id Software's 2016 reboot launched on 13 May 2016 and rebuilt the series by removing every reason to stop moving. Glory Kills drop health, the chainsaw drops ammunition, and cover does nothing at all, so the 13 campaign missions from The UAC through Kadingir Sanctum to Argent D'Nur reward forward pressure over caution. This is the reboot rather than DOOM Eternal or the 1993 original, and its pace still outruns most shooters released since.
Boss fights are where DOOM tests everything you've learned. This guide covers strategies for bosses across all areas, organized by progression order. For general combat techniques, see our combat guide.
Boss Difficulty Overview
| Area | Difficulty | Recommended Role | Key Weapons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resource Operations | Easy | Super Shotgun Brawler | Combat Shotgun |
| Kadingir Sanctum | Moderate | Super Shotgun Brawler | Combat Shotgun |
| Lazarus Labs | Hard | Glory Kill Rusher | Super Shotgun |
| The Necropolis | Very Hard | Glory Kill Rusher | Super Shotgun |
| Argent D'Nur | Extreme | Glory Kill Rusher | Super Shotgun |
Resource Operations Bosses
Area difficulty: Easy Recommended level: Mission 2 of 13 Recommended role: Super Shotgun Brawler with Combat Shotgun
Strategy
The first bosses teach core combat mechanics. Focus on learning patterns rather than dealing damage. Damaged demons stagger and flash, and a melee press executes them for a burst of health. This is your primary tool here.
Key tips:
- Don't rush. Learn the attack patterns first.
- Use Glory Kills to create safe windows.
- Combat Shotgun is enough to handle everything here.
Kadingir Sanctum Bosses
Area difficulty: Moderate Recommended level: Mission 6 of 13 Recommended role: Super Shotgun Brawler with Combat Shotgun
Strategy
Early game bosses test your understanding of Chainsaw ammunition economy. Players who skipped learning this mechanic will hit a wall here.
Key tips:
- Chainsaw ammunition economy is critical for these fights.
- Farm Combat Shotgun upgrades if you're struggling.
- Consider switching to Super Shotgun Brawler if your current setup isn't working.
Lazarus Labs Bosses
Area difficulty: Hard Recommended level: Mission 9 of 13 Recommended role: Glory Kill Rusher with Super Shotgun
Strategy
Mid-game bosses are the major skill check. They combine multiple mechanics and punish players who rely on a single strategy.
Key tips:
- You need both Glory Kills and Weapon mods and Field Drones mastery.
- Super Shotgun makes a significant difference. Get it before attempting these.
- See our combat guide for advanced techniques.
The Necropolis Bosses
Area difficulty: Very Hard Recommended level: Mission 11 of 13 Recommended role: Glory Kill Rusher with Super Shotgun
Strategy
Late-game bosses are serious challenges. Build optimization matters as much as mechanical skill.
Key tips:
- Make sure your build is fully optimized.
- Super Shotgun at max upgrade is recommended.
- Study each boss's attack patterns. Most have 2-3 phases.
Argent D'Nur Bosses
Area difficulty: Extreme Recommended level: Mission 13 of 13 Recommended role: Glory Kill Rusher with Super Shotgun
Strategy
Endgame bosses are the ultimate test. They require mastery of all combat systems and an optimized build.
Key tips:
- Top-tier build with best-in-slot gear is mandatory.
- Master every mechanic. See our combat guide.
- These fights reward patience and pattern recognition above all else.
General Boss Tips
- Learn before you fight: Spend your first attempt observing attack patterns. Don't try to win on attempt one.
- Match your build: Some bosses favor certain builds over others. Don't be afraid to switch.
- Upgrade your weapons: A max-upgraded Super Shotgun trivializes fights that seem impossible with weaker gear.
- Use Glory Kills: The core combat mechanic is your best defensive tool in every boss fight.
- Check the walkthrough: Our walkthrough tells you when you're ready for each boss.
More DOOM Guides
- DOOM DOOM Overview
- DOOM Best Builds
- DOOM Tier List
- DOOM Walkthrough
- DOOM Beginner's Guide
- DOOM Tips & Tricks
- DOOM Weapons Guide
- DOOM Combat Guide
- DOOM Maps & Locations
- DOOM Crafting Guide
- DOOM Classes & Characters
Similar Games
If you enjoy DOOM, check out these related guides:
- Counter-Strike 2 Boss Guide: fps game with similar mechanics
- Apex Legends Boss Guide: fps game with similar mechanics
- Rainbow Six Siege Boss Guide: fps game with similar mechanics
