In Borderlands 4 you’ll face Idolator Sol as another major boss during the main story. Here’s how to take him down and what to watch out for in each phase of the fight.
In Borderlands 4, it doesn’t take long before you’re thrown against a real heavy-hitter. One of the first truly tough battles awaits you in the main quest “Rush the Gate,” where Idolator Sol, a commander of the Timekeeper, blocks your path. If you’re not prepared, Sol can crush you fast: his bio-armor makes him nearly invincible, he heals by draining his minions, and the arena itself becomes deadlier as the fight progresses. Here’s what to expect and how to beat him.
Where to find Idolator Sol
You’ll encounter Idolator Sol at the end of the main quest “Rush the Gate.” This mission takes place inside Indomita Fortress in the Kairos zone. After fighting your way through the fortress, you’ll find two vending machines near the boss chamber. Stock up on ammo, health, and grenades, then drop through the hatch at the northern end to enter the arena and face Sol head-on.
Fight structure
Idolator Sol isn’t just another boss – he’s the first major Timekeeper commander you’ll be up against. The fight plays out in multiple phases, each introducing new dangers. The key obstacle: his bio-armor, which makes him fully immune to damage until you break it.
The only way to shatter this armor is by using green Locust Cans that get hurled into the arena during his attacks. Quick guide:
- He fires a row of red staffs into the ground, always accompanied by exactly one green staff.
- Use your Grapple Hook to grab the green Locust Can and throw it back at Sol.
- If it connects, the armor breaks at that spot, leaving him vulnerable for a short time.
His critical weak spot is his head – once you break the plating there, focus your fire for maximum crit damage.
Behavior and attacks
Sol forces you to stay on the move. As the fight progresses, his attack patterns change:
Phase 1
- Sword swings in melee range – dodge or jump to avoid them.
- A ground punch that summons spikes from below, dealing heavy damage and knocking you back.
- Summoning staff barrages (essential for triggering vulnerability phases).
During this phase he also summons smaller enemies. They’re weak but dangerous because Sol can absorb them to restore his armor or health. Take them out quickly before he gets to them.
Phase 2
Once Sol loses two health bars, the fight escalates:
- His attacks gain area effects, with many strikes summoning sharp pillars from the ground.
- Sections of the arena fill with poisonous mist. Stay in safe zones. When the floor cracks, keep your distance.
- He chains old and new moves, like a sword spin followed by a powerful ground slam.
Key tip: Stay at mid-range. This helps you avoid melee swipes and poison zones, while keeping you close enough to grab Locust Cans when they appear.
Tips for victory
- Damage types: Sol is especially weak against Fire/Incendiary damage. Bring weapons or skills that reliably deal burn damage.
- Use Action Skills: Time your action skill for his vulnerability windows. Landing a big hit right after his armor drops makes the fight much easier.
- Movement: Take full advantage of Borderlands 4’s new movement. Double jumps, slides, dashes, and hovering let you dodge nearly everything.
- Control adds: Don’t ignore the summoned soldiers. They’re weak, but if Sol absorbs them he’ll regain armor and health.
Rewards and drops
Idolator Sol has a chance to drop Legendary gear, including weapons and equipment themed around his bio-technology. After victory, you’ll also receive a key quest item, Sol’s Bolt, which you need to pick up. Just beyond the arena you’ll also find a red chest with extra loot. Among his drops are several fire-based weapons with unique effects that will prove valuable in later missions.
