Cuphead: 10 Pro Tips to Conquer Every Boss and Earn That S-Rank

Introduction

Cuphead is a run-and-gun indie game renowned for its hand-drawn 1930s cartoon style and brutally challenging boss fights. Whether you're stuck on the Root Pack or the Devil himself, these 10 tips will help you parry, dash, and shoot your way to victory—and maybe even that elusive S-rank.

1. Master the Parry

The parry is your most versatile tool. By pressing the jump button again while airborne (after unlocking the ability from the tutorial), you can parry pink objects, including projectiles, obstacles, and even some bosses. Parrying refills your EX meter, which powers your special moves. Practice parrying whenever you see pink: it's essential for building meter and avoiding damage.

2. Choose the Right Weapon Loadout

Cuphead offers several weapons; experiment with combinations. The Spread (shotgun-style) is excellent for close-range damage, while Chaser automatically aims at enemies, great for mobile bosses. The Charge shot deals massive damage if you can time it. For most fights, consider the Peashooter as a reliable all-rounder. Don't forget to equip the Smoke Bomb charm early—it grants a brief dodge roll that can save you from tight spots.

3. Learn Boss Patterns

Each boss has a set of telegraphed attacks. Focus on surviving rather than dealing damage during your first few attempts. Identify tells: for example, when the Root Pack's carrot charges, jump and parry its pink tears. Use the first phase to learn the rhythm without pressure. Once you recognize patterns, you'll know when to attack and when to dodge.

4. Use the Environment

Many boss arenas have platforms or obstacles you can use to your advantage. For instance, against Grim Matchstick (the fire dragon), the moving platform helps you avoid his fireballs. Against Cala Maria, hide behind sunken ships to block her petrifying breath. Always scan the arena for cover or strategic positions.

5. Manage Your EX Meter

Your EX moves are powerful: the Peashooter's EX (a giant shot) deals high damage, the Spread's EX creates a wide blast, and the Charge's EX is a super strong blast. Save your meter for moments when you have a clear opening, such as when a boss is stunned or in a predictable pattern. The super art (gathered from 5 EX cards) is even stronger—use it at the start of a phase to burst down tough segments.

6. Don't Neglect the Shop

Before each world, visit Porkrind's Emporium. Buy at least the Smoke Bomb and the Heart Ring (gives an extra HP). The P. Sugar charm automatically parries the next pink object, which can be a lifesaver. Invest coins wisely; you can also replay earlier levels to farm coins if needed.

7. Stay Calm and Focus

Cuphead's difficulty can be frustrating, but panic leads to mistakes. Breathe, keep your eyes on your character and boss, not your health bar. Use the short invincibility frames from parries and dodge rolls to your advantage. Remember: every death teaches you something. If you're stuck, take a short break.

8. Use the Right Controls

Consider mapping jump to a trigger button (like L1 or R1) for quicker parries. Many players find it easier to dash with a shoulder button as well. Experiment in the tutorial until your fingers feel comfortable. Also, play in the Japanese version if you want slightly easier difficulty (Japanese peashooter has a wider spread).

9. Watch Your Positioning

In many fights, staying in the air is safer than on the ground. Hover near the top of the screen to dodge ground-based attacks. Conversely, some bosses (like the Devil) have attacks that cover the top, so you need to stay low. Adapt your positioning to each boss's move set. The P. Sugar charm can help if you're struggling with parry timing.

10. Practice, Practice, Practice

There's no substitute for repetition. Use the platform in the lobby to practice parrying balls. Replay easier levels to hone your skills. Watch speedruns or guides for advanced techniques. Most importantly, have fun—the challenge is rewarding, and the art and music make each boss memorable.

Conclusion

With these tips, you'll be S-ranking bosses in no time. Remember: stay mobile, parry pink, and never give up. The Devil won't know what hit him.