Fast-Tracking through Dark Souls III: How to Defeat All Bosses

26 December 2024

If there’s one thing Dark Souls III players know, it’s this: the game doesn’t hold your hand. It throws you into a brutal, punishing world filled with monstrous bosses that won’t hesitate to crush you into the dirt. But hey, that’s half the fun, right? Whether you're a first-time Ashen One or a seasoned soul farmer keen on a fresh playthrough, this guide will walk you step-by-step through every boss in Dark Souls III. Grab your Estus Flask—you’re going to need it.

1. Iudex Gundyr (The Warm-Up)

Let’s be real: Gundyr is less of a boss and more of a check-in to see if you know where your attack button is. But don’t underestimate him—his second phase can catch new players off guard.

Tips to Win:

- Phase 1: Circle-strafe like you’re dancing around an awkward party guest. Stick to his left side, wait for him to slam his halberd, and punish him with a couple of light attacks. Don’t get too greedy—this is Dark Souls III, not Dynasty Warriors.
- Phase 2: When he mutates into a tentacle monster from your nightmares, switch to a defensive approach. Wait for his attacks to finish, then counter with a hit or two.

Pro Tip:

If you're struggling (no shame in that), grind out a few enemies near the Firelink Shrine to level up before taking him on again. Early-game power-ups can make a world of difference.

2. Vordt of the Boreal Valley (Frosty Boi)

Vordt might look intimidating (a frost-covered armored beast on all fours?), but he’s easier than your ex’s excuses. His attacks are slow and predictable if you keep your cool.

Tips to Win:

- Stay under his belly. Seriously, his attacks will fly right over you if you hug his legs.
- Watch out for his frost breath in Phase 2. Sprint sideways like a madman to avoid getting smacked by the ice damage and frostbite status.

Pro Tip:

Equip a fire-based weapon or use Firebombs to deal extra damage. Frost monsters hate fire—basic RPG logic.

3. Curse-rotted Greatwood (The Tree That Fights Back)

Ah, the Greatwood. Looks like an ordinary tree, right? Wrong. This guy has pus-filled sacs (yes, it’s gross) that you need to pop like oversized zits to win. Welcome to the Dark Souls version of gardening.

Tips to Win:

- Aim for the weak spots (those disgusting sacs). Hitting the regular parts of the tree does little to no damage.
- Watch out for when he body-slams the ground—circle away when he leans back.
- In Phase 2, you’ll drop into a new arena. Don't panic. Dodge his new sweeping arm attacks and keep aiming for those sacs.

4. Abyss Watchers (Edge-Lords Assemble)

These guys could star in their own emo rock band. The Abyss Watchers fight like skilled duelists, but once you understand their rhythms, they’re beatable.

Tips to Win:

- During Phase 1, focus on the main watcher (the one with the red eyes). Ignore the others unless they start ganging up on you.
- In Phase 2, stay aggressive. Circle around him, dodge his flaming attacks, and don’t let him chain combos on you.

Pro Tip:

Summoning a phantom or NPC helper for this fight can make it WAY easier. Teamwork makes the dream work.

5. Pontiff Sulyvahn (The Real Skill Check)

This is where the game says, “Oh, you thought we were going easy on you? Think again.” Pontiff is fast, aggressive, and honestly, a bit of a jerk.

Tips to Win:

- Pontiff’s combos are long, so learn to dodge-roll patiently. Don’t immediately roll after his first swing.
- In Phase 2, he summons a spectral clone. Focus on the real Pontiff and don’t let the clone distract you too much.
- Always keep an eye on your stamina. Running out mid-fight is a death sentence.

Pro Tip:

Buff your weapon with Lightning or Fire, since Pontiff is weak to these elements.

6. Aldrich, Devourer of Gods (Arrow Barrage Fanatic)

Aldrich is part eldritch abomination, part wannabe Legolas with his freaky arrow storms.

Tips to Win:

- When he shoots his arrow barrage in Phase 2, sprint like your life depends on it (because it does). Run in wide circles to avoid getting turned into a pincushion.
- Stick to his back and sides to avoid most of his attacks. He has a tendency to teleport, so be ready to chase him down.

Pro Tip:

Use magic resistance buffs or gear if you have them—his attacks deal a lot of magic damage.

7. Lorian and Lothric (The Twin Trouble)

A two-for-one boss fight sounds like a deal, right? Not here. These brothers are a serious test of endurance.

Tips to Win:

- Focus on Lorian (the big knight) first. Lothric will revive him until he’s dealt with permanently.
- Dodge to the side when Lorian teleports. His sword slashes are deadly but predictable.
- Once Lorian is down, rush Lothric and hit him hard. Don’t give him any breathing room.

Pro Tip:

Bringing a ranged weapon or spells can help chip away at Lothric when he keeps his distance.

8. Soul of Cinder (The Grand Finale)

The final boss. The culmination of all your efforts. Soul of Cinder feels like a mash-up of several bosses you’ve fought before, so be ready for a wild ride.

Tips to Win:

- His moveset changes based on his weapon, so study his attacks and adapt your strategy accordingly.
- Phase 2 introduces Gwyn’s iconic flaming sword attacks. They’re faster and hit harder, so focus on dodging first, attacking later.

Pro Tip:

This fight is a marathon, not a sprint. Play patiently, manage your Estus Flasks, and don’t lose your cool.

Bonus: Nameless King (The King of Pain)

If you’re up for a challenge, Nameless King in the optional Archdragon Peak area is your guy. This dude is no joke—he’s widely regarded as one of the toughest bosses in the franchise.

Tips to Win:

- Phase 1 is all about dodging his dragon’s fire and lightning attacks. Focus on the dragon’s head for max damage.
- In Phase 2, Nameless King fights like a god-tier duelist. Learn his delayed attack patterns and punish him when he finishes combos.

Pro Tip:

Max out your lightning resistance before this fight, and consider summoning help (don’t feel bad—it’s a legit strategy).

Final Words

And there you have it: a comprehensive (but hopefully not too overwhelming) guide to tackling all the bosses in Dark Souls III. Will you die a lot? Absolutely—this isn’t a cakewalk. But with some patience, practice, and maybe a few rage-quits along the way, you’ll emerge victorious and feel like a total champion. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and show those bosses who’s boss.