Elden Ring has more than 200 bosses who are waiting to overwhelm you. And then, take the life out of you. Over, and over again. In the midst of it all, you come across bosses who are Demigods themselves and pose a much higher threat than usual. But, do you know what’s worse than going against them? Finding out their story, only to wish for a better ending.
These bosses have been in the Lands Between for a while now, and they’ve seen the tides of war and curse shift against them. Not only are they tough to go against, but also leave you feeling with a sense of guilt and, ‘all that could have been‘.
Note: Spoilers for Elden Ring
Malenia, Blade of Miquella already had a tough life in Elden Ring
Even if you’re new to the world of Elden Ring, you’re well aware of the rich history the Lands Between hold. However, the past wasn’t as kind to Malenia, a Demigod and a Shardbearer who was cursed with Scarlet Rot running through her veins. Limb by limb, she lost herself to the disease that also took away her eyesight and a vision for a hopeful tomorrow.
In an attempt to save her brother and keep the family intact, Malenia found herself stuck and waiting until life would slowly fade away. When the Tarnished does cross paths with her, they realize that the encounter feels a little off. This is because it’s highly likely that Malenia has lost her sense of self, and her swordsmanship is the only thing that keeps her pride intact.
Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon was left heartbroken and purposeless
One of the earliest bosses you fight in Elden Ring is Renalla, a former champion of the Lunar arts who wields magic. Not only is she a deadly foe to go against, but there’s a subtle charm about her that leaves you in confusion. You see, she’s sort of locked up in her own chambers because she’s slowly going mad. She tries to rebirth and reshape the students around her, in an attempt to regain her purpose.
Originally, she was married to Radagon, who betrayed her for Marika. The broken marriage and grief didn’t sit well with her, and Rennala found herself in the shackles of a community that didn’t truly appreciate her anymore. After facing defeat in a fight against you, she becomes an NPC who can help you out. But, at what cost?
Starscourge Radahn was a brilliant champion driven into madness
The champion himself is a boss you’ll eventually go against in Elden Ring, and it’s no easy task. Radahn has an interesting relationship with the stars and gravity; making use of it in his moveset. However, his tragic story and ultimate defeat against the Tarnished make you feel bad for him, regardless of how much pain he brings you.
Radahn was strong enough to stand by himself against Malenia, and there was so distinct winner… except, Radahn started losing his mind. Why? Well, it’s likely that Malenia’s Scarlet Rot affected him too, slowly taking hold of his senses. In the end, Radahn couldn’t see right from wrong, nor great from terrible. His tragic tale somehow ends with the Tarnished besting him in battle.
Godrick The Grafted – did he truly deserve the hate?
From the very beginning, players in Elden Ring quickly realize that the first ‘tough‘ boss they go against is Godrick. He uses grafting as a means to better himself and his actions, but only succeeds at building a reputation that drives everyone away. Including the very people who were meant to be with him.
His true weakness came from his heritage. Being the least powerful child of Elden Lord Godfrey and Queen Marika. Naturally, Godrick felt out of place and did everything he could to feel more powerful. Unfortunately, this did little for his ego, and almost nothing for his legacy. Especially after the Tarnished defeats them.
In retrospect, the victory against these bosses may feel great at the moment but makes you wonder how these characters would have returned, if not for the Shattering and everything else that happened in Elden Ring.
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