REVIEW / Ultimate Sour Challenge

I’ve experienced my fair share of letdowns when it comes to “social shopping.” Who hasn’t been reeled in by a hype storm only to find out the hard way? I’ve fallen victim to a neck cream that was nothing more than a cheap imitation, a sling carrier that scared the living daylights out of my senior Yorkie, and a leaking jar of chili crisp that made my mailman less than friendly. But, every so often, an unexpected gem turns up. Enter Final Boss Sour — the hyper-sour candy that’s been creating quite the buzz on my social media, and for a good reason!

Think Super Mario world map when you see the playful map of Gooberland. It gives off that nostalgic gaming vibe that takes you back. Founded by James Hicks and Tommy Riggs from Science Inc., the brainpower behind hit brands like Liquid Death and Dollar Shave Club, Final Boss Sour captures humor and retro gaming like no other. They’re more than just candy creators; they’ve developed a complete narrative around it. You follow Hank, a surly honey badger who accidentally unleashes an ancient sorcerer’s sour chaos by breaking the seal on a pickled jar. Teaming up with Quinnie, a quokka with a sweet tooth, they embark on a mission to restore peace to Gooberland. Alongside the main plot, each mini-boss comes with its own tale, expanding this Sour-verse through the amusing Gooberland Gazette newsletter. This isn’t just about candy; it’s an experience wrapped in lore.

A word to the wise though — those ominous clouds indicate that a Level 4 sour storm awaits. While unfortunately there isn’t a retro 16-bit tie-in game, the challenge here is far from child’s play. Chomping through Level 1 is delightful, a perfect blend of tanginess and fruit. But if you’re braving Level 2 or 3 without so much as a wince, hats off — you might be out of this world. For an epic night of board games or drinks, gather your crew and try the VIP Destroyer Ultimate Sour Sampler Box. It offers their iconic cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries in three escalating sour tiers. Share the adventure, forge bonds through the shared challenge, and savor the mercilessly sweet sting.

With no artificial additives or preservatives, Final Boss Sour is a solid pick for the health-conscious snacker. But let’s be honest here, it’s still candy. Packing 20-22 grams of sugar per pouch, it’s less than Sour Patch Kids but packs more than Sour Strips, Warheads, or Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers. Yet, those alternatives hide behind endless chemical names. Unlike others, Final Boss Sour boasts only five core ingredients: real dried fruit, cane sugar, sunflower oil, citric acid, and malic acid. And yes, the acidity punches through in taste. Sample the range yourself to see which level suits your brave palate. Personally, Level 1 Sour Strawberries hit that sweet spot, a melody of flavors that feels downright divine.

Now, onto their special edition drops. I received their Strawberry Kiwi Level 2 and immediately proclaimed, “Who needs Level 1?” — until I discovered it was already sold out. These limited, anticipated releases like Sour Strawberry Mango Level 2 and Chocolate Covered Sour Cherries are gone in a flash, with Level 4 flavors pushing boundaries. Their latest, Sour Grapes Level 4, is still up for grabs, but if you dislike missing out, you might want to consider their Monthly Drop Club.

For fans of retro gaming and sour snacks, or if you enjoy a bit of a challenge, Final Boss Sour is certainly worth a try. They’re even offering a free first box with your DFB purchase — but beware. You may soon find yourself hooked. That first taste, after all, is just the beginning.

Disclaimer: This review includes products provided by Final Boss Sour. Yet, full disclosure, I’ve already made three more purchases. Perhaps the ‘addictive’ reputation isn’t entirely off the mark…