Headhunts are new seasonal content introduced in Diablo 4 Season 7. These specialized Helltide-like zones task players with hunting powerful, Witchcraft-infused enemies across Sanctuary. Each Headhunt zone provides special challenges, as well as valuable rewards tied to the Witchcraft powers.
For more details on Witchcraft, check out our Witchcraft Guide.
Headhunt Zones
Headhunts function like Helltides, covering specific areas on the map where you can complete unique Whisper Bounties and other activities. Multiple Headhunt zones can appear across Sanctuary at the same time, but their locations will rotate periodically.
In these zones, your main targets are to hunt for Headless Husks and Fugitive Heads. Track them down and complete every Whisper available in the zone for more rewards!
A big improvement is the addition of Ravens within Headhunt zones. These allow you to turn in Grim Favors without traveling back to the Tree of Whispers. This keeps you in the action longer, eliminating the need for constant back-and-forth teleporting.
You can also find the Raven directly indicated on your map.
Headrotten Enemies
One of the main bounties in Headhunt zones requires you to hunt Headrotten enemies, which can be found scattered throughout the Headhunt areas. Defeating them rewards you with Restless Rot, a seasonal currency that can be used to purchase and upgrade Witchcraft Powers.
You may also find Headrotten inside Rootholds. Rootholds are mini-dungeons that can be accessed using Whisper Wood Sigils, which you can find in Whisper caches or Silent Chests. These mini-dungeons offer bonus challenges and rewards, making them a great way to farm for more Headrotten and loot.
Headrotten enemies are tougher than regular monsters, and sometimes you will encounter rare boss variants like the Headless Husk or Fugitive Head. These variants are more rewarding!
Exposed Roots and Uprooted Cocoons
After completing a Headhunt Whisper, you can look for Exposed Roots or Uprooted Cocoons. These special interactive roots and cocoons have a chance to spawn the boss variants of the Headrotten, like the Headless Husk or Fugitive Head. It is best to click on all roots and cocoons you come across to increase your chances of encountering one of the two bosses!
The Uprooted Cocoon is even visible on the map when it has spawned. Head to that spot to fight the boss and claim the reward! The Fugitive Head is particularly valuable because it drops the Stolen Fugitive Head, which is required to craft Occult Gems.
Headless Husk and Fugitive Head
Defeat one of the bosses, and you can take the Fugitive Head to Gelena, who is located near the Tree of Whispers. Gelena will exchange the head for a powerful Occult Gem.
To increase your chances of encountering a Fugitive Head, you can do the following:
- Increase your Torment Tier: Higher Torment Tiers increase the likelihood of encountering these powerful bosses.
- Use a Draught of Whispers: This elixir boosts your chances of encountering Headrotten boss variants during Headhunts.
Occult Gems
Occult Gems are a new type of gem that you can craft by turning in Fugitive Heads at the Tree of Whispers. These gems function like regular gems, but they are slotted into jewelry gem slots rather than regular gem slots.
Occult Gems come with a bonus of 160 Armor and 8% All Resistance, allowing you to use them next to your standard gems (such as Skulls or Diamond gems) without having to choose between them.
To craft Occult Gems, you will need the following materials:
- Fugitive Heads
- Restless Rot
- Gem Fragments
- Gem Dust if higher-tier Occult Gem
Occult Gems offer various affixes that can improve your Witchcraft powers, add Witchcraft powers to your skills, and may even grant you the ability to cheat death.
Find all the Occult Gems in our dedicated guide below.
Occult Gems Guide