How to stop the poison phase during fight with Balbala in PoE 2

Some boss fights in Path of Exile 2 lack clear indicators or intuitive mechanics, and Balbala the Traitor is a prime example. Found in the Traitor’s Passage during Act 2, this encounter makes the time-limited fight with Mektul in the Molten Vault feel like a walk in the park. Here’s everything you need to know to cancel Balbala’s poison attack, along with other helpful strategies.

• Balbala’s poison attack in PoE 2
• Tips for Balbala boss fight in PoE 2

Balbala’s poison attack in PoE 2

When Balbala vanishes and poison gas begins to spread, circle the arena to locate him. The boss will reappear when you get close enough, and a good pair of headphones with spatial audio can be a great aid during this invisible phase. Touching Balbala will stop the gas, but he’ll immediately unleash a powerful AoE attack. Don’t try to hit the boss and focus on rolling away quickly to stay safe.

Tips for Balbala boss fight in PoE 2

Balbala’s hitbox is unusually small, which makes landing hits, especially with melee attacks, particularly challenging for such a fast-moving boss.

Here are some other tips to help you with this fight:

1. Balbala throws coins that spawn yellow runes. Stepping on a rune prevents an additional enemy from spawning but triggers a damaging AoE attack. Roll away immediately after touching the rune. The coin disappears once the rune is deactivated.
2. Alternatively, you can allow the coins to spawn enemies to use them to trigger On-Kill buffs or other skills. But be cautious. If you don’t control the spawns, you could quickly become overwhelmed by the enemies.
3. Balbala is weak to cold damage but resistant to fire.
4. If you’re a Warrior with a shield, make heavy use of it in this fight. It’s great for blocking yellow daggers, preventing poison debuffs, and more. Shield Charge is especially handy, use it to quickly escape the rain of yellow daggers or to pass over yellow runes.

Path of Exile 2

December 6, 2024

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