20 Most Satisfying Video Game Boss Battles Since 2000

2. Ornstein And Smough (Dark Souls)

Namco BandaiWhen a game is as notoriously difficult as Dark Souls, it might seem hard to select one boss battle as "the hardest". That's not the case though; Ornstein and Smough are undoubtedly your toughest test as you journey through Lordran. Best of all, they're not even optional; besting them in combat is a major requirement in your bid to complete the main questline. They're located in Anor Londo; a glorious looking city which is one of the toughest zones to conquer in Dark Souls (and that's without including this boss battle in that statement). It's full of pitfalls and traps as well as narrow walkways, huge enemies and bow-wielding knights who delight in knocking you to your demise when you least expect it. Simply getting to Ornstein and Smough's fog gate is a huge achievement; that sense of accomplishment won't last long though. Fighting one boss in Dark Souls is tough; fighting two at the same time is insane. Ornstein (the small dragon knight) is relentless; he'll charge you down and give you little breathing room. Focusing on him is a huge mistake though as Smough (the huge doughball) will sneak up on you and plant his hammer in your back. It's a fight where you need to be on your toes constantly; as only through patience and skill will you be able to empty either one of their health bars. ... before watching the other soak up his dead pal's energy and use it to empower himself. Yep, killing one of the pair will cause the other to go into a "Super" state which fully heals them and makes them even stronger. Smough will gain a lightning element (which causes incredible damage) and Ornstein doubles in size, gaining a near-instant kill move to boot. You can help your chances in this incredibly tough trial by bringing along the NPC Phantom Solaire (he's almost guaranteed to die halfway through though) but even then, victory is in no way a dead cert. Just imagine how sweet that "You Defeated" screen is going to be when it's all over though; cling to that when you're attempting them for the 56th time.