The most depressing video game boss to fight is subjective and can vary from person to person based on their personal experiences and emotional connections to the game's story and characters. However, there are a few notable examples of video game bosses that have evoked strong emotions and sadness in many players:
Shadow of the Colossus - The 16th Colossus (Malus): In Shadow of the Colossus, players must face a series of colossal beings. The final colossus, Malus, is particularly poignant due to its tragic nature and the realization that each colossus you defeat represents a significant sacrifice.
The Walking Dead: Season 1 - Lee Everett: While not a traditional boss fight, the emotional encounter with Lee Everett in the final episode of The Walking Dead's first season is deeply moving. Players have formed a strong bond with Lee throughout the game, making the choice at the end incredibly difficult and heart-wrenching.
Dark Souls - Great Grey Wolf Sif: This boss battle is bittersweet because players discover that the wolf Sif was once a companion of the game's protagonist, Artorias. The emotional weight is heightened further if players have encountered Sif in the game's DLC, where they see the wolf protecting Artorias's grave.
Undertale - Asriel Dreemurr: The final boss of the True Pacifist route in Undertale, Asriel Dreemurr, is a profoundly emotional battle. Players confront Asriel, who was once a friend, and must find a way to save him from his despair.
Final Fantasy VII - Jenova LIFE and Aerith's death: Aerith's death is a pivotal and tragic moment in Final Fantasy VII. The subsequent battle against Jenova LIFE can be emotionally charged for players who were deeply invested in Aerith's character.
These examples highlight how video games can evoke strong emotions, including sadness and depression, through compelling storytelling, character development, and the player's emotional investment in the game's world. It's a testament to the power of interactive storytelling and the impact video games can have on players' emotions.