Conquering Strongholds in Diablo 4 can be challenging, but it's also extremely rewarding. This is especially so with the Ruins of Yara-Qisu. Once you clear this Stronghold in the southeastern Dry Steppes, you'll have access to a new Waypoint and two brand-new dungeons.
But charging into Strongholds unprepared is never a good idea. It's usually best to stock up on potions, make sure your gear and skills are up-to-date, and maybe even join a party. If all else fails, here's a handy guide that will help you navigate the trials of the Ruins of Yara-Qisu.
Find And Destroy The Infernal Spires
There are three Infernal Spires spread around the ruins, and the fight to destroy each Spire is the same every time. Once you approach a Spire, you'll be attacked by a group of demons led by two Elites. All these Elites make the Ruins of Qara-Yisu perfect for some fast XP. Focus on the non-Elite caster demons first because their magic attacks can stack up against you very quickly.
One of the two Elite demons that spawn each time will have a name, and one will be called "Cursed Yasuni." Target the Cursed Yasuni next. They have an additional magical buff and can actually deal more damage than the named demons. The Infernal Spires themselves are rather helpless. If they aren't destroyed by AOE damage at some point, they can be taken care of very easily at this point.
This Stronghold is arranged more or less in a circular pattern, with many alternate routes between. After clearing your first Infernal Spire, circle around in either direction to find the next one. You can also check the world map and zoom in on your location to see their icons.
How To Defeat Utulku, The Voice Below
All throughout your conquest of the Ruins of Yara-Qisu, you'll notice the sounds of a disembodied voice growing angry at your success. That voice belongs to Utulku, a masterfully powerful demon warlock. You'll fight him and his legion after you destroy all three Infernal Spires. This is the kind of fight you'll want to upgrade potions for in Diablo 4.
Legion is an adequate word for the vast number of demons that Utulku spawns at the start of the encounter. Clear out these mobs as quickly as possible so that you can start to deal with the boss itself. Periodically, Utulku will summon more demons that you should dispatch with similar haste.
But once the first vast army is cleared, the demon wizard actually doesn't seem to spawn very often. Utulku's main move is actually a series of lightning bolts. Watch out for the red rings, which show where the lightning bolts are going to strike. At first, it'll only cast two bolts at a time, rising to five lightning bolts as you start to get closer to victory. Keep dodging or finding other ways to evade those bolts, and you'll conquer this Stronghold in no time.