Pinnacle of Its Kind: Complete Guide to the Epic Dragon Age Quest

Key Takeaways

1. Preparation Is Key: The “Pinnacle of Its Kind” quest requires careful planning, high-level characters, and strategic party selection.
2. Demon Locations Matter: Finding and defeating demons in specific regions unlocks the final boss battle.
3. Defeating The Formless One: This epic showdown with a powerful dragon form of The Formless One demands skill, patience, and a well-rounded strategy.

In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the “Pinnacle of Its Kind” side quest is an ambitious journey that draws players into a multi-stage battle against deadly demons across Thedas, culminating in a legendary face-off with a draconic demon. Triggering this quest takes commitment, and completing it requires players to be at least level 30 though levelling up to 40 can make the quest less gruelling. Below, we’ll break down each stage of the quest, from unlocking the mission to defeating the formidable Formless One.

How to Begin the Pinnacle of Its Kind Quest

To access “Pinnacle of Its Kind,” players must first complete the Restless Spirits quest, adding Emmrich, a necromancer companion, to their party. Once Restless Spirits concludes, players enter the Necropolis Halls and encounter a massive door guarded by the demon known as The Formless One. Upon interacting with the door, the Pinnacle of Its Kind side quest is triggered.

This quest, which sends players across Thedas, requires them to locate and battle three powerful demons. Only after these demons are vanquished can the final door in the Necropolis Halls be unlocked for the ultimate showdown.

Demon Locations and How to Defeat Them

The three demons are located in specific regions: Dock Town, Arlathan Forest, and Hossberg Wetlands. Each of these demons has unique strengths and vulnerabilities, so customizing your party accordingly is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of each location and how to tackle the demons effectively.

1. Dock Town Demon

To locate this demon, head to Dock Town and travel to The Spillway Beacon in the southeastern region. There, a green-flamed brazier awaits. Interacting with it summons The Formless One, whose Dock Town version attacks primarily with Shock-based abilities.

• Weaknesses: Vulnerable to Necrotic attacks, which makes Emmrich an ideal companion here.
• Best Strategy: Avoid the demon’s area-of-effect (AoE) lightning attacks and capitalize on Necrotic attacks. Having characters with strong resistance to Shock can also be beneficial.

2. Arlathan Forest Demon

Next, make your way to Arlathan Forest, specifically to the Nameless Building Beacon on the northeastern side. Head west until you find a tattered bridge, cross it, and extinguish the green flame brazier to summon the demon.

• Weaknesses: This version of the Formless One is susceptible to Shock-based damage but resists Necrotic.
• Best Strategy: Employ Shock-based spells and attacks. If you have Bellara in your party, her abilities are particularly effective. Be prepared for additional summoned enemies that the demon may call for reinforcements.

3. Hossberg Wetlands Demon

For the final demon, head to Solitude’s Edge in Hossberg Wetlands, an area accessible after solving the Gaspin Manor puzzle. When you arrive near the Blight Cyst, interact with the brazier to summon the last form of the Formless One.

• Weaknesses: This fire-themed demon is vulnerable to Cold damage.
• Best Strategy: Equip Cold-based attacks, possibly from Neve or another mage character with Cold magic. The confined space makes the demon’s fiery attacks especially deadly, so dodge with precision and keep your distance where possible.

Unsealing the Door in Necropolis Halls

Once all three demons are defeated, return to the Necropolis Halls. The giant door that previously blocked your path will now open, revealing The Formless One in its true form: a high dragon possessed by the demon.

This final version of The Formless One is the ultimate test, combining a formidable dragon’s power with the demon’s agility and strength. Here’s how to prepare for and defeat this boss.

How to Defeat The Formless One in Its Dragon Form

Upon entering the sealed room, you’ll find The Formless One in its high dragon form, an intimidating level 40 opponent. It’s recommended to have a party geared up with Shock resistance, Necrotic abilities, and at least one healer to endure the extended battle.

Key Attacks and Counters

The Formless One’s dragon form employs a range of devastating attacks. Here’s what to expect and how to counter each:

1. Ranged Lightning Attack: The dragon telegraphs this move by pulling back its head before releasing a blast of lightning. Stay on the move to avoid it.
2. Dive Bomb: The dragon will glow red before lunging forward. Dodge as it charges to avoid being hit.
3. Stomp and Tail Swipe: This combo attack can be avoided by staying near the dragon’s head or torso and quickly moving when it telegraphs the swipe.
4. Ground Pound: A red circle appears around Rook, indicating an incoming attack. Dodge quickly to avoid the impact.

Battle Strategy

• Bring a Healer: Characters like Bellara or Neve can provide critical healing support. The dragon’s relentless attacks make healing essential for survival.
• Focus on Weak Spots: Occasionally, one of the dragon’s limbs will glow, indicating vulnerability. Prioritize attacking these areas to maximize damage and stagger the dragon.
• Dodge Smartly: When the dragon takes to the air, watch for a shrinking circle on the ground indicating its landing. Time your dodge just as it lands to avoid damage.
• Eliminate Smaller Enemies: During the fight, additional enemies will spawn. Though they can be distracting, it’s wise to clear them out quickly as their ranged attacks can become a threat.

With patience and strategy, you can wear down the Formless One’s health, eventually defeating it and claiming victory over one of Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s toughest foes.

Pinnacle of Its Kind Rewards

Completing the “Pinnacle of Its Kind” quest yields a wealth of rewards, from experience points to powerful artifacts. Here’s what you can expect:

1. 1,000 XP: Levelling up is a guaranteed reward for taking down the Formless One, giving Rook and their party a boost in experience.
2. Dragon Tooth and Dragonfire Catalysts: These rare items can be used in powerful crafting recipes or sold for high value.
3. Faction Strength: +200 Mourn Watch Strength and +300 Lords of Fortune Strength, enhancing your influence.
4. Unique Armor Set: Around the arena, explore and open chests to find a unique armor set, providing excellent bonuses in battle.

These rewards aren’t just valuable in gameplay; they’re also critical for unlocking one of The Veilguard’s secret endings, adding a meaningful conclusion to your journey.

FAQs

How do I trigger the Pinnacle of Its Kind quest? To trigger the quest, complete Restless Spirits and add Emmrich to your party. Then, explore the Necropolis Halls and interact with the large door to start the quest.

What level should I be for this quest? Although level 30 is technically enough, level 40 makes the final battle much easier. Upgrading gear and companions will also help greatly.

What should I bring for the final battle? Equip Shock resistance armor, bring a healer, and use characters with Necrotic abilities, as the dragon is vulnerable to Necrotic attacks.

What happens if I defeat The Formless One? You receive XP, rare items, and faction strength boosts, along with a unique armor set. Defeating The Formless One is also necessary to access a secret ending.

In tackling this formidable side quest, players will discover some of the richest, most challenging content in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. By carefully following this guide and preparing accordingly, you’ll conquer the demons, defeat The Formless One, and unlock rare rewards.