A better tactic is to bait the slam, dodge it, and counterattack while she’s recovering. Then back off and repeat. This hit-and-run style minimizes risk and allows you to POE2 Currency chip away at her health while staying alive.

Path of Exile 2: How to Defeat Balbala and Conquer the Abandoned Foundry

In Path of Exile 2, Act 1 wastes no time in testing your skills. With brutal enemy mechanics, maze-like environments, and lethal bosses, even early quests can feel like endgame content if you're unprepared. Two standout challenges in the opening act are the boss fight against Balbala and the quest “Finding the Forge,” which tasks you with locating Renly’s Tools in the Abandoned Foundry. These encounters emphasize strategy, movement, and smart use of POE 2 Currency to stay alive and succeed.

This guide walks you through how to approach both of these encounters with confidence—whether you’re dodging Balbala’s poison mist or navigating the deadly corridors of the Foundry.
Balbala: The Poison Queen of Early Wraeclast

Balbala is not your typical early-game boss. Unlike enemies you can brute force, she punishes aggressive players with a deadly slam and area-denial mechanics. Her most dangerous ability is her signature move: turning invisible while releasing a creeping poisonous mist that steadily drains your health. Left unchecked, it can kill you in seconds.

When the mist appears, run along the arena’s perimeter to locate her. She tends to hide in one of the corners. Resist the urge to rush in once she appears—Balbala retaliates with a high-damage slam that can wipe out careless players. Instead, bait out the slam, dodge, and land a few quick hits before repositioning.

Balbala’s battle teaches you the importance of timing, spacing, and patience.
Mastering Balbala's Patterns

This fight is a rhythm of observation and reaction. Stand still too long and she’ll punish you. Overcommit to POE 2 Orbs an attack and you’ll be caught by her counter.