Citations:boss

(video games) An enemy, often at the end of a level, that is particularly challenging and must be beaten in order to progress

 * 1980, Space Panic arcade game manual, Universal Co., Ltd:
 * A monster, boss, or don does not die unless they drop more than 1, 2 or 3 floors, respectively.
 * Note: Here the term refers to a specific type of enemy, not an unique foe as in today's sense.


 * 1981, Galaga arcade flyer, Midway Mfg. Co.:
 * The top line &apos;Boss&apos; Galaga must be hit twice to be destroyed. If player hits this &apos;Boss&apos;, the fighter descends into tandem team with double firepower.
 * Note: Here the term refers to a specific type of enemy, not an unique foe as in today's sense.


 * 1982, Time Pilot / Pooyan arcade flyer, Konami Co., Ltd:
 * The only way to complete this scene is to beat the Pink Wolf(Boss) who appears in the end by throwing meat or shooting arrows at least five times.
 * Note: Here the term is likely meant in the traditional sense, "boss" as in "leader of a group", but is notable as an early use of the term to refer to one unique opponent.


 * 1985, Shao-lin's Road arcade manual, Konami Co., Ltd:
 * Each stage consists of two parts. The boss enemy appears in the second part, he has special means of attack!


 * 1985, Kung Fu instruction booklet, Nintendo of America, Inc.:
 * Stick Fighter (1st Floor Boss) Boomerang Fighter (2nd Floor Boss)


 * 1987, Battlantis arcade manual, Konami Co., Ltd:
 * His [i.e. the player's] ultimate goal is to defend his castle throughout, defeating the Boss Enemy (Asmodeus) and his followers.