How to Find and Defeat The Crowbell in Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be an absolute beast of an ARPG, with fresh mechanics, brutal bosses, and deeper combat systems that make every encounter a challenge. One of the standout battles early in the game is The Crowbell, an optional boss in Act One's Hunting Grounds. While you can skip it, defeating The Crowbell will reward you with some serious goodies that can boost your build early on.

If you want to take on this beast and come out on top, you'll need to know where to find it, how to counter its attacks, and the best strategies to ensure victory. Let's break it all down.

Where to Find The Crowbell

The Crowbell doesn't just sit around waiting for you to stumble upon it. You'll find it in the Hunting Grounds, which is part of the first act's story progression. However, actually encountering it requires a bit of exploration.

Here’s how to locate it:

• As you explore the Hunting Grounds, look for a distinct dirt-covered arena surrounded by vines. This is where the fight will happen.

• A wooden gate marks the entrance. If you see it, you’re close.

• Follow the path beyond the gate, and you’ll reach The Hunt Stone. Interacting with it triggers the fight.

The Crowbell Fight: Phase Breakdown

The Crowbell is no simple hack-and-slash foe. This battle has several stages, and each stage increases in difficulty. Be prepared for some serious dodging and adapting if you want to win.

Phase One: The Hunt Stone Encounter

• What to Expect: The Crowbell starts off with melee attacks—swipes, slams, and rushes that can chunk your health bar if you’re not careful.

• Best Strategy: Keep moving. Dodge rolls will save you, but you’ll need to time them well. Attack right after The Crowbell finishes a move, giving you an opening.

Phase Two: The Entrance Arena

• What to Expect: The fight shifts into a smaller space near a massive bell, limiting your ability to maneuver.

• Best Strategy: This is where positioning is crucial. Stay out of corners, dodge roll when necessary, and don’t get greedy with your attacks.

Phase Three: The Final Arena (Vine Enclosure)

• What to Expect: At half health, The Crowbell picks up the giant bell and smashes through barriers to reach an enclosed vine-covered arena.

• New Moves: The Crowbell’s attack range increases dramatically with the bell, introducing large sweeping swings and ground slams that send shockwaves your way.

• Best Strategy: Constant movement is your best friend. Bait out the large swings, dodge roll through the shockwaves, and use ranged attacks if possible. Recognizing the attack patterns will help you survive.

Rewards for Beating The Crowbell

Taking down this beast isn’t just for bragging rights—it comes with some sweet rewards.

• Book of Specialization: This is a game-changer, granting you two Weapon Set Passive Skill Points. This can significantly impact your build and is only obtainable once per character.

• Loot Drops: Expect gold, gear, and potentially useful early-game upgrades.

Pro Tips for the Fight

If you’re struggling, here are a few tried-and-tested tactics to help you clinch victory:

• Optimize Your Gear: If you’re lacking damage or survivability, farm a little before engaging. Having the right armor and weapons makes a huge difference.

• Learn the Patterns: Every attack has a tell. Pay attention to The Crowbell’s movements, and react accordingly.

• Use the Environment: While limited, some parts of the arena can be used to your advantage. Stay mobile and control the battlefield.

• Stock Up on Flasks: Health and mana flasks will keep you in the fight longer. Don’t run in empty-handed.

Why Take On The Crowbell?

Some players may wonder if this fight is worth it, since it's optional. The answer? Absolutely. Not only does the Book of Specialization give you a solid early-game advantage, but the fight itself is a great way to hone your combat skills. If you can handle The Crowbell, you'll be better prepared for the tougher fights ahead.

Final Thoughts

The Crowbell is one of those battles that epitomizes what makes Path of Exile 2 so damn satisfying - challenging mechanics, rewarding gameplay, and an opportunity to test your skills. Whether you're a veteran of the franchise or a newcomer, this is one battle you won't want to miss.

Also, if you're looking to stock up on PoE 2 currency, be sure to check out Kit4Game for solid deals that can help you gear up faster. If you're tackling other tough encounters, check out these guides for The Brambleghast, Draven, the Eternal Praetor, and The Executioner to sharpen your strategies.

Now get out there and show The Crowbell who’s boss!