Fifteen years after Dark Souls first launched, one boss has proven to outclass even the formidable foes of Elden Ring. Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, meanwhile, continues to struggle to earn respect among fans and speedrunners alike. The fiery lord may have flashy theatrics and a memorable arena, but when it comes to raw challenge and fight design, he doesn’t hold a candle to the legends from FromSoftware’s debut.
Dark Souls 1 introduced players to unforgettable battles that have stood the test of time. Bosses like Artorias, Ornstein and Smough, and Manus set a benchmark for intensity and complexity that has yet to be reliably surpassed. They combine pattern mastery, punishing attacks, and an unmistakable weight that makes every victory feel hard-earned and meaningful. Their legacy remains apparent when the best veterans can consistently clear Elden Ring’s encounters but rarely falter against these originals.
Rykard’s claim to infamy is often met with eye rolls. His gimmick rushes players into a spectacle but lacks the nuanced danger that defines the Soulsborne elite. Some speedruns or boss rush completions credit him with defeating these titans, yet there’s always the caveat that one of Rykard’s knockouts doesn’t quite deserve full recognition. His KO simply doesn’t count because of the way the fight mechanics are exploited—showing that raw difficulty isn’t the same as design excellence.
This contrast leaves a clear message. The Dark Souls 1 bosses remain the gold standard for challenge and depth. Rykard, despite being an official lord in FromSoftware’s pantheon, still feels like a novelty act. He’s more flash than substance, and after all this time, the originals remain firmly on the throne.
Source: pcgamer.com
