How to Enter the Black Cathedral in Path of Exile 2
Path of Exile 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved Path of Exile, continues to captivate players with its dark, atmospheric world, intricate mechanics, and relentless endgame content. As players venture through the vast world of Wraeclast, they will encounter all sorts of dangerous locales, including the infamous Black Cathedral, an eerie, ominous structure filled with deadly enemies and complex puzzles.
However, one of the most thrilling aspects of this new area is the ability to face off against one of the most menacing bosses in the game: Kulemak, a cruel and powerful figure who commands the forces of the Black Cathedral. But instead of merely engaging in another standard boss fight, Path of Exile 2 offers players a chance to literally punch Kulemak in the face-a mechanic that's part of the game's unique blend of over-the-top action and player choice.
In this article, we'll cover how to enter the Black Cathedral and punch Kulemak in the face in Path of Exile 2, breaking down the process step by step and offering essential tips and tricks for players looking to conquer this exciting challenge. Of course, you can also choose whether or not to utilize Poe 2 trade.
What is the Black Cathedral?
The Black Cathedral is a new area introduced in Path of Exile 2. It is a foreboding, towering structure where the game's darker lore comes to life. The cathedral is home to Kulemak, a powerful and tyrannical figure who controls an army of monsters, traps, and dark magic. Kulemak's sinister influence over the cathedral is one of the primary reasons why it is so dangerous to enter, and the environment reflects that.
The Black Cathedral is a dungeon-like space, with labyrinthine corridors, traps, and powerful enemies lurking in every corner. It's designed to be an endgame challenge, filled with high-level mechanics, secret areas, and incredibly tough enemies. But for those brave enough (and powerful enough), the reward is great.
At the heart of this dungeon lies Kulemak, a powerful boss who tests players' mettle. Kulemak has a reputation for being particularly cruel and unforgiving, employing a wide range of tricks and powerful spells to defeat adventurers. However, there's an extra layer to the fight-Path of Exile 2 gives you a unique, hilarious option to punch Kulemak in the face, offering an opportunity for some lighthearted fun amidst the chaos.
How to Enter the Black Cathedral
Before you can face Kulemak and deliver that satisfying punch, you first need to know how to enter the Black Cathedral. While it's part of the main storyline, accessing it requires specific steps. Here's what you need to do:
1. Progress Through the Main Storyline
The Black Cathedral is not immediately accessible at the beginning of the game. You will need to progress through the story of Path of Exile 2 until you reach the part of the narrative that leads you to the cathedral. This will involve defeating bosses and completing quests that unlock the dungeon.
Make sure that you've completed the necessary quests, such as the Act completion and any side quests that introduce you to the Black Cathedral's lore. As the story unfolds, you will encounter clues and plot elements that point you toward the cathedral.
2. Reach the Endgame and Unlock the Black Cathedral Zone
After progressing through the main story, you'll eventually unlock the Black Cathedral as part of your endgame progression. The Black Cathedral is not just a regular dungeon-it's an endgame boss zone that requires a higher level of preparedness and strength to tackle. As such, you'll want to ensure that your character is well-geared, leveled up, and ready for the challenges that lie within.
3. Activate the Black Cathedral Entrance
Once you've unlocked the Black Cathedral, you'll need to find the entrance to the cathedral itself. This is typically located in a key location in the Path of Exile 2 world, often hidden behind puzzles or challenges. Keep an eye out for ancient sigils, hidden keys, or secret doors that lead you toward the cathedral.
Interacting with these elements will unlock the Black Cathedral Zone, allowing you to enter. It's also possible that certain optional quests or relics are required to fully activate the entrance, so ensure you've checked all the side objectives in the area.
How to Punch Kulemak in the Face
Once inside the Black Cathedral, you'll face the ultimate challenge: Kulemak. But before you can do battle with this tyrant, you'll need to understand the mechanics of the fight-and specifically, how to engage in the unique mechanic of punching Kulemak in the face.
The idea of physically punching Kulemak in the face might sound like a joke or a one-off gag, but it's actually a deeply embedded gameplay mechanic that adds an extra layer of humor and satisfaction to the fight.
Here's how to trigger the punching mechanic:
1. Initiate the Kulemak Boss Fight
To begin the encounter, you'll need to approach Kulemak and start the battle as usual. This will involve engaging in typical boss mechanics, dodging his attacks, and managing adds (additional enemies). Kulemak will use a variety of magical spells, summon minions, and environmental hazards to try and overwhelm you.
2. Unlock the Punch Mechanism
As the battle progresses, Kulemak will taunt you, offering opportunities to engage with him in a more physical and humorous manner. At a certain point during the fight, Kulemak will make an offhand comment, such as "Are you too weak to face me?" or "Come, show me what you've got."
At this moment, you'll notice an interaction prompt appear on your screen that allows you to punch Kulemak in the face. This may be triggered after certain phases of the fight, when Kulemak is particularly vulnerable, or after completing specific in-fight tasks (like defeating all adds or avoiding a key mechanic). The interaction prompt might require pressing a specific key or using a unique ability to unleash the punch.
3. Execute the Punch
When the moment arrives, engage with the prompt to deliver a satisfying punch directly to Kulemak's face. This is typically a cinematic interaction, where your character will physically strike Kulemak, stunning him and triggering a brief cutscene. The punch will also deal a significant amount of damage to Kulemak-enough to give you an advantage in the fight.
Not only does this act provide a visual and narrative thrill, but it also serves as a tactical moment in the battle, leaving Kulemak disoriented and offering you a window of opportunity to deal additional damage.
4. Finish the Fight
After delivering the punch, continue with the rest of the fight. Kulemak will likely regain his composure and resume his assault, but now you'll have a clear advantage. Use the opening created by your punch to deal as much damage as possible and take down Kulemak once and for all.
Once defeated, you'll be rewarded with loot and possibly a unique item related to the Black Cathedral theme. The punch will also serve as a symbolic victory over Kulemak, showing that you've conquered one of the most dangerous forces in Path of Exile 2.
Tips for Beating Kulemak
Bring a well-balanced build: Kulemak's fight can be challenging due to his varied mechanics, so make sure your build can handle both damage and survivability. Prepare for heavy hits, adds, and environmental traps.
Manage adds efficiently: Kulemak will summon minions, and failing to manage them could overwhelm you. Focus on eliminating adds quickly, especially during his more vulnerable phases.
Timing is crucial: The punch mechanic requires precise timing. Be aware of when Kulemak is taunting you and be ready to trigger the interaction at the right moment.
Conclusion
Entering the Black Cathedral and delivering a satisfying punch to Kulemak's face in Path of Exile 2 is one of the most thrilling, humorous, and rewarding moments in the game. It combines intense combat with a unique interaction mechanic that showcases the game's signature blend of humor and action. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to unlock the Black Cathedral, engage with Kulemak, and experience the satisfaction of putting a tyrant in his place with a well-timed punch. If you want to clear levels faster, cheap POE 2 Orbs on mmoexp can help you become stronger more quickly.
Prepare yourself for the dangers that lie ahead in the Black Cathedral, and get ready to deliver justice-one punch at a time.