Path of Exile 2: How to Sustain Waystones While Mapping

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 hampers progression. Fortunately, several strategies can significantly improve your Waystone acquisition.

Prioritize Boss Maps

The most effective method is to utilize your highest-tier Waystones on Atlas Boss map nodes. Bosses have a considerably higher Waystone drop rate. If short on high-tier maps, use lower-tier maps to reach Boss nodes, reserving your higher-tier Waystones for the boss encounter. 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: strategic spending yields greater returns (provided you survive). This creates a positive feedback loop, but only if you consistently invest. Here's a currency allocation guideline:

• 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: Utilize all available upgrades (Regal Orb, Exalted Orb, Vaal Orb, Delirium Instills).

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

Utilize Atlas Skill Tree Nodes

Smart Atlas skill tree allocation is crucial. Prioritize these nodes 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 typically accessible after completing Tier 4 maps. Respeccing is worthwhile; gold is readily available, Waystones are not.

Optimize Your Build Before Tier 5+ Maps

A common reason for Waystone shortages is an incomplete endgame build, leading to frequent deaths. Consult a build guide and respec if necessary. Increased drop rates are useless if you constantly die. Endgame mapping demands a build different from what worked in the campaign.

Leverage Precursor Tablets

Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, adding various modifiers. Many players overlook the stacking potential of nearby towers, creating maps with combined effects from multiple tablets. Use these, even on T5+ maps, rather than hoarding them.

Supplement with Trade Site Purchases

Despite careful planning, occasional shortages are inevitable. Don't hesitate to use the trade site to replenish your supply. Waystones generally cost around 1 Exalted Orb, with lower-tier ones often cheaper. Bulk purchases are best facilitated through the in-game trade channel (/trade 1).