Earthquake
A weapon that turns the ground beneath enemies into a chaotic, crushing nightmare.
Earthquake is a legendary artifact weapon in the Pillars of Eternity universe, appearing as either a unique two-handed sword or maul for the Deadfire expedition. It channels raw seismic energy, letting wielders shake the battlefield with tremors that mirror the earth's anger. This powerful item typically rewards those exploring the deepest ruins or besting the formidable guardians watching over ancient secrets.
- Type
- Artifact Weapon
- Category
- Two-Handed Melee (Sword/Maul)
- Elemental Affinity
- Earth / Kinetic
- Acquisition Source
- Deadfire Expansion Content
- Rarity
- Legendary
- Notable Effect
- Area-of-Effect Tremor Damage
Lore & Background
The history of Earthquake is shrouded in the mists of time, likely originating from a civilization that sought to harness tectonic forces for warfare or defense. It has passed through many hands, often ending up with those who possess the strength to wield such volatile power without being consumed by it. In the Deadfire archipelago, where volcanic activity and unstable islands are common, this weapon feels strangely at home, its hum echoing the restless earth of the region.
In Their Own Story
The dead silence of the tomb was broken not by a shout, but by a low, grinding rumble that vibrated through the soles of the Exiled's boots. As they raised Earthquake, the air grew heavy with dust and the scent of ozone. With a single swing, the artifact cleaved the stone floor rather than the enemy, sending a shockwave rippling outward. The ground heaved like a living thing, swallowing the ambushers whole as the weapon sang its song of ruin.
Reader's Guide
Earthquake is acquired during the Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire expansion, typically found within high-level dungeons or as a drop from elite enemies guarding ancient ruins in the archipelago. Its origin story ties it to the volatile geology of the region, suggesting it was crafted by artisans who understood how to bind tectonic fury into metal. Mechanically, this weapon excels at crowd control and area denial. When wielded, it deals significant physical damage with a chance to trigger seismic effects that knock enemies prone or deal additional earth-based damage in an area around the target. This makes it ideal for breaking enemy formations and punishing clustered foes. In terms of lore significance, Earthquake represents the raw, untamed power of nature weaponized by human ambition. It is a reminder that even in a world governed by spirits and magic, the physical earth holds a terrifying strength.
Did You Know?
- The weapon's design often reflects the unstable volcanic history of the Deadfire archipelago where it is found.
- Wielding Earthquake can cause environmental hazards to trigger more frequently in certain dungeon encounters.
- It is one of the few artifacts that specifically targets enemy positioning by forcing them off their feet.
- Some scholars believe the weapon was originally a tool for terraforming before being repurposed as a weapon.
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Elsewhere in the Pillars of Eternity universe
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