Vow Of The Disciple Champions: A Comprehensive Guide To Raid Bosses

what champions are in vow of the disciple

*Vow of the Disciple*, the latest raid introduced in *Destiny 2*, takes guardians deep into the heart of the Black Temple on the moon, where they confront the secrets of the Scorn and their enigmatic leader, Rhulk, the Final God. This raid features a roster of formidable champions that players must overcome to progress through its intricate encounters. Among these adversaries are the Disciple Praetorians, powerful combatants who wield unique abilities and serve as key obstacles in the raid’s early stages. Additionally, Rhulk himself stands as the ultimate challenge, a towering and complex boss whose mechanics demand coordination, strategy, and precision from fireteams. Each champion in *Vow of the Disciple* is designed to test players’ skills, teamwork, and adaptability, making this raid a thrilling and rewarding experience for seasoned guardians.

Characteristics Values
Raid Name Vow of the Disciple
Champions Rhulk, Disciple of the Witness
Location Pyramid Ship, Savathûn’s Throne World
Raid Release February 22, 2022 (The Witch Queen Expansion)
Recommended Power 1550 (as of latest updates)
Encounter Count 6 Major Encounters
Key Mechanics Lucent Hive, Darkness Abilities, Puzzle Solving
Loot Highlights Collective Obligation (Rocket Launcher), Lubrae’s Ruin (Hand Cannon)
Exotic Quest Vexcalibur (Sword, obtained through raid-specific quest)
Unique Feature First raid to feature a solo-friendly encounter (Exhibition)
Lore Significance Reveals details about the Witness, Rhulk, and the origins of the Darkness
Difficulty Modes Normal, Master (added later)
Matchmaking Available for the first encounter only
Player Requirement 6-player Fireteam
Time to Complete ~1.5–3 hours (depending on team experience)

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Rhulk, the Final God: Main boss, Disciple of the Witness, wielding unique abilities and mechanics

Rhulk, the Final God, stands as the apex predator within the Vow of the Disciple raid, a testament to Bungie's ingenuity in crafting formidable adversaries. As the main boss and devoted Disciple of the Witness, Rhulk embodies the culmination of the raid's thematic and mechanical challenges. His design is a masterclass in complexity, blending unique abilities with intricate mechanics that demand precision, coordination, and adaptability from fireteams. Unlike other raid bosses, Rhulk’s encounter is not merely a test of damage output but a puzzle that requires players to decipher and execute a series of precise actions under relentless pressure.

To dismantle Rhulk, guardians must first understand his arsenal. His signature ability, the *Abomination*, forces players to manage a debuff that explodes upon reaching its limit, necessitating strategic movement and timing. Additionally, Rhulk wields the *Particle Deconstruction* attack, a sweeping laser that carves through the arena, demanding constant repositioning. These mechanics are further compounded by the need to cleanse the *Scorn Abomination* adds, which spawn throughout the fight, adding layers of chaos to an already intense encounter.

The fight unfolds in phases, each introducing new challenges while retaining earlier mechanics, creating a crescendo of difficulty. In the final phase, Rhulk unleashes his full power, summoning a *Pyramid Ship* that rains down devastating attacks. Here, the team must balance damage with survival, all while navigating the arena’s collapsing platforms. This phase is a true test of a fireteam’s ability to communicate and execute under extreme duress, making Rhulk one of Destiny 2’s most unforgiving encounters.

For those seeking to conquer Rhulk, preparation is key. Ensure your team has a clear strategy for add control, debuff management, and role assignment. Communication tools like Discord are invaluable, as split-second decisions often determine success or failure. Loadouts should prioritize high single-target damage for Rhulk and area-of-effect capabilities for adds. Exotic weapons like *Anarchy* or *Divinity* can significantly streamline the encounter, while well-timed supers can create windows of opportunity.

