Hades 2: How To Defeat Root-Stalker

This mini-boss can be a hurdle for many in the early stages of the game. Check out our guide on how to easily defeat Root-Stalker in Hades 2.

Hades 2: How To Defeat Root-Stalker
Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld (Image via Supergiant Games)

Supergiant Games’ Hades 2 builds on the fast-paced combat and deep lore of the first title. You play as Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld, on a quest to confront the Titan of Time. One of the first skill checks in the game is the Root-Stalker enemy, a mini-boss in the Erebus area.

While not the most formidable foe, its aggressive moveset can easily overwhelm both newcomers and veterans. Understanding the first encounter with Root-Stalker is important for building momentum in your runs early. In this article, we explain where you can find Root-Stalker and how to defeat it in Hades 2.

Where To Find Root-Stalker in Hades 2

Root-Stalker is found in one of the first biomes in Erebus.
Root-Stalker is a mini-boss in Erebus (Image via Supergiant Games | @Murp Flurp/YouTube)

The Root-Stalker is found in the Mourning Fields, one of the first biomes in Erebus. It is one of two guardians you encounter here, blocking your progress to the next area. This fight serves as an introduction to tougher enemies, teaching you how to prioritise and manage multiple threats.

Root-Stalker’s Moveset

The Root-Stalker enemy in Hades 2.
Melinoë fights off Root-Stalker in Hades 2 (Image via Supergiant Games | @Wazzup Nerd Insider/YouTube)

Root-Stalker can easily end your run early if you aren’t careful with its moves. This mini-boss will change its moveset depending on how close you are to it. Here are the attacks that you should be aware of:

  • Companion Vine: The Root-Stalker summons a root that travels underground and emerges nearby to attack.
  • Thorn Barrage: The mini-boss fires a wave of thorns at you from a distance.
  • Ground Roots: The boss places entangling roots on the ground that stun you if you walk over them.
  • Swiping Claws: If you get close to the Root-Stalker, it performs a slashing attack with its claws.

How To Defeat Root-Stalker in Hades 2

Root-Stalker is not a formidable foe in Hades 2 if you are ready. It can easily be defeated with patience and strategy. Here’s a list of Boons that can give you an advantage in the fight:

Best Boons To Defeat Root-Stalker

Boons of Hestia in Hades 2 (Image via Supergiant Games | @Murp Flurp/YouTube)
Boons of Hestia in Hades 2 (Image via Supergiant Games | @Murp Flurp/YouTube)

While you may not have a full build during your first encounter, these boons are effective against Root-Stalker when you face it again:

GodBoonEffect
ApolloNova FlourishYour Specials deal more damage in a larger area.
ApolloNova StrikeYour Attacks deal more damage in a larger area.
HestiaFlame StrikeCurse enemies with scorch who take fire damage over time.
HestiaSoot SprintRunning destroys projectiles and inflicts scorch on foes that fired.
ZeusStorm RingYour Cast creates bolts of lightning that strike enemies bound in the circle.

Tips And Tricks To Defeat Root-Stalker

Remember, patience is key if you want to win against Root-Stalker. Here are some tips and tricks that you can employ to defeat Root-Stalker in Hades 2:

  • Keep moving during the fight. Circle around the mini-boss to avoid thorns and roots.
  • Destroying the Companion Vine should be your priority, as you can lose track of it during Root-Stalker’s other attacks.
  • Only commit to attacking the Root-Stalker after you’ve dodged its attacks.
  • Employ a hit-and-run approach. Dash in, land a few hits if you see an opening, and then dodge away.
  • Instead of landing heavy hits, try to minimize risk by slowly draining its health through quick attacks.

Hades 2 logo.

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