Overview
The Steel Mountains Ruins is an Ancient Ruins puzzle where players must strike eight bells in the correct sequence to unlock an Abyss Cresset. The puzzle is based on matching symbols posted on a nearby board to the corresponding bell markers. Getting the sequence right on the first attempt can be tricky because accidentally bumping a bell counts as a strike and forces a full reset.
Location
The ruins are found at the Mysterious Energy marker between the Steel Mountains and Deepwoods, at the northern foot of a small mountain in that area. The closest landmark is the Spire of Insight to the south. From the nearest fast travel point, head south through the mountain pass until you spot the clearing with the bell structure.
How the Puzzle Works
On the left side of the clearing, you will see pieces of paper stuck to a board, each marked with a symbol. These symbols indicate the order in which the bells must be struck. To the right, there are eight bells arranged in a row, each marked with its own unique symbol. A mallet rests near the bells for you to pick up.
To solve the puzzle, match the symbols on the posted papers to their corresponding bell symbols and strike them in the correct order. The sequence forms a pattern that goes up from bell 1 to bell 6, then reverses back down to bell 1.
Solution
Pick up the mallet and hit the bells in this exact order (numbered 1 through 6, left to right): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 4, 3, 2, 1.
Although there are eight physical bells, only bells 1 through 6 are used in the solution. The sequence ascends from bell 1 to bell 6, then descends back to bell 1.
Reset Mechanics
If you hit the wrong bell or accidentally walk into one (which counts as a strike), the entire sequence resets. Unlike most puzzles in the game, you cannot simply retry in place. You must leave the area entirely and return. Many players have reported needing to travel over 200 meters to a nearby fast travel point before the puzzle resets properly. Save your game before attempting the puzzle so you can reload if something goes wrong.
Alternative Method: Using a Bow
Many players have found it easier to solve this puzzle using a bow rather than the provided mallet. Shooting the bells from a distance avoids the risk of accidentally bumping into the wrong bell while walking between them. Equip your bow, stand at a safe distance, and fire arrows at each bell in the correct sequence.
Tips
Study the symbols on the papers carefully before hitting any bells. Each paper corresponds to one note in the sequence.
Stand back from the bells while planning your approach. Walking too close can trigger an accidental strike.
If you have a bow, consider using it instead of the mallet for a safer, more controlled approach.
Save before attempting the puzzle. A misfire means leaving the area entirely to reset.
Rewards
1 Abyss Artifact from the Abyss Cresset.
A rocky wall opens to reveal the Abyss Cresset chamber.
A new fast travel point is unlocked at this location.