Elden Ring Nightreign: Why Players Are Finding the Second Enhanced Boss Easier Than the First
The Evolution of Boss Battles in Elden Ring Nightreign
Nearly a month after its release, Elden Ring’s Nightreign expansion continues to challenge players with its revamped boss encounters. FromSoftware has been rolling out enhanced versions of iconic bosses, raising the stakes and testing players’ skills. The first boss to receive this treatment, Gaping Jaw, proved to be an intimidating foe, with many players struggling to overcome its ferocity. However, the second enhanced boss, the Everdark Sovereign known as the Darkdrift Knight, seems to pose less of a threat so far.
Introducing Fulghor, the Nightglow Champion
The latest addition to the boss roster is Fulghor, the Champion of the Nightglow. To face him, players must first defeat the base-level Darkdrift Knight expedition. This battle remains available until the next Everdark Sovereign is introduced, replacing the current foe. Notably, the heavily armored centaur replaced the earlier, more unpredictable Gaping Jaw fight, which was no easy feat either.
Why Is the Second Boss Easier for Players?
Unlike the initial Gaping Jaw encounter, which was marked by flashy, explosive moves and surprise attacks, players report that Fulghor is comparatively more manageable. While he still offers a significant challenge, most players find him less overwhelming. Many note that, despite the boss’s still formidable presence, they’re able to defeat him more efficiently and with less frustration.
Gameplay Dynamics and Player Reactions
- First attempts: Many players have commented that their initial fights with Fulghor aren’t as tough as the juiced-up Gaping Jaw. One Reddit user shared, “First try, not even close to as hard as juiced-up Gaping Jaw.”
- Boss mechanics: Fulghor begins the fight with a venomous arm, but during his mid-fight phase, he ascends into the sky, shedding his normal arm to unleash a series of explosive, shiny attacks. These moves, while powerful, are easier to read compared to Gaping Jaw’s storm and lightning frenzy.
Player Opinions on Fight Complexity and Fun
Some players appreciate the more subdued but fun nature of Fulghor’s fight. A Reddit user remarked, “I feel as though Fulghor is easier, but it’s just more fun to do. Chasing a boss for 20 minutes to land a few hits gets boring.” Others felt that Fulghor could have been more challenging or had more dazzling moves but still enjoyed repeating the fight more than they did with Adel, the previous boss.
Contrasting Boss Styles
While some players enjoy Fulghor’s straightforward approach, others prefer the spectacle of Adel. The latter featured flashy attacks like tornadoes that required precise jumps into the eye of the storm, creating a more dynamic and thought-provoking encounter. Conversely, Fulghor’s mechanics are easier to grasp on the first try, making the fight feel less chaotic but still engaging.
Technical Challenges and Server Issues
Despite the gameplay improvements, some players faced technical hurdles. Reports of server disconnections and lag around the time of Fulghor’s release have been common. These issues can hinder even the most prepared players from completing the fight smoothly.
Looking Ahead: More Enhanced Bosses on the Horizon
For those eager to test their skills further, FromSoftware has announced that more enhanced bosses are on the way. A Sentient Pest version of the Everdark Sovereign is expected to arrive soon, and other bosses will also receive their own upgraded versions over time. This ongoing content update promises to keep the challenge fresh for dedicated players.
Helpful Resources for Nightreign Boss Battles
If you’re aiming to conquer all eight Nightlord bosses or unlock new classes like the Nightfarer, there are plenty of guides available. These include tips for defeating specific foes, unlocking the Revenant and the Duchess, and changing characters to suit your playstyle.
Eric is a freelance writer for IGN.
Alex "Pixel" Petrov
Gaming journalist & industry insider. Covers the latest game releases, updates, and behind-the-scenes dev stories. Knows every Easter egg, patch note, and upcoming title worth hyping. Always gaming, always analyzing.