Ultimately, Rhulk, the Final God, is more than just a boss—he is a benchmark for raid design. His encounter encapsulates the essence of Destiny 2’s endgame: a blend of challenge, creativity, and camaraderie. Defeating him not only rewards players with loot but also a sense of accomplishment that few other encounters can match. For guardians daring enough to face him, Rhulk promises a battle that will test their limits and leave an indelible mark on their raid journey.

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Exhibition of Light: First encounter, solving puzzles to activate orbs and defeat enemies

The Exhibition of Light in Vow of the Disciple is a masterclass in blending puzzle-solving with combat, demanding both precision and teamwork. As you step into this encounter, the arena reveals itself as a labyrinth of light and shadow, with three central orbs suspended above. These orbs are the key to progression, but activating them requires solving intricate puzzles while fending off relentless enemies. The first encounter sets the tone for the raid’s complexity, forcing teams to divide tasks efficiently: one group deciphers the puzzle mechanics, while the other manages enemy waves. Fail to balance these priorities, and the encounter becomes a chaotic scramble. Success hinges on clear communication and role assignment, making this a defining test of coordination early in the raid.

To solve the puzzles, players must interact with plates scattered across the arena, each corresponding to a specific orb. Stepping on a plate illuminates a path of light, but maintaining that connection requires constant movement and awareness. The twist? Only certain plates activate the orbs, and the correct sequence changes with each attempt. Teams must designate a "caller" to observe the arena from a vantage point, guiding plate runners through the correct order. Meanwhile, enemies like Psions and Wizards spawn in waves, targeting both puzzle solvers and defenders. Ignoring these foes leads to swift wipes, as their abilities disrupt plate mechanics and deal significant damage. The interplay between puzzle-solving and combat is relentless, rewarding teams that can multitask under pressure.

A critical strategy involves prioritizing enemy types based on their threat level. Psions, for instance, must be eliminated quickly to prevent their disabling attacks from interrupting plate runners. Similarly, Wizards should be targeted early to avoid their high-damage AOE abilities. Defenders should position themselves near the central area, providing cover for puzzle solvers while managing adds. Communication is paramount; teams should establish clear callouts for plate sequences and enemy priorities. For example, "Plate 3, then 1, then 4" paired with "Psion left, Wizard right" ensures everyone knows their role. This structured approach minimizes confusion and maximizes efficiency, turning a chaotic encounter into a choreographed dance.

One common mistake teams make is neglecting to adapt to the dynamic puzzle mechanics. The correct plate sequence isn’t static; it shifts with each attempt, requiring constant observation and flexibility. Teams that fail to assign a dedicated observer often find themselves repeating the same incorrect sequence, wasting time and resources. Another pitfall is overcommitting to puzzle-solving at the expense of enemy management. Even a single unchecked Psion can disrupt the entire encounter by disabling plate runners. To avoid this, teams should rotate defensive responsibilities, ensuring at least two players are always focused on add control. By striking this balance, teams can activate all three orbs and progress to the next phase without unnecessary wipes.

In conclusion, the Exhibition of Light’s first encounter is a microcosm of Vow of the Disciple’s design philosophy: challenging, layered, and deeply rewarding. It demands not just mechanical skill but also strategic thinking and teamwork. By mastering the puzzle mechanics, prioritizing enemy threats, and maintaining clear communication, teams can navigate this encounter with confidence. The lessons learned here—coordination, adaptability, and role specialization—lay the foundation for tackling the raid’s more complex challenges. Approach this encounter with patience and precision, and it becomes not just a hurdle but a showcase of your team’s synergy and problem-solving prowess.

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Challenger’s Gauntlet: Platforming section with rotating rooms, requiring teamwork and precision

The Challengers Gauntlet in Vow of the Disciple is a masterclass in coordination and spatial awareness, demanding that fireteams navigate a series of rotating rooms with precision. Unlike traditional platforming sections, the dynamic environment here introduces a layer of complexity that punishes individual heroics and rewards synchronized movement. Each room rotates independently, shifting platforms and hazards in ways that require constant communication and adaptability. Success hinges on understanding the rotation patterns, anticipating shifts, and trusting your teammates to execute their roles flawlessly.

