments.Great Grey Wolf Sif (Dark Souls)
Sif's fight is laden with emotional weight, as players must confront Artorias' loyal wolf guarding its master's grave. The encounter is a poignant reminder of the moral ambiguity in FromSoft's worlds.Maliketh, the Black Blade (Elden Ring)
Maliketh's relentless aggression makes him one of the most intense bosses in Soulslike history. His transition to the Black Blade form, with its long combos and surprise attacks, creates a high-stakes battle.Dancer of the Boreal Valley (Dark Souls 3)
The Dancer's visually stunning and technically unique fight features erratic, dance-like movements with curved blades. Her unpredictable animations keep players on their toes, making for a memorable encounter.Genichiro Ashina (Sekiro)
Genichiro's battles, set in a moonlit field and atop Ashina Castle, test players' mastery of Sekiro's parry and deflect mechanics. The iconic fight against his lightning-infused attacks is a highlight of the game.Owl (Father) (Sekiro)
Owl's fight is both emotionally and physically intense, with his lethal gadgets and swift movements challenging players to their limits. The second phase, with his spectral owl, adds a thrilling twist.
Honorable Mention: Armored Core 6
While focused on "Soulsborne" games, we must acknowledge Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon for its thrilling boss fights. AA P07 Balteus, IA-02: Ice Worm, and IB-01: CEL 240 showcase FromSoft's ability to craft cinematic and challenging encounters.
Soul of Cinder (Dark Souls 3)
As the embodiment of every Lord who linked the Flame, Soul of Cinder's unpredictable fighting style and homage to Gwyn's moves in its second phase make it a fitting end to the Dark Souls trilogy.Sister Friede (Dark Souls 3: Ashes of Ariandel)
Sister Friede's three-phase fight is a brutal endurance test, with her relentless aggression and the added challenge of Father Ariandel in the second phase. It's a memorable clash of ice and fire.Orphan of Kos (Bloodborne: The Old Hunters)
The Orphan of Kos is a nightmarish foe known for its speed and unpredictable attacks. Its grotesque appearance and use of its placenta as a weapon make it one of Bloodborne's most terrifying bosses.Malenia, Blade of Miquella (Elden Ring)
Malenia's fight is a defining moment in Elden Ring, challenging players with her two punishing phases and iconic waterfowl dance. Her deep ties to the game's lore add to the battle's significance.Guardian Ape (Sekiro)
The Guardian Ape combines humor with horror, from its comedic flatulence to the shocking second phase where it fights headless. It's a unique and memorable encounter that exemplifies FromSoft's creativity.Knight Artorias (Dark Souls: Artorias of the Abyss)
Artorias' tragic backstory and exhilarating fight make him a standout boss. His rapid attacks and challenging combos test players' skills, making victory feel like a rite of passage.Nameless King (Dark Souls 3)
The Nameless King is a perfect Dark Souls boss, with his fair yet challenging attacks and epic setting atop Archdragon Peak. His fight is a thrilling spectacle, underscored by one of the series' best musical themes.Dragon Slayer Ornstein and Executioner Smough (Dark Souls)
Ornstein and Smough's fight is legendary for its two-on-one challenge and the subsequent power-up of the surviving boss. It set the standard for double boss fights in FromSoftware's games.Ludwig, The Accursed/Holy Blade (Bloodborne: The Old Hunters)
Ludwig's complex fight evolves through numerous attacks, challenging players to embrace Bloodborne's aggressive style. His tragic backstory and iconic Moonlight Great Sword make him a standout character.Slave Knight Gael (Dark Souls 3: The Ringed City)
Gael's battle is a mythic conclusion to the Dark Souls trilogy, with his transformation into a powerful, dark-infused warrior. The epic setting and orchestral score elevate this fight to legendary status.Lady Maria of the Astral Clocktower (Bloodborne: The Old Hunters)
Lady Maria's fight is a technical masterpiece, with her twin swords and blood powers creating an intense duel. The atmospheric setting and her compelling backstory make this a top-tier encounter.Isshin, the Sword Saint (Sekiro)
Isshin's four-phase battle encapsulates everything that makes Sekiro special. His varied techniques and the need for precise parries and deflections create a thrilling, intimate fight that stands as FromSoftware's finest boss encounter.
Our ranking of the top 25 FromSoftware bosses is complete. Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know your picks in the comments. You can also rank these 25 bosses yourself using the IGN Tier List tool below.
### Top 25 FromSoftware Bosses
