The Top 7 Soul-Like Bosses That Will Give You A Run for Your Money & Then Some

Just when you think you’ve seen the credits roll on Lies of P, the game throws one last, vicious sucker punch: The Nameless Puppet. This fight is a two-phase nightmare that demands absolute mastery of the game’s mechanics. The first phase is a fast-paced duel that tests your parry timing, but it’s the second phase where the real pain begins. His movements become erratic, his combos are long and punishing, and his attacks hit like a freight train. He’s a relentless final exam that many players have slammed their controllers down over, a truly worthy contender for one of the toughest fights out there.

2. Ren Hayabusa (Nioh 2)

If you’ve played Nioh 2, the name Ren Hayabusa probably sends a shiver down your spine. This guy is less of a boss and more of a walking whirlwind of death. He brings the full Ninja Gaiden moveset into the Nioh universe, complete with teleporting grabs, devastating combos, and ranged attacks that leave you with no room to breathe. Without resorting to cheesy magic or summons, fighting him feels like going up against a high-level PvP god who knows your every move before you do. He’s an incredible, albeit rage-inducing, tribute to his roots.

3. Spawn of Oggdo (Jedi: Survivor)

Don’t let the goofy frog-like appearance fool you. The Spawn of Oggdo from Jedi: Survivor is pure evil, especially when you face the dual-wielding version. On the highest difficulty, this encounter is an exercise in pain. Their unblockable attacks, massive tongues lashing out, and the sheer chaos of managing two of them at once have humbled even the most confident Jedi Masters. One gamer on a forum put it best: “The dual spawn of Oggdo fight… is still one of my best achievements.” It’s a badge of honor earned through sweat and tears.

4. Isshin, the Sword Saint (Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice)

*Okay, I’m cheating a little here since Sekiro is a FromSoft game, but hear me out. The debate rages on whether Sekiro‘s combat system even makes it a “true” Soulslike. It’s a different beast, focusing on posture and parries over dodges and I-frames. Isshin is the culmination of everything Sekiro teaches you. He’s in a four-phase epic battle against a master who pulls out a spear, a sword, and even a freaking gun. He’s considered by many to be one of the most well-designed, fair, and demanding fights in all of gaming. He doesn’t cheat; he just demands perfection.

5. Corrupted Taro (Kena: Bridge of Spirits)

Kena: Bridge of Spirits might look like a charming Pixar movie, but its boss fights can be surprisingly tough. Corrupted Taro is the first major skill check, and he hits like an absolute truck. His move set is aggressive and relentless, forcing you to learn when to dodge, parry, and use your Rot abilities effectively. For many players, enjoying the beautiful scenery, Taro was a sudden, brutal wake-up call that this game wasn’t messing around.

6. The Knight (Hollow Knight)

Wait, a 2D indie game on this list? Absolutely. Hollow Knight is a masterclass in atmospheric world-building and challenging gameplay. The fight against The Knight (in the Godhome expansion) is a pure test of skill. It’s a mirror match where you face a super-powered version of yourself who can use all your own moves against you. It’s fast, frantic, and requires pixel-perfect platforming and combat timing. This battle is a beautiful, agonizing duel that proves difficulty isn’t limited to 3D spaces.

7. The Radiance (Hollow Knight)

If the Knight was the test, the Radiance is the final, mind-breaking exam. As the true final boss of Hollow Knight, this moth god throws everything at you: screen-filling beams of light, swords raining from the sky, and platforms you have to navigate while dodging it all. It’s a bullet-hell platformer mixed with the precise combat the game is known for. The sheer feeling of relief and accomplishment upon finally defeating her is something that stays with you long after the credits roll.

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