The Guardian

The Guardian is one of three Act 1 boss enemies with 240/250 HP. It has two modes: Offensive Mode (uses Fierce Bash for 32-36 damage, Twin Slam for heavy hits) and Defensive Mode (uses Sharp Hide which deals 3 damage back per Attack hit, and Whirlwind to end the mode). When the Guardian takes enough unblocked damage in Defensive Mode, it enters Mode Shift and returns to Offensive Mode at reduced attack power.

The Guardian's Sharp Hide in Defensive Mode is its most punishing ability for multi-hit decks. Playing many small Attacks while it has Sharp Hide can result in massive self-damage. Optimal strategy involves dealing large burst damage in Offensive Mode and minimizing Attacks (or only using single-hit large Attacks) in Defensive Mode. The Guardian rewards planning around mode transitions and is one of the more mechanically engaging boss fights in Act 1.