Guide: Sustaining Waystones in PoE 2 Maps

Sustaining Waystones in Path of Exile 2 Endgame: A Comprehensive Guide

One of the biggest hurdles in transitioning from Path of Exile 2's campaign to the endgame is maintaining a steady supply of Waystones. Running dry, especially at higher tiers, severely impacts progression. Fortunately, strategic planning can significantly improve Waystone acquisition. This guide outlines crucial steps for consistent Waystone generation.

Prioritize Boss Maps

The most effective method for acquiring Waystones is focusing on Boss map nodes. Bosses have a considerably higher Waystone drop rate. If high-tier maps are scarce, use lower-tier maps to reach Boss nodes, reserving your higher-tier maps for the Boss encounter itself. Defeating a Boss often yields a Waystone of equal or higher tier, sometimes even multiple.

Invest Currency Wisely

Resist the urge to hoard Regal and Exalted Orbs. Consider Waystones an investment: expenditure yields returns (provided you survive). This creates a positive feedback loop, but only if you consistently invest. Here's a currency allocation strategy:

• Tier 1-5 Waystones: Upgrade to Magic items (Orb of Augmentation, Orb of Transmutation).
• Tier 6-10 Waystones: Upgrade to Rare items (Regal Orb).
• Tier 11-16 Waystones: Maximize upgrades (Regal Orb, Exalted Orb, Vaal Orb, Delirium Instills).

Prioritize increasing Waystone drop chance (aim for over 200%) and item rarity. Also, focus on increasing monster quantity, especially rare monsters. List items for Regal Orbs instead of Exalted Orbs if they aren't selling quickly; they'll sell faster, providing usable currency.

Utilize Atlas Skill Tree Nodes

Strategic Atlas skill tree allocation is vital. These three nodes should be prioritized if Waystones are scarce:

• Constant Crossroads: 20% increased Waystone quantity.
• Fortunate Path: 100% increased Waystone rarity.
• The High Road: 20% chance for Waystones to be a higher tier.

These nodes are accessible by completing Tier 4 maps. Respeccing is worthwhile; gold is readily available, Waystones are not.

Optimize Your Build Before Tier 5+ Maps

Insufficient build optimization leads to frequent deaths, hindering Waystone sustainability. Consult build guides and respec if necessary. High Waystone drop rates are useless if you continually die. Endgame mapping requires a different build strategy than the campaign.

Leverage Precursor Tablets

Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, adding various map modifiers. Stack their effects by using them on nearby towers. Don't hoard them; utilize them even in T5+ maps.

Buy Waystones (When Necessary)

Despite optimal strategies, occasional Waystone shortages may occur. The trade site offers a temporary solution. Waystones typically cost around 1 Exalted Orb, with lower-tier ones often cheaper. Utilize the in-game trade channel (/trade 1) for bulk purchases.