Path of Exile 2: The Executioner - A Complete Guide

As you dive into Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), you've likely encountered The Executioner, one of the major bosses of Act 1. Located in Ogham Village, this challenging battle will test your tactical skills and your ability to dodge deadly AoE attacks. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, this guide will help you understand The Executioner, his movesets, and the best strategies to defeat him to ensure your victory and progress through the game.

Location of The Executioner

The Executioner can be found in Ogham Village, Act 1. Specifically, you'll need to venture to the Executioner's Block, which is located at the far end of Ogham Village. You’ll be heading away from the waypoint, so keep an eye out as the area is filled with enemies, traps, and puzzles.

Ogham Village Layout

Ogham Village is a randomized map, so each player may experience slightly different layouts. However, the Executioner’s location will always be at the end of the map. The area itself is relatively straightforward, but be ready for plenty of enemies and environmental hazards as you make your way to the boss.

How to Beat The Executioner

Taking on The Executioner is no easy task. His attack patterns and abilities are punishing, and he'll test your ability to manage multiple mechanics at once. Here are some key tips to make the fight a little easier.

Tip 1: Stay Out of the AoE Attacks

One of The Executioner's most deadly abilities is his Area of Effect (AoE) attacks. These attacks deal significant damage and are difficult to dodge once they start. The trick to surviving is to keep your distance and always know where the AoE will land. Unlike some other bosses, these AoEs can't be dodged with a simple dodge roll or evasion stat.

Keep moving and never stay in one place for too long. These attacks tend to come in phases, and if you're not careful, they can wipe you out in seconds.

Tip 2: Watch for the Guillotine Blade Attack

The Guillotine attack is one of the trickiest moves to dodge. The Executioner will summon a massive guillotine blade from the sky, and if you’re not quick on your feet, it can deal a devastating blow.

• How to Dodge: When The Executioner begins his attack, you’ll notice circular gusts of wind forming on the ground, which signal where the blade will land. As soon as you spot these gusts, move out of the area and avoid the falling blade. If you’re caught in the attack’s radius, it’s likely a one-shot.

Tip 3: Be Ready for Summons

At some points during the fight, The Executioner will call upon a group of mercenaries to assist him. These mercenaries are a mix of ranged and melee attackers, and they can quickly overwhelm you if you don’t focus them down.

• How to Deal with Mercenaries: The key here is to clear out the mercenaries as quickly as possible. If you leave them alive for too long, you’ll find yourself surrounded, making it difficult to dodge The Executioner’s more dangerous attacks. Take them out one by one and keep your focus on the boss once they’re dealt with.

Tip 4: Recognize the Windup and Counterattack

The Executioner’s Overhead AoE Slam is another move that can cause major trouble. He winds up and slams his weapon into the ground, causing the ground to erupt in a burst of AoE damage.

• How to Dodge: The key to avoiding this is recognizing the windup animation. As soon as you see him begin to raise his weapon for the slam, quickly dodge to the side or move toward him to get out of the area of effect. This move can be tricky, but if you time your dodges right, you can avoid taking any damage.

The Executioner Movesets

Understanding The Executioner’s moves is crucial for this fight. Each of his attacks has specific indicators that you need to watch for. Here’s a breakdown of his main moves and how to dodge or counter them.

1. "The Guillotine... Drops!" (Falling Guillotine)

• Description: The Executioner summons a giant guillotine blade that falls from the sky, dealing AoE damage upon impact.
• How to Dodge: As he raises his weapon like a lever, look for the circular gusts of wind. This will indicate where the blade will land. Quickly move away from that area to avoid getting hit.

2. "Face Your Death!" (Overhead AoE Slam)

• Description: The Executioner slams his weapon into the ground, causing the area around him to explode in AoE damage.
• How to Dodge: Either dodge towards him and move past his hit range or dodge sideways if you're far enough away. This attack is fairly telegraphed, so timing is key.

3. "Justice Will Be Served!" (Overhead Projectile Slam)

• Description: The Executioner raises his weapon and slams it down in a straight line, dealing damage to anyone in its path.
• How to Dodge: Watch for the red glow as a sign that he's about to execute this attack. Quickly dodge to the side or position yourself behind him to avoid the projectile slam.

4. "Kill the Criminal!" (Summon Mercenaries)

• Description: The Executioner calls in a group of mercenaries, both ranged and melee, to assist him in the fight.
• How to Dodge: Focus on eliminating the mercenaries quickly. Leaving them alive can quickly overwhelm you during the fight.

5. Default Attack (Wide Swings)

• Description: The Executioner performs a series of wide, frontal weapon swings that deal melee damage.
• How to Dodge: The key to dodging these swings is to time your dodges properly. Either dodge through the swings or position yourself far enough away to avoid being hit.

The Executioner Overview and Rewards

Basic Information

• Location: Act 1, Ogham Village
• Resistances: Fire
• Weaknesses: None
• Damage Types: Physical
• Debuffs: Burning Ground

Rewards for Defeating The Executioner

Defeating the Executioner will allow you to progress through the Trail of Corruption main quest. As part of the rewards for defeating him, you will earn valuable items, experience, and resources that will help you advance in the game.

The Executioner also has a chance to drop a variety of loot, including weapons, armor, and other valuable items. Be sure to pick up everything you can, as some of these items can be used to upgrade your equipment.

Related Guides

If you’re having trouble with The Executioner or want to get more out of your PoE 2 experience, here are some related guides to help you level up and maximize your playstyle:

• PoE 2 Boss Guide: Learn which character builds are most effective for taking down bosses in PoE 2.
• PoE 2 Currency Guide: Maximize your gear and make the most out of your loot drops.
• The Ultimate Path of Exile 2 Passiv Tree Guide: A comprehensive guide to mastering the basics of PoE 2 skill tree.

Conclusion

Beating the Executioner in Path of Exile 2 is no small feat, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can overcome this challenge. Keep an eye out for his AoE attacks, be quick to dodge his guillotine blade, and focus on killing his summoned mercenaries. By understanding his moveset and following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful Act 1 victory. Keep your wits sharp, and may your loot be plentiful!