Elden Ring Nightreign Brings Dark Souls Bosses Back, Just Don't Think Too Hard About the Lore Implications

Elden Ring Nightreign's bosses blend familiar faces from previous FromSoftware titles with new creations. The game director, Junya Ishizaki, recently shed light on this intriguing choice.

Elden Ring Nightreign: A Gameplay-Focused Approach to Boss Selection

Gameplay Takes Center Stage

Nightreign features a compelling mix of classic Elden Ring bosses and returning favorites from FromSoftware's past. While lore implications might spring to mind for dedicated fans, Ishizaki clarified the reasoning behind this selection in a Gamespot interview on February 12, 2025.

He emphasized that the inclusion of these bosses is primarily driven by gameplay considerations. "The primary reason for these existing bosses in Nightreign is from a gameplay perspective," Ishizaki explained. "With the new structure and style of this game, we needed a diverse boss roster. To achieve this, we leveraged assets from our previous titles where appropriate."

He further added, "We understand our players' affection for these characters and their battles. We didn't want to overly complicate the lore. We aimed to ensure they fit seamlessly within Nightreign's atmosphere and feel."

Ishizaki also highlighted the inherent "fun" in reintroducing these beloved bosses. While a direct lore connection between Elden Ring and other FromSoftware games might be tenuous, players are encouraged to focus on the primary antagonist, the Night Lord, and its potential significance within the overarching Elden Ring narrative.

Familiar Faces from FromSoftware's Past

Currently, two returning bosses are confirmed: the Nameless King from Dark Souls 3 (DS3) and the Centipede Demon from Dark Souls (DS). Speculation also points towards the inclusion of The Duke's Dear Freja, a massive, two-headed spider.

The Nameless King, Gwyn's firstborn son, is an optional, notoriously challenging boss in DS3. His mastery of wind and lightning makes him a formidable opponent, and his location, Archdragon Peak, is easily missed without completing associated side quests.

The Centipede Demon, a six-headed monstrosity from the original Dark Souls, unleashes fiery destruction. Lore suggests its origins lie in the aftermath of the Witch of Izalith's creation of the Flame of Chaos.

Finally, Nightreign's trailer hints at The Duke's Dear Freja's presence through a glimpse of a large spider in a swampy forest, strongly resembling the pet of Duke Tseldora from Dark Souls 2.

While integrating these bosses into Elden Ring's established lore might prove challenging, Ishizaki's emphasis on gameplay suggests that overthinking the narrative connections might detract from the overall experience. Enjoy the battles for what they are: exciting encounters designed for thrilling gameplay.