In Path of Exile (PoE), the quest "Enemy at the Gate" is one of the first challenges you’ll face as a newly exiled character washed ashore on the dangerous continent of Wraeclast. This quest serves as an introduction to combat and character progression, pitting you against Hillock, a massive zombie that blocks your entry into Lioneye’s Watch, the first town hub in the game. Successfully defeating Hillock not only allows you to enter the safety of the town but also grants you your first skill gem, a key component in defining your character’s abilities. This guide will walk you through the steps of the quest and provide tips on how to overcome your first major obstacle in PoE.
As you begin your journey on the Twilight Strand, you’ll quickly find yourself facing Hillock, a towering undead foe who is terrorizing the entrance to Lioneye’s Watch. Hillock is your first significant enemy and serves as a basic test of your combat skills. Despite his intimidating appearance, Hillock’s attack patterns are straightforward, making this a manageable fight for even the newest players.
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Tips for the Fight:
Once Hillock is defeated, the gate to Lioneye’s Watch will open, granting you access to the town. Lioneye’s Watch serves as your first safe haven in Wraeclast, where you can interact with NPCs, purchase items, and accept new quests.
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Area:
After defeating Hillock, you’ll gain your first level, granting you a passive skill point. This point can be spent on your Passive Skill Tree, which is one of the most critical aspects of character development in Path of Exile. The Passive Skill Tree offers a vast array of choices, allowing you to customize your character’s attributes and playstyle.
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Tips for the Passive Skill Tree:
After leveling up and spending your passive skill point, your next step is to speak with Tarkleigh, an NPC in Lioneye’s Watch who will reward you for your victory over Hillock. Tarkleigh will offer you a selection of skill gems, allowing you to choose one that best fits your character’s class and intended playstyle.
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Tarkleigh’s Dialogue:
Skill Gem Rewards by Class:
Once you’ve chosen your skill gem and equipped it, the "Enemy at the Gate" quest is complete. This marks the beginning of your journey through the dangerous lands of Wraeclast, where greater challenges and rewards await.
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"Enemy at the Gate" is more than just a tutorial quest—it sets the tone for your entire adventure in Path of Exile. By defeating Hillock and entering Lioneye’s Watch, you take your first steps into a world filled with danger, mystery, and powerful enemies. The skills and choices you make here will shape your character’s progression, so take the time to understand the mechanics and build a solid foundation for the challenges ahead.
Good luck, Exile, and may your journey through Wraeclast be filled with victory and powerful loot!