Valor Mortis throws a variety of mutated abominations and formidable warriors at players, each offering a unique challenge and often a distinct visual flair reminiscent of the Dark Souls series. For those stepping into the role of William, facing these bosses solo requires careful preparation and understanding of their mechanics. This guide outlines all bosses in the game, their locations, and provides tips for overcoming them.
General Lothaire, The Eagle Bearer
Your first major confrontation is with General Lothaire, whom you will face twice. The initial encounter in the Valley of Ashes is scripted to end in defeat, serving as an introduction to the game's combat. The second fight, before entering the Abandoned Church, is a true test. Lothaire's moveset includes sweeping attacks with his mutated arm, lunges, and projectiles. Many of his attacks can be parried, which quickly builds his stagger bar, opening him up for critical hits. This fight is crucial for mastering the game's fast-paced, first-person combat.
The Iron Marshall
Found in the Fallen Village, The Iron Marshall is a slower, less aggressive boss compared to Lothaire. This makes him a more manageable encounter. Following this fight, players will encounter lesser versions of this boss known as Remnants of the Iron Regiment. The strategy here is to maintain distance and utilize fire-based attacks and ammunition to damage him, targeting the weak spot on his back. While melee is an option, his sweeping attacks can be difficult to dodge.
Sphinx, Devourer of the Unworthy
This encounter in the Caverns marks a significant shift in challenge. The Sphinx is incredibly fast and agile, making the Stasis Transmutation essential for slowing it down, or even freezing it, to create attack windows. The boss features two health bars, and in its second phase, a weak spot appears on its face, which can be targeted with the ample ammunition dropped during the fight.
Slaughtermill
Arguably a gimmick fight, Slaughtermill bears similarities to the Curse-Rotted Greatwood from Dark Souls 3. Players must target bulbous weak spots on the creature, with the second half of the fight taking place underground and incorporating platforming elements. The soundtrack during this phase is heavily inspired by Mick Gordon. Players should follow on-screen prompts, such as shooting weak spots, pulling Nepthoglobin nodes, or grappling, while dodging tentacles and summoned enemies.
Anna, The Bride Drowned in Tears
Encountered in the Cursed Hollow, Anna is a fast, humanoid boss armed with a butcher knife. While she summons Shambling Civilians to aid her, Anna herself is relatively fragile and susceptible to staggering. Fire Transmutation and heavy attacks are effective, as are explosive items like Hand Grenades to quickly dispatch her summoned allies, preventing players from becoming overwhelmed.
High Justicar Aurelius, Last of the Faithful
This boss is one of Valor Mortis' many Eternal Guardsmen, but mutated. The fight is best approached as a melee duel, focusing on poking and parrying. Fire damage can provide a helpful damage-over-time effect. When Aurelius uses a flask, he mutates, gaining a long-range arm attack. It is advisable to dodge until he reverts to his humanoid form, which is a less threatening state.
Experiment 33
This mutated abomination, resembling a creature from a Resident Evil game, resides in the Lighthouse basement. Experiment 33 actively pursues the player to attack. A 'kill it with fire' approach is recommended. Players can circle the arena while building up Fire Transmutation and using firearms on its weak spots. Utilizing Nepthtoglobin Vials is also beneficial during this fight.
The Orphan
The Orphan fight takes place in an arena filled with poison vents, forcing players to simultaneously dodge the boss's attacks and environmental hazards. The Shield Transmutation is useful here. The boss hits hard with lengthy combos. Fire status effects and Oil Grenades can be effective, especially in the second phase when the boss is against a wall, allowing for continuous application of fire damage.
Captain Raphael of the Nephtis Superioris
This humanoid enemy wields both a blade and a pistol and possesses the ability to heal himself. To counter this, an aggressive playstyle is recommended. Utilizing the Shield Transmutation to block attacks and deflect bullets, combined with timely dodges and attacks when Raphael attempts to heal, is key. Grenades or firearms can also be used to interrupt his healing.
Entity, Voice of the Void
The final boss, Entity, Voice of the Void, begins with a fight against a familiar-looking humanoid. The true challenge lies in the boss's numerous summons, some of which may have reappeared from earlier encounters. Players should be prepared to utilize all their learned skills and prioritize eliminating summoned enemies before focusing on the boss itself. The Shield Transmutation is also a valuable tool for this encounter.
