How to Get S Rank in Cuphead (Complete Guide)
Getting an S Rank in Cuphead is one of the biggest challenges in the game. It proves that you didn’t just defeat a boss you mastered the fight. S Ranks are only possible under strict conditions, and even small mistakes can stop you from earning one. This guide explains everything you need to know, step by step, in a clear and simple way.
What Makes S Rank Different from Other Ranks
An S Rank is the highest score you can earn in Cuphead, but it comes with special rules. S Ranks are only available on Expert Mode. Regular Mode and Simple Mode will never reward an S Rank, no matter how well you play.
Expert Mode bosses are faster, more aggressive, and often have new attack patterns. This means you must play cleanly, quickly, and with full control over your character.
Core Requirements for Getting an S Rank
To earn an S Rank, you must meet all performance conditions during a boss fight. Missing even one requirement will lower your final grade.
- The fight must be completed very quickly. In most cases, you need to defeat the boss in around two minutes. Going too slow, even with perfect gameplay, can prevent an S Rank.
- You must finish the battle without losing health. You need to end the fight with full HP. If you take even one hit, your chances of getting S Rank are gone. Some charms allow extra health, but the goal remains the same: avoid damage entirely.
- You must successfully perform three parries. These come from pink objects or attacks. Parries are not optional; skipping them will block the S Rank.
- Finally, you must use enough Super Cards. This includes EX moves or Super Arts. Using Supers regularly shows aggressive and efficient gameplay, which the scoring system expects.
Wanna know About How to Get S Rank in Cuphead
Choosing the Right Loadout
Your equipment plays a major role in S Rank attempts. Defensive and high-damage setups work best.
Charms that help with dodging are extremely valuable. The Smoke Bomb allows you to dash through enemies without taking damage, which is perfect for Expert Mode. Ms. Chalice is also a strong choice because of her extra mobility and defensive abilities. Weapon choice should focus on damage and control. Close-range weapons like Spread can help you beat the time limit faster, while weapons like Roundabout or Charge offer strong damage with better positioning. The best weapon is the one you can use confidently without missing shots.
Smart Strategies for Successful S Ranks
A good S Rank attempt starts with planning. One of the best bosses to practice on is The Root Pack, which many players consider the easiest S Rank target. Its attack patterns are simpler and more predictable, making it a great first goal. Try to complete your parries early in the fight. Early phases usually have slower and safer parry opportunities. This removes pressure later when the boss becomes more aggressive.
Even though survival is important, you cannot play too slowly. To beat the timer, you must stay aggressive while remaining careful. High-damage weapons help shorten the fight, but only use them if you can stay safe.
Charms should be chosen carefully. Some charms can restore health, but they often reduce damage output. This can make it harder to finish within the time limit. Avoiding damage entirely is usually better than trying to recover from mistakes.
For harder bosses with busy screens, weapons like Roundabout or Chaser can help control chaos and keep pressure on the boss without risky positioning.
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Treat Expert Mode Like a Rhythm Game
Expert Mode fights often feel overwhelming at first. The key is repetition. Every boss follows patterns, even when attacks seem random. Learn the timing, spacing, and order of attacks until movements become automatic. Once the fight feels like a rhythm instead of chaos, S Rank attempts become much more manageable.
Final Thoughts
Getting an S Rank in Cuphead is not about luck. It’s about preparation, patience, and consistency. Learn the boss, choose the right loadout, parry safely, avoid damage, and keep the pace fast. Expect failures, because even experienced players need many attempts.
When you finally earn that S Rank, it’s one of the most satisfying rewards Cuphead has to offer.
