PoE 2 Boss Guide: The Rotten Druid Strategy & Drops

The Rotten Druid is a grotesque, optional boss encountered in the Den of the Druid, a hidden sub-area within The Grim Tangle in Act 1 of Path of Exile 2. Unlike the noble druids of the wilds, Ervig has succumbed to the fungal decay of the forest, becoming a host for parasitic spores. This fight is a chaotic battle against environmental hazards, requiring players to dodge relentless projectile barrages while navigating a minefield of explosive mushrooms.

Lore & Background

The Rotten Druid was once a caretaker of the Grim Tangle, tasked with maintaining the balance of life and death in the deep woods. However, as the corruption seeped into the roots of the forest, he believed that decay was the only true form of life. He willingly let the parasitic fungi consume him, fusing his flesh with the rotting bark and spores.

Now, he acts as the gardener of this twisted grove, nurturing the poisonous flora that chokes the life out of any intruder. He is not just a druid; he is the avatar of the rot itself.

Core Mechanics

The Rotten Druid deals primarily Physical and Chaos Damage. The arena is ring-shaped with a hazardous center filled with Explosive Spores. Staying mobile is the only way to survive.

Phase 1: The Spore Caster

• 1. Spore Eruption
  Description: The Rotten Druid waves his wand to release tracking golden rays that deal massive damage.
  Strategy: When you see the attack effect appear, keep moving and maintain a good distance to avoid it.
• 2.Rotten Thorns Volley
  Description: The Rotten Druid strikes the ground with his staff, creating a magic circle that summons vines to attack.
  Strategy: You can avoid the vines by rolling to the side when they appear.
• 3. Spore Eruption（upgrade）
  Description: The Rotten Druid waved his wand, unleashing a barrage of tracking golden beams that caused massive damage.
  Strategy: When you see the attack effect appear, keep moving and maintain a good distance to avoid it.

• 1. Boulder Heave
  Description: The Rotten Druid pulls a massive boulder from the center of the arena, lifts it overhead, and hurls it at the player.
  Strategy: This is a massive physical slam with a large impact radius. The wind-up is long but the projectile travels fast. Dodge Roll at the last second to avoid the shockwave.

Recommended Builds

The Rotten Druid is an evasive caster who forces you to keep moving. Static builds will struggle.

• Ranger - Poison/Acid: Ironically, poison works well against him. The "Hit and Run" playstyle of a Ranger allows you to dodge his barrages while dealing consistent DoT.
• Monk - Wind Step: High mobility is key to navigating the minefield of mushrooms. The Monk can close the gap quickly after he teleports.
• Key Stats: Chaos Resistance is highly recommended to mitigate the spore clouds. Movement Speed is your best defense against the boulder.

Loot Table

The Rotten Druid is a critical boss for early progression as he guarantees a support gem drop.