Path of Exile 2: How to Beat The King in the Mists
The King in the Mists is one of the most memorable early-game optional bosses in Path of Exile 2, not just because of his eerie name and thematic presence but because he introduces players to a genuine test of endurance. Unlike most encounters before him, this druidic spellcaster uses a multi-phase battle structure, regenerates his health to full, and forces players to adapt to new attack patterns mid-fight. If you're unprepared, especially in terms of build upgrades, gear investment, and consumables, you'll find yourself overwhelmed quickly.
This is exactly why managing POE 2 Currency efficiently before facing this boss can make all the difference. Proper resource allocation will determine whether you walk away victorious with a powerful reward or return to town in defeat.
Where to Find The King in the Mists
You'll encounter The King in the Mists during an optional side quest in Freythorn. The quest is provided by Finn, who tasks you with seeking out and destroying ritual altars located throughout the druid village. Each altar you purge pushes the quest further toward completion, and once all altars are eradicated, The King in the Mists will appear to challenge you.
Though the quest is optional, skipping it means missing out on useful rewards and an early introduction to the favor system. If you're aiming for long-term progression, don't bypass this encounter.
How to Prepare
Before heading into the battle, ensure your character is fully optimized using POE 2 Currency. Consider the following best practices:
Upgrade your gear using Orbs of Transmutation and crafting currency. A single updated weapon or piece of armor can significantly increase survivability.
Stock up on healing and mana flasks. This boss is stamina-heavy, you'll need sustain over pure burst.
Consider trading your POE 2 Currency for build-enhancing items. Spirit-based items or resistance boosters can make the toughest phases manageable.
Boost movement speed where possible. Dodge timings during later phases are tight.
You'll also want to double-check passive allocations and skill gem links. If you're low on resources, spending your POE 2 Currency wisely now is better than holding onto it and risking multiple failed attempts.
How to Beat The King in the Mists
Phase 1: Aggressive Spell Barrage
In the initial phase, The King uses purple spectral energy similar to the Brambleghast but with more precision and intensity. Expect:
Fast-moving energy shards
Ground slam attacks
Bombs that generate rippling blood pools on impact
Keep your distance to avoid getting cornered. Use hit-and-run tactics, and position yourself away from map edges to avoid being locked into bad terrain. At this stage, most attacks are linear, easier to dodge if you watch his casting animations.
Phase 2: Transformation into Tree Ent
Once you drain his health the first time, he transforms into a demonic tree creature and restores his health completely. This is where unprepared players panic, especially if they've already depleted consumables. He'll now use:
Arc-shaped energy blasts
Purple energy mines left on the ground
Homing spirit orbs that chase and detonate after contact
A shockwave staff smash that deals knockback and damage
During this phase, movement is your greatest weapon. Always reposition after attacking, and don't get greedy. The homing projectiles can be particularly dangerous, try to kite them into open spaces, then dodge at the last second.
Vine Trap Mechanic
If you lose track of the environment, he may root you using druidic vine magic. This can be fatal if it happens while he's charging a major attack. The best way to avoid this is to stay mobile and keep an eye on your feet, not just the boss.
Players with movement-enhancing skills or increased evasion will find this mechanic easier to manage.
Rewards for Defeating The King in the Mists
Upon victory, you'll receive the Gembloom Skull, granting +30 Spirit, which is especially good for classes dependent on resource-based spellcasting or summoning.
Additionally, defeating The King unlocks access to the favor system, which allows you to obtain rewards from druid ritual altars by offering tribute. This is a long-term progression mechanic, so unlocking it early benefits the rest of your playthrough.
Keep in mind: using POE 2 Currency to optimize your build before this fight often results in gaining far more value later through the favor system. It's an investment that pays off.
Advanced Strategy Tips
If your build is damage-over-time focused, target The King during his casting animations and relocate immediately.
If you rely on burst damage, wait for his longest windup attacks to unload high-impact skills.
High evasion and resist builds perform best against his mixed magic and physical attacks.
Use POE 2 Currency post-fight to refine gear with spirit enhancements now that you have the Gembloom Skull.
Final Thoughts
The King in the Mists is designed as a wake-up call for new players, a test of adaptability, stamina, and resource management. More than sheer mechanical skill, the fight rewards smart preparation and strategic use of POE 2 Currency. If you invest wisely before entering the arena and stay calm during transitions, you'll walk away with a powerful item and access to systems that accelerate your progression.
Take the time to craft properly, invest in mobility and sustain, and you'll find this mist-shrouded monarch far less intimidating.
MMOexp POE 2 Team