Ancient darkspawn

The Ancient darkspawn is exactly that, an ancient hurlock alpha darkspawn encountered only in the Dead Trenches. It has donned incredibly durable armor and has hit points rivaling the equivalent level of a drake.

Involvement[]

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins.

If the quest An Admirable Topsider is active while exploring the Dead Trenches, the Warden and their companions can encounter the darkspawn lurking alone, near the lair of the Genlock forge master. After a long and grueling confrontation, the Warden's party manages to slay the ancient being and can loot the Topsider's Blade from its corpse.

Quests[]

An Admirable Topsider

Locations[]

Dead Trenches

Abilities & Skills[]

Two-Handed Sweep

Notable loot[]

Grey Warden Helmet

Topsider's Blade

Variations[]

Hurlock battle mage

Notes[]

You can find the hilt and pommel before the quest is fully active. However, the Ancient darkspawn will not appear until you have both other pieces and visited the Warrior's Grave in the Ortan Thaig.
The spell combination Storm of the Century is very effective at reducing the health of the Ancient darkspawn, especially if another spell can ensure it remains within the area of effect (e.g. earthquake).
The player can lead this darkspawn to the Legion of the Dead company and they will aid in killing the creature. To avoid complications from other darkspawn that may hinder efforts to lead the creature to them, clear the Dead Trenches out first, then trigger the quest.