The Nightlords of Nightreign are here to remind you that no matter how good you think you are at the game, they’re better. These bosses are the big, bad wolves of Nightreign, each one stronger and more frustrating than the last. Let’s face it, we’ve all entertained the thought of launching our controllers through the window after a particularly crushing defeat. Fear not—we’re here to help (sort of). Here’s our ranking of the top 8 Nightlords from “mildly annoying” to “how is this even fair” levels of pain. Spoilers ahead!

8. Caligo, Miasma of Night

Source: Mod Server’s video New Everdark Caligo, Miasma of Night Boss Fight (Fissure in the Fog) | Eldren Ring Nightreign

A dragon and frostbite damage? Really?! Because clearly, dodging fiery death wasn’t hard enough already. Caligo moves with all the grace of a murderous ballet dancer, and every swipe of its massive claws reminds you why “git gud” is less of a meme and more of a life motto for Elden Ring players. Plus, unless your fire damage is on point, you might as well kiss your ambition of victory goodbye.

7. Gladius, Beast of Night

Source: Shirrako’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Gladius, Beast of Night Boss Fight (4k 60FPS).

Ever wanted to fight a Cerberus with a weapon? No? Too bad, because that’s exactly what you’re dealing with here. Gladius doesn’t just pounce menacingly; it splits into three smaller wolves when you think you’ve got it cornered. Each one is more aggressive than the last. By the time you figure out which holy weapon works best, you’re getting mauled mid-animation. Fantastic.

6. Adel, Baron of Night

Source: Shirrako’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Adel, Baron of Night Boss Fight (4k 60FPS).

Firstly, can we talk about the sheer visual nightmare of this boss? Massive, blackened frame, gaping maw full of grinding teeth, and an aura of “you definitely shouldn’t be here.” Of all the Nightlords, Adel feels like the one designed specifically to punish your overconfidence. Have fun sprinting out of grab animations while your clueless co-op buddy is getting chewed like an overcooked steak.

5. Gnoster, Wisdom of Night

Source: Gokul1180’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Gnoster, Wisdom of Night Nightlord Full Run w/ Executor.

Oh, look, a duo fight. Because, clearly, one Nightlord isn’t pain enough. Gnoster and its insect buddy are here to crush any remnants of hope you might’ve been clinging to. Poison everywhere, aerial magic barrages, and a health pool that makes no sense. Bring all the fire damage you can muster, or bring tissues for the tears you’re about to cry.

4. Maris, Fathom of Night

Source: Shirrako’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Maris, Fathom of Night Boss Fight (4k, 60FPS).

Maris’ moves are straight out of a fever dream. Between soul-shattering sleep debuffs and God-tier lightning strikes, this boss is more of a nightmare than the name “Nightlord” already implies. Maris also loves to mess with your timing. Just when you think you’ve got an opening, BAM, you’re slowed by a mist or electrocuted out of nowhere.

3. Libra, Creature of Night

Source: Shirrako’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Libra, Creature of Night Boss Fight (4k 60 FPS).

This goat-man thing is as ridiculous as it sounds, spamming spells with maddening precision and using the kind of AoE attacks that make you question why you’re even playing this game. If you thought the Frenzied Flame was bad before, wait until you’re lit up like an inferno and somehow still getting hit with holy damage. Oh, and he’s also weak to madness, but inflicts madness? Sure. Makes total sense.

2. Heolstor the Nightlord

Source: Dan Allen Gaming’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Heolstor the Nightlord Boss Fight (4K).

This guy feels like FromSoftware woke up and chose violence. With attacks that start chipping away at your HP before you’ve even had time to admire his oozy, shadowy, otherworldly form, Heolstor quickly establishes dominance. His dual-phase nonsense means you’re not just beating him once, but twice. Thanks for that. Oh, and don’t even bother thinking this is a “learn the mechanics and win” kind of fight. This is a “pray you don’t throw your controller at phase two” kind of fight.

1. Fulghor, Champion of Nightglow

Source: Shirrako’s video Elden Ring Nightreign – Fulghor, Champion of Nightglow Boss Fight (4K 60FPS).

Finally, we reach the Nightlord that broke Reddit for a solid week. Champion of Nightglow is a centaur who compensates for his missing arm with a gigantic sword that few players can avoid without sprinting out of the arena. Lightning vulnerability is his Achilles’ heel (thanks for that, FromSoftware), but his flaming bow-and-arrow moves? Straight-up nightmare fuel.

Tips for Survival (Barely)

• Holy Damage Saves Lives – Most of these Nightlords are weak to holy damage. Stock up on incantations, weapons, or allies who can help.
• Learn the Patterns – As much as it sucks, patience is key. Study their moves, exploit their openings, and don’t get greedy.
• Summon Allies – Whether it’s other players or spirit companions, you will need all the help you can get.
• Don’t Rage Quit – After all, isn’t dying 14 times and then winning what Elden Ring is all about?
• The Nightreign Nightlords aren’t just difficult—they’re character-building. Each one will test your skills, your patience, and how much you value your controller. But hey, when you finally conquer them, you’ll walk away with bragging rights and a deep sense of accomplishment. Though, between us, therapy might be cheaper.
• Good luck out there, Tarnished. You’re going to need it.