This article provides a beginner's guide to understanding the map system in Path of Exile 2, a crucial aspect of the game's endgame.
Unlocking Maps
Access to maps is unlocked by completing the main campaign (Acts 1-3) and then replaying the same Acts on Cruel difficulty. After completing Act 3 in Cruel mode, players will gain access to the endgame content, including maps.
Waystones and the Map Device
Waystones are key items required to activate Maps
Acquiring Waystones: Players receive their first Waystone upon entering the endgame. Subsequent Waystones can be found as drops within Maps while playing on Cruel difficulty.
The Map Device: Located in the player's hideout, this device is used to activate maps using Waystones.
Activating a map: To activate a map, place a Waystone in the Map Device and select the Traverse option. This will open a portal to the selected map.
Navigating the Atlas (Map System)
The Atlas is the interface players use to navigate and select maps
Randomised Map Layouts: Each player's atlas will have a unique layout of maps, even different from the party members' atlas.
Map connections and progression: Maps are connected by paths. Players progress by clearing maps and unlocking adjacent connected maps.
Hideout access within maps: Players can find their Hideout within the Atlas, allowing quick access to their personal space for storage, trading and other activities.
Travel between Maps: Players can travel between connected Maps by selecting a destination Map on the Atlas and using a Waystone in the Map Device.
Key Mechanics and Considerations
Portal System: Upon entering a map, players are given six portals. These portals can be used to return to the player's hideout or town.
Waystone consumption on death: Unlike previous iterations, dying within a map will consume the Waystone used to activate it. A new Waystone is required to re-enter the same map.
Portal Usage: Portals serve two main purposes
Returning to a town/hideout to sell items or perform other tasks.
Re-entering a map after a disconnection (one portal is consumed upon re-entry).
Map Modifiers: Maps can have modifiers that change the gameplay by increasing difficulty or affecting rewards. These modifiers are indicated by icons on the atlas.
Atlas Skill Tree
The Atlas Skill Tree is a passive skill system designed specifically for maps and endgame content
Earning Atlas Skill Points: Players earn Atlas Skill Points by completing certain Map objectives, such as completing a certain number of Maps within a Tier.
Main Atlas Tree: This central tree provides general bonuses to the map gameplay.
Endgame mechanic trees: Separate branches within the Atlas Skill Tree focus on specific endgame mechanics and provide specific bonuses for those activities. Points for these branches are earned by engaging with the corresponding mechanics within maps.
Basic Map Progression
Players typically start by completing maps within the lowest level. As they progress and complete objectives, they unlock higher level maps and earn Atlas Skill Points to further enhance their map experience.
This guide provides a basic understanding of the Map System in Path of Exile 2. Mastering this system is crucial to engaging with the game's endgame content and maximising your character's progression.
Buy PoE2 Currency
PoE2 Boosting