Strategies to Defeat Rattlecage the Earthbreaker in Path of Exile 2

Defeating Rattlecage, the Earthbreaker, in Path of Exile 2 can be challenging, but understanding the mechanics of this boss and preparing adequately through the Trial of the Sekhemas can significantly enhance your chances of victory. Whether your performance in the trial was subpar or stellar, knowing the intricacies of this battle is crucial for success. Below, we will explore effective strategies to conquer Rattlecage.

Strategies for Conquering Rattlecage

As the final boss of the Trial of the Sekhemas, Rattlecage poses a unique challenge that revolves around managing your Honour effectively. Even if your character can withstand significant damage, your resource management is key to prevailing in this encounter.

Melee players often find this battle particularly daunting, as they are required to engage closely with Rattlecage while continuously avoiding a barrage of AoE attacks that can severely deplete your Honour. Therefore, meticulous dodging is essential!

One of the most effective strategies is to equip Relics that boost your Maximum Honour and Honour Resistance buffs before entering the trial. Aiming to accumulate between 500-600 Honour prior to engaging the boss will provide a crucial buffer, enhancing your survivability and possibly granting additional boons, such as reduced enemy action speed.

If you begin the boss fight on the right foot and avoid taking early damage, you can focus on minimizing your Honour loss. Rattlecage’s attacks aren’t as devastating as some other bosses you might have faced; rather, it’s the sheer volume and persistence of damage that can overwhelm you.

Remember, during your initial attempts, it’s perfectly fine to lose. You do not have to defeat Balbala again to obtain the token; simply approach Balbala and request another attempt.

Understanding Rattlecage’s Attack Patterns

The confrontation begins with Rattlecage unleashing a series of explosive attacks. Expect three explosions radiating outward, with the blast radius expanding with each subsequent detonation. Maintaining distance from the boss during this phase is critical, as each hit can cost you over 150 Honour.

Rattlecage will also perform a ground slam, but these melee attacks are relatively easy to predict due to the boss’s slow speed. For players who favor ranged attacks, keeping your distance while consistently dealing damage allows for a much simpler encounter.

Melee players should adopt a strategy of hitting and running diagonally to evade these ground smashes. While it sounds straightforward, maintaining this maneuver while managing Honour can be complicated, given that even minor damage can chip away at your resource.

Volcanic Fissures and Eruptions — Image Credit: Prima Games

One of the most menacing aspects of the battle is the eruption of fissures that emit flames across the battlefield. While getting hit by these may only cost a small amount of Honour initially, they can further debuff you, leading to additional Honour loss in quick succession. It’s easy to overlook this damage, especially if you’ve successfully built up your defenses.

Ultimately, success against Rattlecage hinges on starting with a healthy supply of Honour and mastering your dodging and kiting skills. Once you familiarize yourself with the boss’s attack patterns and complete a solid run in the Trial of the Sekhemas, you’ll undoubtedly overcome Rattlecage and earn your ascension with pride.

Learn More at Prima Games