Every Soulsborne Final Boss, Ranked

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The conclusion of a video game is an essential aspect, significantly impacting the overall immersive journey, since it shapes both the storyline’s dramatic resolution and the final gaming dynamics.

Therefore, FromSoftware is highly respected within the gaming community due to their exceptional ability to conclude games’ storylines, a skill that sets them apart from many other game developers.

Regarding this aspect, the studio has consistently delivered an exceptionally high level of quality, providing us with unforgettable experiences that frequently stand out as the finest moments within each series installment.

Over the past fifteen years, the developer has provided us with memorable and legendary battles that have left a lasting impression. To express my gratitude, I’ve put together a list highlighting each Soulsborne final boss, ranked in order of preference.

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To show my appreciation for the incredible battles they’ve given us over the past 15 years, I’ve compiled a list that ranks every Soulsborne final boss.

7. Nashandra

Dark Souls 2

Whenever I discuss Dark Souls 2, it feels as though I’m constantly repeating myself, but let me make it clear – even when I express criticism, I believe it’s a true masterpiece in the gaming world.

In this scenario, the drawback concerns the final boss since it’s undeniably the least powerful among all the series characters. Although Nashandra boasts an intriguing backstory, her battle encounters are surprisingly underwhelming.

In a battle that hardly gets started, with minimal aggression, significant pauses, and ample chances for harm without retaliation, the fight is effectively over. However, it shows promise initially, yet this promise rapidly deteriorates because of its poor implementation.

The visual appeal of Nashandra is truly remarkable, ranking among the top designs within the entire trilogy. Regrettably, it falls short in most areas as it’s not challenging enough.

6. Old King Allant

Demon’s Souls

As a devoted fan, I can confidently say that despite Old King Allant not posing too much trouble, the final boss in Demon’s Souls truly lives up to its expectations.

Compared to bosses in other games, it may not seem impressive, but for a first final boss in a Souls game, it’s genuinely exceptional.

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In the broader context of gaming, it might not stand out significantly, but as the initial final boss in a Souls game, it’s truly remarkable.

The swiftness of its assaults, combined with the elegance of its combination moves, creates an incredibly film-like experience that stands out in this game. This is particularly true due to the breathtaking wind effects that are part of the battle.

The speed and finesse of its attacks, as well as the smoothness of its combos, make for a highly cinematic fight that sets it apart within the game, especially with the stunning wind effects that come along with the fight.

In addition to its awe-inspiring soundtrack, distinctive visuals, and challenging nature that was quite demanding in its era, it’s worth noting that Old King Allant deserves more recognition from the gaming community for being such an outstanding boss.

5. Radagon & Elden Beast

Elden Ring

It’s widely acknowledged that Elden Ring ranks among the top RPGs from the past ten years. However, opinions are divided when it comes to evaluating the quality of its final adversary.

Over time, I’ve found myself immersed in this captivating world of gaming countless times, experimenting with various character builds. And let me tell you, Radagon and Elden Beast have proven themselves to be a powerhouse duo that, quite frankly, doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.

Radagon and the Elden Beast, each boasting unique and fast-paced combat styles, exhibit individual brilliance while also complementing each other remarkably. On a narrative standpoint, they offer a striking contrast.

Radagon and the Elden Beast are great on their own due to their distinct attack patterns, but they’re even better together because of their differences in storyline.

In terms of grandeur comparable to the vast world of Elden Ring, every necessary aspect was flawlessly incorporated, resulting in a battle experience that resonates as magnificent across all its facets.

Despite not fitting the standard of a humanoid final boss and potentially adding to its unfavorable aspects, it doesn’t diminish the remarkable gameplay experience or, most importantly, the breathtaking audio-visual presentation it offers.

4. Gwyn, Lord of Cinder

Dark Souls

Boasting one of the most memorable themes among all games, the formidable boss character known as Gwyn, the Lord of Cinders, from Dark Souls, represents far more than just a collection of components.

Beyond his challenges, there’s an unmatched grandeur that envelops the king of Lordran, making him appear both formidable and paradoxical. The surroundings, the path leading to him, and the tales shared by every character contribute to this intriguing depiction.

Engaging with him within the Kiln of the First Flame, hearing the melodies that echo his genuine status at the moment, and uncovering the loop we’re stuck in, which seems to be endless or purposeless, can be described as experiencing the ultimate gaming experience.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that if it weren’t for the fact that he’s only the second final boss created by FromSoftware using their signature formula, which makes his gameplay challenging, he would undoubtedly take the top spot. However, when it comes to the depth of his lore and the unique sensations he offers, he’s in a class of his own.

3. Soul of Cinder

Dark Souls 3

Dark Souls 3 pays homage to the trilogy’s fans in a remarkable way, especially when you encounter the ‘Soul of Cinder’.

The meeting with all the undead who, like us in previous installments, were involved in the cycle of fire and darkness is one of the most memorable events in the series.

Experiencing a transformation from confronting someone similar to us to observing Gwyn’s spirit linger and inhabit Soul of Cinder’s hollow form after being defeated, replicating his famous moves, grips, abilities, and music, ranks as one of the most awe-inspiring instances in video game history.

The character, Soul of Cinder, is brimming with nods to fans, yet it’s executed with such intelligence, heartfelt emotion, and grasp of the game’s world that it’s hard not to regard it as one of the finest bosses in all Soulsborne series.

2. Gehrman, The First Hunter

Bloodborne

The core gameplay of Bloodborne lacks consistency in terms of boss battles compared to the DLC, with the overall quality not being as impressive without additional content.

Yet, when you arrive at the climactic battle, you can’t avoid being utterly astonished by the immense amount of magic, emotion, and sorrow that accompanies fighting against Gehrman, the Initial Hunter.

In this battle, everything that FromSoftware does exceptionally well – rapid, expertly coordinated combat, unforgettable soundtracks, and awe-inspiring arenas – harmoniously comes together, creating an experience you’ll remember forever.

The dignity in a battle where both contestants wield identical weapons is unmatched, as it contrasts the raw yet elegant struggle against the stunningly beautiful white blossoms that symbolize respect for all the Hunters who, like us, have traversed this path.

Experiencing the thrill of conquering Gehrman and realizing that you’ve just witnessed one of the best video games ever made as the credits unfold is a testament to greatness, making a second-place ranking even more commendable.

1. Isshin, the Sword Saint

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

In its entire gameplay, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice consistently challenges you with bosses so impressive in quality and difficulty, that by the time you reach the final boss, you might wonder if there could ever be a greater challenge ahead.

Later, when you meet ‘Isshin, the Sword Saint’, you understand that you’ve barely scratched the surface as the most thrilling, devilishly difficult, and enjoyable battle of the game has been reserved until the end.

Calling this notable opponent an ideal boss might not be too much of a stretch, given their qualities that make such interactions captivating.

A strategy with intricate and surprising maneuvers, requiring constant adjustments, a setting that evolves and impacts the battle, a melody that sends shivers down your spine… It excels in everything, even the tiniest aspects.

To be straightforward, I could interchangeably choose between Isshin and Gehrman as they are both exceptional battles, but for this playthrough, I prefer to highlight the excellence of what is likely FromSoftware’s finest creation, which is none other than Isshin.

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2025-04-01 16:40