In Diablo 4, the Altar of Ruin Stronghold presents a formidable challenge for players. The stronghold is infested with a cult that worships the boss, Dark Cardinal Maldul, as a god. Your objective is to defeat Maldul and cleanse the stronghold of this dark influence. By completing this task, you’ll also gain access to the Sepulcher of the Forsworn dungeon. Here’s a walkthrough to help you conquer the Altar of Ruin Stronghold.
Locating the Altar of Ruin Stronghold in Diablo 4
Finding the Altar of Ruin stronghold requires some extensive exploration in Diablo 4. The nearest town, Zarbinzet, is located quite a distance away, leaving no nearby settlements. Depending on your approach, there are two main routes to reach the Altar of Ruin.
If you’re coming from the Dry Steppes, you can traverse the Scarred Coast until you reach the stronghold. Alternatively, you can venture through the Amber Sands from the south to reach the stronghold’s location.
Completing the Altar of Ruin Stronghold in Kehjistan
It is recommended to attempt the Altar of Ruin Stronghold when you reach level 48 in Diablo 4. The enemies within the stronghold are level 45, so being adequately prepared is crucial.
Obtain all three Keystones
As you make your way to the Altar of Ruin Stronghold, you’ll discover that the entrance is blocked off. You’ll need to find an alternate path to gain access. Look for a narrow space alongside the main entrance that you can crawl through. Follow this path until you reach the inner chamber.
Inside, you’ll encounter worshippers of Baal who will confront you. They are equipped with shields, making them slightly more challenging to defeat. Eliminate all the cultists to complete the objective and acquire the three Ritual Chamber Keystones they possess. These Keystones are necessary to unlock the door and gain entry to the stronghold. Approach the large doorway and proceed into the Altar of Ruin stronghold.
Defeat Dark Cardinal Maldul
After using the three Ritual Chamber Keystones to open the door, you’ll face Dark Cardinal Maldul in a boss fight. Before engaging in combat with Maldul, you’ll have to overcome two waves of his subordinates.
The enemies you’ll encounter include three Unholy creatures, an Annihilator Shaman, and several Fallens. Dispatch them quickly to progress to the actual boss fight.
Once you’ve defeated the waves of enemies, Maldul’s shield will be removed, allowing you to deal damage. However, this is not a solo encounter as Maldul will continuously summon Fallens to aid him in battle.
To succeed, keep your distance from Maldul to avoid his attacks. Focus on dealing damage to Maldul while eliminating the enemy Fallen spawns from a safe range. Be especially cautious of Maldul’s deadly magic circles and avoid them at all costs.
If you prefer a ranged approach, consider playing as a Necromancer and utilize your army of the dead to keep the Fallen occupied. Additionally, if you’re playing as a Sorcerer, using Hydra and Inferno teleportation can be an effective escape strategy against Maldul’s attacks.
Once you’ve defeated Maldul, return to the entrance of the stronghold and interact with the Wanderer Shrine. This will rekindle the shrine and solidify your conquest of the Altar of Ruin Stronghold. A waypoint will unlock, and you’ll also gain access to the Sepulcher of the Forsworn dungeon.
Conquer the Altar of Ruin Stronghold and prove your strength in Diablo 4!
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