Welcome, Exiles, to a guide that will help you navigate the complex world of mapping in Path of Exile 2 with a focus on maximizing your loot and ensuring you can sustain your map progression. Whether you're an experienced player or just beginning your journey in Wraeclast, these tips are designed to enhance your gameplay experience.
Starting your mapping adventure
When you first start mapping, one of the first steps is to find a hideout. These are usually located near your starting point and are compact areas with minimal monster presence, making them ideal for beginners or those playing in Hardcore mode due to the reduced risk. Remember, hideouts aren't just for aesthetics; they're strategic map management points.
Understanding the Atlas and Biomes
The atlas in PoE2 is your endgame playground, where understanding the biomes can make or break your loot. Nodes such as Local Knowledge can influence which biomes you encounter, and while they may seem small, they play a crucial role in your mapping strategy. For example, focusing on certain biomes can lead to more efficient farming sessions, especially if you're aiming for certain league mechanics.
Leveraging Precursor Tablets
Precursor tablets are your ticket to juicing up your maps. These items, which you'll find through various league mechanics such as Breach, can radiate your maps, effectively increasing their loot level without affecting map completion. Here's a pro tip: the positive modifiers from these tablets stack, so you can see boosts such as increased magical monsters, rare monster modifiers and the amount of items dropped. Remember, while the challenge level doesn't stack, the loot benefits do, making your maps more rewarding.
Managing Maps and Waystones
Map management is key, especially if you're concerned about sustainability. The reforging bench, unlocked in the third act, allows you to combine three maps into one of a higher level, which is particularly useful if you've got maps with less desirable mods. On hardcore, it's wise to start with safer options such as blue waystones to avoid one-shot attacks, especially from chaos damage.
When it comes to waystones, prioritise using them on boss maps for better drop rates. This strategy not only helps with map persistence, but also increases your chances of finding valuable loot. Remember, waystones are like the maps in PoE2, so using them wisely can have a significant impact on your gameplay.
Atlas Skill Tree Progression
Your journey through the Atlas will involve progressing through its skill tree. Early on, you'll need to complete a certain number of Tier 1 maps to unlock points. A good initial path includes nodes such as Constant Crossroads for more maps, Lucky Pillage for more quantity, and Fortunate Path if you're looking to run modified maps occasionally. As you progress, consider nodes that enhance biome effects or increase the influence of league mechanics, such as Expedition, which can help craft items through its unique system.
Practical Mapping Tips
Tactical Rushing: When mapping, look for clusters of Towers. Running lower level maps through them can be efficient due to their consistent layouts.
Looting strategy: After killing rare monsters, wait a moment before looting to avoid on-death effects, especially in hardcore.
Completion vs. Full Clear: For map completion, focus on killing rares and uniques, but if you're struggling with sustain, consider clearing the entire map for additional drops.
Precursor Tablets: Don't hesitate to use these; they drop frequently and can significantly increase your loot when used strategically.
Thanks For Reading!
Mapping in Path of Exile 2 is an art form, a blend of strategy, risk management and the thrill of the hunt for better loot. Understanding how to use the precursor tablets, manage your waystones, and navigate the atlas will improve your mapping efficiency. Remember, the key to success is adapting your strategy as you learn more about the game's mechanics and your personal playstyle. Happy mapping, Exiles, and may your drops be plentiful!
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