ESO Blackwood: Rockgrove Trial Explained

Elder Srolls Online players have a new 12-man trial to look forward to with the release of Blackwood, the game's latest expansion chapter.

Trials are 12-person PvE experiences meant to be run by larger groups. They tend to feature several mini-bosses, lengthy walks of trash mobs, and unique gear set pieces all wrapped together with detailed storytelling. Typically, each chapter gets its own trial, giving endgame players a new challenge every year or so.

Rockgrove is Blackwood's endgame feat.

ESO Blackwood: Rockgrove Trial Explained

Rockgrove can be found at the southern tip of Blackwood, in the swampland part of the map closest to Black Marsh. It is named after the titular ancient city it plays out in--currently besieged by a daedric cult worshipping Mehrunes Dagon, Prince of Destruction.

Players join the battle to save a tribe of argonians called the Cul-Uxith from the naga Sul-Xan tribe bent on sacrificing their souls to appease the prince. They get recruited by stone-talker Dust-On-Scales to fight against Flame-Herald Bahsei and the daedric-imbued naga. They'll need to reach the heart of the xanmeer to rescue the argonians and put a stop to the Sul-Xan's plans.

There are three major bosses in this trial: colossal daedra Oaxiltso, Flame-Herald Bahsei , and Xalvakka—a general in Dagon's army.

Oaxiltso is a giant, argonian brute who relies on his fire and poison abilities to bring down players. Occasionally, he'll summon Havocrel Annihilator adds that the group will need to take care of. His most notable attack is Noxious Sludge which affects a few individuals per attack. If afflicted, players should run to the nearest pool to clean themselves off.

Flame-Herald Bahsei is an Argonian Sul-Xan cultist focused on bringing the wrath Dagon down on the Cal-Uxith's heads. He uses an ability called "Death Sickle" which prompts Death Touch, a status that affects more damage with each player it affects. Additionally, he will summon Kiss of Death whirlwind effects that players should avoid.

Xalvakka is a known general of Mehrunes Dagon, himself. She resides in the Deadlands and players will need to traverse into that plane to fight her in her tower. Like any true general, Xalvakka summons waves of adds ranging from easily killed trash to Iron Atronachs and Flame Watchers. At one point, she will split into three visages, forcing the players to find the real Xalvakka.

Players can expect to find pieces of the following sets while adventuring through the trial:

• Bahsei's Mania
• Stone-Talker's Oath
• Sul-Xan's Torment
• Saxhleel Champion

Of these four, Stone-Talker's Oath appears to be the most prominent in the trial.

Rewards for completing this trial include:

• "Sul-Xan Raider" face marking
• "Sul-Xan Raider" body marking
• "Sul-Xan Fleshripper" mount

We recommend picking up the trail quest, "Of Stone and Steam," on the first run through.