Path of Exile 2 Endgame Mapping: A Waystone Sustainability Guide
One of the biggest hurdles in transitioning from Path of Exile 2's campaign to its endgame is maintaining a steady supply of Waystones. Running dry, especially at higher tiers, is frustrating. Fortunately, several strategies can help you sustain your mapping progress.
Prioritize Boss Maps
The most effective method for acquiring Waystones is focusing on Boss map nodes. Bosses have a significantly higher Waystone drop rate. If you're low on high-tier maps, use lower-tier maps to reach Boss nodes and then utilize your higher-tier maps for the boss fight. You'll likely gain an equivalent or higher-tier Waystone, sometimes even multiple.
Invest Currency Wisely
Resist the urge to hoard Regal and Exalted Orbs. Consider Waystones an investment; increased spending yields greater returns (provided you survive). 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 density, particularly rare monsters. List items for Regal Orbs instead of Exalted Orbs if they aren't selling quickly – they'll move faster.
Optimize Atlas Skill Tree
Strategic Atlas skill tree allocation is vital. These three nodes should be prioritized early:
- Constant Crossroads: 20% increased Waystone quantity.
- Fortunate Path: 100% increased Waystone rarity.
- The High Road: 20% chance for Waystones to be a tier higher.
These are accessible by completing Tier 4 maps. Respeccing is worthwhile if needed; Waystones are more valuable than the cost of respeccing.
Refine Your Build Before Tier 5+ Maps
Insufficient build optimization leads to frequent deaths, hindering Waystone acquisition. Consult a build guide and respec if necessary. Campaign leveling builds often underperform in endgame mapping.
Utilize Precursor Tablets
Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, and their effects stack when used on nearby towers. Don't hoard them; use them even on T5+ maps.
Supplement with Trade Site Purchases
Even with optimal strategies, bad luck can occur. Don't hesitate to buy Waystones on the trade site (around 1 Exalted Orb each). Lower-tier Waystones are often cheaper, but many sellers bundle them at 1 Exalted Orb. Use the in-game trade channel (/trade 1) for bulk purchases.
