"Elden Ring Nightreign Reintroduces Dark Souls Bosses, But Lore Fans Should Tread Carefully"

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

Elden Ring Nightreign's inclusion of bosses from both current and previous FromSoftware titles has sparked curiosity among fans. In an interview with Gamespot on February 12, 2025, Nightreign director Junya Ishizaki shed light on why these iconic bosses are making a comeback. Dive in to understand the rationale behind this decision!

Elden Ring Nightreign Explains Why FromSoft Bosses Are Included in the Game

Nightreign Bosses are There for Gameplay Perspective

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

Elden Ring Nightreign not only brings back classic Elden Ring bosses but also reintroduces beloved characters from previous FromSoftware games. While fans might be pondering the lore implications, Ishizaki clarified that the primary motivation for including these bosses is rooted in gameplay enhancement. "The primary reason for these existing bosses in Nightreign is from a gameplay perspective," Ishizaki stated. "With the new structure and style of the game, we needed a diverse range of bosses. We wanted to leverage what we deemed appropriate from our previous titles."

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

Ishizaki emphasized that the decision respects the affection and memories players have for these characters. "We understand that our players have a deep connection with these bosses and their battles. We aimed to integrate them in a way that fits the atmosphere and vibe of Elden Ring Nightreign without heavily impacting the lore." He also noted that reintroducing these bosses adds a fun element to the game. While the lore connections between Elden Ring and other FromSoftware titles might not be strong, fans are encouraged to focus on the primary antagonist, the Night Lord, and its potential ties to the overarching Elden Ring narrative.

Nightreign Bosses from Previous FromSoft Titles

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

So far, two bosses from previous FromSoftware games have been confirmed for Elden Ring Nightreign: the Nameless King from Dark Souls 3 (DS3) and the Centipede Demon from the original Dark Souls (DS). There's also speculation about the inclusion of The Duke’s Dear Freja, a massive two-headed spider from Dark Souls 2.

The Nameless King, the firstborn son of Gwyn, is an optional boss in DS3 known for his challenging combat involving wind and lightning attacks. Located in the Archdragon Peak, he tests players' skills and is often missed due to the sidequests required to unlock his area.

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

The Centipede Demon, originating from the first Dark Souls, is a formidable foe with six centipede heads that spew fireballs. It's believed to have been created following the Witch of Izalith's creation of the Flame of Chaos.

Lastly, the trailer for Nightreign hints at the possible appearance of The Duke’s Dear Freja, suggested by a spider seen in a forested swamp. This spider bears a striking resemblance to those encountered during the boss fight with The Duke’s Dear Freja in Dark Souls 2, speculated to be the pet of the spider-obsessed Duke Tseldora.

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

While integrating these bosses into Elden Ring's narrative might pose challenges due to their existing lore, Ishizaki encourages players to enjoy them for the gameplay experience they offer in Nightreign, rather than overthinking their lore connections.