The Matriarch is a massive ARC machine that makes the Queen seem tame by comparison. She only appears when her dedicated map condition/modifier is active, and the encounter can swing from brutal to manageable depending on how well her “children” protect her.
Attacks
- Rockets: launches multiple explosive homing rockets.
- Gas Mortars: fires gas mortars that burst on impact into stamina-draining clouds.
- Energy Shield: deploys a projectile-absorbing shield that can’t be destroyed, but Raiders can pass through it.
- Flashbangs: fires several flashbang rounds that detonate after a short delay, blinding and deafening Raiders.
- Summons: calls in supporting ARC units, including Fireballs, Wasps, Leapers, Bastions, Bombardiers, Rocketeers, and more.
Positioning: High ground and cover
If her adds fail to pressure you, the fight becomes much easier. Strong examples of safe/advantage spots include:
- Spaceport: Control Tower A6 and the Launch Towers
- Dam Battlegrounds: the ledges and “tunnels” at The Breach
- Blue Gate: on top of Reinforced Reception, ideally with deployable barricades
Weak points
Don’t waste time shooting the legs. Focus on her face plates once they break off, her large red glowing core becomes exposed.
Combat notes
Her most threatening move is the rocket barrage; most other attacks are comparatively easier to manage. When the energy shield is up, either stop firing and wait it out, or take the riskier option: push inside the shield and shoot at the now-accessible core.
