Fortnite’s Fortnitemares event always has something creepy come to the island — and this year, Chapter 6 Season 4 brings one of the biggest surprise visitors yet: Doja Cat, in-game as the Mother of Thorns.
This haunting mini-boss is not for display purposes only. Defeating her will reward you with unique quest rewards and the Thorn Ripper, a strong new Mythic weapon. The issue, however, is not the battle itself — it’s discovering her location in the first place. Here’s how to find and defeat the Mother of Thorns in Fortnite.
Where to Find the Mother of Thorns
The Mother of Thorns will have one of three potential spawn points in each game. There will only be a single spawn point that is active, and it will randomize each game.
These are her potential locations:
- West of Supernova Academy, close to the Halloween section
- In the centre of Gourdy Gate
- Close to the red barn on the south border of Freaky Fields
When you’re within one of these areas, pay attention to your map — there will be a skull icon when she spawns. This is her indication of active location within the match.
Upon landing, search for red, glowing vines writhing out of the earth. The Mother of Thorns will be in the middle, encased in an eerie red glow — it’s not easy to miss when you get closer.
How to Beat the Mother of Thorns
The best part? She’s not as bad as she appears.
Prior to fighting, ensure you loot surrounding chests and equip yourself adequately. Other players are hunting her as well, so you may find yourself with both the boss and enemy teams simultaneously.
Tips in Combat
- Aim for the head: Her vulnerable area is her head — constant headshots will burn through her shield and health bars in no time.
- Keep your distance: She’ll do heavy damage at close range with melee attacks. Remain mobile and fire from a medium or long distance.
- Keep an eye out for third parties: The Mother of Thorns’ spawn points are high-traffic drop zones, so players may drop by the fight in progress. Defeat competitors early if you get the chance.
She only has two bars — a shield and a health bar — but doesn’t have any flashy moves or quick phase shifts. With good gear and shots, you can quickly take her down.
Rewards for Defeating the Mother of Thorns
After being defeated, the Mother of Thorns will respawn as an NPC that can be recruited into your party, and she’ll drop the Thorn Ripper, a Mythic event-unique weapon.
The Thorn Ripper is all about using quick melee attacks in combination with a special life-steal ability, which plays just into her thorny theme — and it’s easily one of the most enjoyable weapons to test out during Fortnitemares.
