Path of Exile 2: How to Defeat Zicoatl, Warden of the Core
Defeat Zicoatl, Warden of the Core, a major boss in Act 3 of Path of Exile 2. After navigating through Jiquani's Machinarium and Jiquani's Sanctum, you'll encounter this formidable guardian protecting the final Power Core. While Zicoatl has high-damage attacks, the fight is manageable if you come prepared.
In this guide, we'll cover Zicoatl’s attack patterns, how to dodge its abilities, and the best strategies to defeat it efficiently.
Where to Find Zicoatl, Warden of the Core
You’ll encounter Zicoatl inside Jiquani’s Sanctum, but the boss remains inactive until you collect the two Medium Soul Cores in the area.
This fight is part of the "Legacy of the Vaal" main quest, so it cannot be skipped and you should defeat Zicoatl.
Zicoatl Boss Fight Strategy
Zicoatl is a stationary boss with a recharging shield. If you stop attacking for too long, the shield regenerates, prolonging the fight. Staying on the offensive is key to defeating this boss quickly.
Zicoatl's Attacks & How to Dodge Them
| Attack | Description | How to Dodge |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Field | Fires parallel lasers in front of the boss. | Move left or right to avoid the beams. |
| Snake Pummel | Snakes strike multiple times forward. | Step back or to the sides after the first attack. |
| Laser Grid | Masks on walls fire lasers at the boss. | Watch for blue outlines and move accordingly. |
| Triangle Trap | A red triangle forms and explodes with shockwaves. | Move to one of the triangle’s vertices to avoid. |
| Laser Limbo | A persistent laser moves forward and remains. | Sidestep and avoid lingering in the area. |
| Laser Grid Rebound | Additional lasers form an intersecting pattern. | Look for faint blue lines to predict laser paths. |
Best Strategy for Defeat Zicoatl
🔹 Boost Lightning Resistance – Most of Zicoatl’s attacks deal Lightning Damage, so increasing your Lightning Resistance will help mitigate incoming damage.
🔹 Beware of Triangle Trap – This is Zicoatl’s strongest attack and can one-shot you if you’re caught in the explosion. Once you see the red triangle forming, immediately move to one of its vertices to stay safe.
🔹 Stay Mobile – Most of Zicoatl’s laser-based attacks can be dodged by moving left or right. Stick close to the boss, and keep attacking while avoiding telegraphed attacks.
🔹 Watch for Laser Grids – The wall-mounted masks give a clear warning before firing. Stay alert and move before the lasers activate.
With the right timing and movement, Zicoatl is a manageable fight. Stay aggressive, avoid its hard-hitting abilities, and claim victory!
More Path of Exile 2 Guides:
How to Use Loot Filters in Path of Exile 2
Viper Napuatzi Boss Fight
Stay tuned for more boss guides and gameplay strategies! 🚀
