The Architect Hunter

APEX Combat Manual // Target: Remnant Architect // Threat Level: High

The "Remnant Architect" is the apex predator of Mass Effect: Andromeda. These massive, three-legged constructs are not part of the main story path.

They are hidden challenges - superbosses that require specific triggers to unlock.

Defeating all four Architects is not just a badge of honor. It is a tactical necessity.

Each victory boosts planet viability instantly and grants you an Architect Remnant Core, a crafting material required for the galaxy's best gear.

⚠️ Tactical Advisory

Do not engage an Architect on foot.

Use the Nomad for cover, but do not rely on its cannon (it does negligible damage).

Bring a Soldier profile with Turbocharge and an Assault Rifle (like the Valkyrie or Revenant) for maximum DPS during the vulnerability windows.

Phase 1: Combat Protocol

Every Architect fight follows the same three-stage rhythm. Memorize this loop or die.

Stage 1: The Legs (Conduit Vulnerability)

The Architect is invulnerable. You must shoot the glowing "Conduits" on its three legs. Focus fire on one leg at a time. Once a leg takes enough damage, the Architect will stun.

Stage 2: The Head (The Damage Phase)

Once stunned, the head casing opens, revealing the core. Unleash everything. Use Cobras RPGs, Turbocharge, and Incendiary Ammo. You have about 15 seconds before it recovers.

Stage 3: The Mouth (The Instant Kill)

When the head closes, it will summon Remnant bots (Assemblers/Observers) and occasionally fire a massive energy beam from its mouth. Dodge sideways. This beam hits through cover and can one-shot you on Hardcore/Insanity.

Target 1: Eos (The First Encounter)

Unlock Trigger: You must establish the outpost (Prodromos) and complete the quest "Making an Impression" (given by the seismic surveyors).

Location: Near the black site, west of the outpost.
Difficulty: Moderate. The terrain is flat, offering little cover, but you can drive the Nomad in circles around it.

Target 2: Voeld (The Ice Giant)

Unlock Trigger: You must establish the outpost and complete "Missing Science Crew."

Location: Deep in the Remnant derelict site (far east of the map).
Difficulty: High. The extreme cold (Hazard Level 2) will drain your life support systems during the fight. You must run between heat lamps while dodging the Architect's laser.

Target 3: Kadara (The Sulfur Pits)

Unlock Trigger: Establish the outpost (requires siding with Sloane or Reyes) and complete "Old Skinner."

Location: In the sulfur springs area.
Difficulty: Very High. The terrain is uneven, and the acid pools will damage you if you step in them. The Architect likes to teleport to high ground, forcing you to chase it.

Target 4: Elaaden (The Dune Stalker)

Unlock Trigger: Establish the outpost (give the Drive Core to the Krogan) and complete "Architect on Elaaden."

Location: Near the labyrinth ruins.
Difficulty: Moderate. The heat is an issue, but there are plenty of pillars for cover.

The Loot: Remnant Cores

When an Architect falls, you must run up to its head and "Interface" to finalize the kill. This gives you:

+20% Planet Viability: A massive boost.
Architect Remnant Core: Used to craft the Heleus Defender Armor (Tier V-X) and high-level Fusion Mods.
The "Architect" Trophy/Achievement.