To tackle this section effectively, assign roles based on each player’s strengths. One player should focus on scouting ahead, calling out platform movements and hazards, while another takes the lead in timing jumps and guiding the group. The third player acts as a safety net, ready to revive or assist if someone slips. Communication is non-negotiable—use concise calls like “rotate left,” “jump now,” or “wait for alignment” to keep everyone on the same page. Practice patience; rushing often leads to wipes, while deliberate movement increases your chances of survival.

The rotating rooms are unforgiving, but they also offer a unique opportunity to refine your team’s synergy. Observe how the platforms align and misalign, and use this knowledge to plan your route. For example, if a room rotates clockwise, position yourselves on the outer edge to minimize the distance you need to jump. Use grenades or abilities sparingly but strategically—a well-timed Titan barricade or Warlock rift can stabilize a precarious jump, while a Hunter’s dodge can reposition quickly during a rotation.

One of the most challenging aspects of this section is the psychological pressure it imposes. The constant motion creates a sense of urgency, but panicking will only lead to mistakes. Instead, adopt a calm, methodical approach. Treat each room as a puzzle, breaking it down into manageable steps. For instance, in the room with the large spinning fan, time your jumps to align with the fan’s blades, using the brief windows of safety to advance. Remember, the gauntlet is designed to test not just your reflexes but your ability to remain composed under pressure.

Ultimately, the Challengers Gauntlet is a testament to the game’s emphasis on teamwork and precision. It’s not about who can jump the farthest or react the fastest—it’s about how well you can work together to overcome a constantly shifting environment. By mastering this section, you’ll not only progress through Vow of the Disciple but also strengthen the bonds within your fireteam. Approach it with patience, practice, and a shared sense of purpose, and you’ll emerge victorious, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

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Caretaker Encounter: Fight against Wyvern and Caretaker, managing adds and mechanics

The Caretaker encounter in Vow of the Disciple is a complex and dynamic fight that demands precise coordination, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both boss and ad mechanics. This phase pits your fireteam against the Caretaker and a Wyvern, while also requiring meticulous management of adds and environmental hazards. Success hinges on clear communication, role assignment, and the ability to prioritize threats in a constantly shifting battlefield.

Phase Breakdown and Role Assignment:

The fight unfolds in two distinct phases, each with its own challenges. During the first phase, the Caretaker remains stationary, channeling energy into the Wyvern. This is your window to damage the Wyvern while dealing with waves of Scorn adds. Assign two players to focus solely on add control, prioritizing Snipers and Captains that can disrupt your damage phase. The remaining four players should concentrate on the Wyvern, ensuring consistent DPS while avoiding its devastating breath attack.

Mechanic Mastery: Suppressor and Debuffs:

A crucial mechanic involves the Suppressor, a device that must be activated to weaken the Caretaker. One player needs to be designated as the Suppressor runner, timing their activation to coincide with the Wyvern's vulnerability phases. Additionally, players must be mindful of the "Suppressed" debuff, which reduces damage output. This debuff is applied when standing in the Suppressor's aura, so careful positioning is essential.

Add Management and Environmental Awareness:

Scorn adds spawn continuously throughout the encounter, threatening to overwhelm your team if left unchecked. Prioritize high-damage adds like Abominations and prioritize suppressing Captains to prevent them from empowering other enemies. Utilize the environment to your advantage: the platforms surrounding the arena provide temporary cover and can be used to split up add groups for easier management.

Phase Two: Caretaker Awakens:

Once the Wyvern is defeated, the Caretaker becomes mobile and significantly more aggressive. This phase demands even greater coordination and awareness. The Caretaker will teleport around the arena, unleashing powerful attacks and summoning more formidable adds. The Suppressor mechanic remains crucial, but now the runner must be constantly on the move, activating it at strategic locations to create safe zones and weaken the boss.

