How to Complete the Strongholds of Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred

Oct-09-2024

 

Diablo 4's latest expansion, Vessel of Hatred, reintroduces the beloved Stronghold feature, allowing players to tackle three unique challenges scattered across the treacherous lands of Nahantu. These Strongholds not only offer thrilling encounters but also permanently alter the map, rewarding players with reputation and valuable rewards. Let's delve into the details of each Stronghold and what you can expect.

 

 

1. Chakhir

Located west of Seven Stones, Chakhir's quest revolves around uncovering the source of toxic magic permeating the area. To begin, players must locate and destroy several brewing cauldrons, many of which are guarded by Cauldron Keepers. These enemies must be defeated to break the barriers surrounding the cauldrons.

 

Some cauldrons require players to clear Befouled Briars before they can be destroyed. Once all cauldrons are dealt with, prepare for a confrontation with Darm in the central area. Caution is advised, as the flowers on the ground will explode if you step on them during the fight.

 

After vanquishing Darm, players must destroy four Falo Blooms in the central room to summon the bosses Sinerat and Skerg. Be wary of the flames and exploding flowers as you take them down. Completing Chakhir rewards you with 100 Renown and a bounty of Diablo 4 Gold.

 

 

2. Kichuk

The Kichuk Stronghold, situated on the northeastern edge of Teganze Plateau, tasks players with clearing out the Lacuni attacking the village. Your first objective is to rescue the villagers from their cages. Once freed, unite with the survivors to fend off a wave of Lacuni attacks.

 

To secure the village, you'll need to venture into the caves and destroy the pillars. Expect tougher Lacuni to emerge as you progress. After destroying all pillars, a race against time begins—return to the entrance before falling rocks cause significant damage.

 

Upon returning to the village, locate the leader, Kirma. This boss will transform and heal when you deal enough damage, and it will periodically vanish and reappear. 

Defeating Kichuk not only grants you 100 Renown but also unlocks a waypoint, allowing you to access the shrine after the battle.

 

 

3. Festering Dark

Festering Dark, located in the southern part of the Restless Canopy, presents a more intricate challenge. The objective here is to carry lanterns to braziers scattered throughout the Stronghold and ignite them.

 

Initially, only one of the two entrances is accessible. As you pick up the lantern, be aware that you cannot attack while holding it; if you're hit, the lantern will fall and need to be picked up again post-fight. Lighting each brazier causes the lantern to move automatically, leading you to more obstacles and braziers.

 

After lighting enough braziers, you'll summon Vesicator, a mini-boss with manageable attacks. Progressing further, you'll enter the Gates of the Necropolis, where you must prepare for a showdown with Maleficium.

 

In this boss fight, Maleficium inflicts heavy damage with a giant red circle on the ground and the lines that appear. To deal damage, you must attack Maleficium while it's illuminated by the braziers. Be cautious—once its health drops below 50%, it will extinguish all light sources and become invulnerable. Quickly find a brazier free of dark energy, reignite it, and resume your assault to finish off the boss.

 

Completing Festering Dark rewards you with 100 Renown, the Betrayed Tomb dungeon, and the Gates of the Necropolis waypoint.

 

 

Conclusion

The Strongholds in Diablo 4's Vessel of Hatred provide players with a diverse array of challenges, each requiring different strategies and tactics. As you engage with these Strongholds, you'll not only enhance your character but also unlock valuable resources and change the landscape of Nahantu forever. Prepare yourself for the trials ahead, and may your adventures in Sanctuary be fruitful!