For an ARPG like Diablo 4, it lives and dies by the combat, and thankfully, Blizzard Entertainment's latest gets almost everything right when it comes to facing down the monsters and smashing them to bits. That said, while the mobs are usually easier to deal with, that is not the case when it comes to the bigger dangers.
The number of Elites and bosses that can be encountered in the game is aplenty, but there are just some touchstone encounters worthy of an entry in the history of the franchise. One such fight is against the returning Andariel, the Maiden of Anguish. For those seeking some help on how to beat Andariel in Diablo 4, this is the right place to be.
Who is Andariel in Diablo 4?
The Maiden of Anguish is a familiar sight for those that have been with the franchise for a long time, first making an appearance in Diablo 2 as a Lesser Evil and is brother to Duriel, another dangerous Lesser Evil. She would be mentioned in subsequent adventures before making her full-fledged return in Diablo 4.
She is successfully summoned by Elias after the events of Acts 3 and 4, and it is now time for the player to take her down and stop a new Reign of Anguish.
How to Beat Andariel in Diablo 4
Before the fight even gets going, it is wise to note the limitations with which players find themselves. Rather than the open nature of the overworld in Diablo 4 or even the usual spaces afforded by dungeons, the fight against Andariel takes place in a small arena buffeted by sandstorms. Getting in contact with the sand deals persistent damage, so avoid the edges.
Andariel Boss Fight Stage 1
At the beginning of the fight, Andariel appears as an adversary that is chained up, which allows her to deal out damage in a couple of ways. This includes:
- Casting Rune Chains that can bind and slow down players within an area. Destroy the Rune Chains to be free.
- AoE attacks in the form of red lines will reduce the player's health quickly, so avoid them at all costs. Watch out for branching lines as well, as they can easily catch the unaware off guard.
- Andariel will also teleport around the arena, leaving projectiles in her wake. Check the minimap to figure out her position.
During her attacks, use whatever window is open to deal damage to her and avoid taking unnecessary damage. When she utilizes the AoE attacks, it leaves her exposed to sustained damage as well. Keep up the pressure with upgraded gear and skills, and she will soon move on to the next phase.
Andariel Boss Fight Stage 2
With the first portion of her health drained, Andariel will break free of her chains and grow those familiar appendages and use new attacks in addition to the aforementioned ones. They include:
- Close melee swipes with her pincers, either dash to her back or keep at a distance to prevent damage.
- She can also use an extended chain to attack from both sides, so watch for the telegraph and dodge accordingly.
Naturally, the boss will get more aggressive, so ration those healing potions and use all the skills available to reduce her health as quickly as possible to beat her.
Diablo 4 is available for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.