Victory Through Adaptability:

The Caretaker encounter is a test of your fireteam's ability to adapt to a constantly evolving battlefield. Success requires a delicate balance between focused DPS, efficient add control, and precise execution of mechanics. By understanding the phases, assigning roles effectively, and maintaining constant communication, your fireteam can overcome this challenging encounter and claim victory over the Caretaker.

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Rhulk Encounter: Final boss fight, phases involving damage, platforming, and relic usage

The Rhulk encounter in Vow of the Disciple is a culmination of challenges, blending damage phases, precision platforming, and strategic relic usage. Unlike other raid bosses, Rhulk demands constant adaptation, as each phase introduces new mechanics that test both individual skill and team coordination. Understanding the flow of the fight and mastering the use of the Scorn Relic are critical to success.

Phase Breakdown: Damage and Mechanics

The fight begins with a damage phase where Rhulk is vulnerable, but his attacks escalate quickly. Players must prioritize destroying his Weakening Orbs to reduce his damage output while avoiding his devastating slam attacks. During this phase, the Scorn Relic becomes a lifeline—it’s used to cleanse the team of Debuff stacks, which accumulate over time and can wipe the raid if left unchecked. Communication is key here; assign roles for orb destruction, relic usage, and add management to maintain efficiency.

Platforming Precision: The Discs of Light

As the fight progresses, Rhulk retreats to the center, and the arena transforms. Players must navigate a series of rotating Discs of Light, a platforming challenge that requires timing and spatial awareness. Falling means death, and the discs’ speed increases with each phase, adding pressure. The relic plays a dual role here: it’s used to activate safe zones on the discs, but it also requires one player to carry it, limiting their mobility. Teams must balance relic duty with platforming, often swapping carriers mid-jump to avoid wipes.

Relic Mastery: The Key to Victory

The Scorn Relic is the fight’s defining mechanic. It’s used to cleanse debuffs, activate safe zones, and damage Rhulk during his final phase. However, its power comes with a cost: the relic carrier takes increased damage and cannot revive teammates. Teams should rotate relic duty to avoid burnout and ensure survival. During the final phase, the relic must be used to destroy Rhulk’s shield, exposing him to damage. This requires precise timing and coordination, as the shield regenerates quickly.

Takeaway: A Test of Versatility

The Rhulk encounter is a masterclass in raid design, blending DPS, platforming, and relic management into a seamless experience. Success hinges on adaptability—teams must switch roles fluidly, communicate under pressure, and execute mechanics with precision. While the fight is unforgiving, mastering it rewards players with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of raid mechanics. Whether you’re a seasoned raider or a newcomer, Rhulk’s encounter is a benchmark for what Destiny 2 raids can achieve.

Frequently asked questions

Vow of the Disciple is a raid in Destiny 2, released in Season 16, that takes place in the Black Temple on the Moon and revolves around the story of the Lucent Hive and their leader, Rhulk.

Vow of the Disciple consists of six encounters: the first three are boss fights, the fourth is a puzzle, the fifth is a platforming section, and the final encounter is the showdown with Rhulk, the raid's main boss.

The recommended Power level for Vow of the Disciple is 1550 for the first three encounters, 1560 for the next two, and 1570 for the final encounter with Rhulk. However, players often attempt the raid at lower Power levels with a well-coordinated team.

Vow of the Disciple offers exclusive weapons and armor, including the raid-specific weapon, Collective Obligation (a Void scout rifle), and the Disciple's Decree armor set for each class. Additionally, there’s a chance to earn the exotic pulse rifle, Vexcalibur, from the final chest.

Yes, Vow of the Disciple has several hidden chests and secrets. Notable examples include a hidden chest in the first encounter, a secret area in the fourth encounter (the puzzle), and a hidden triumph related to the raid's lore. Exploring thoroughly can yield additional rewards.

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