New Ways to Enhance PoE 2: Guide to Waystone Maintenance

Sustaining Waystones in Path of Exile 2 Endgame Mapping

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, is incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, several strategies can significantly improve your Waystone acquisition.

Prioritize Boss Maps

The most effective method for acquiring Waystones is to focus on Boss map nodes. Bosses have a high Waystone drop rate. If short on high-tier maps, 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; spending currency to enhance them yields greater returns (provided you survive). This creates a positive feedback loop, but it requires consistent investment. 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: Maximize upgrades (Regal Orb, Exalted Orb, Vaal Orb, Delirium Instills).

Prioritize "Increased Waystone Drop Chance" (aim for above 200%) and "Increased Rarity of Items found in this area." Also, seek modifiers that increase monster quantity, particularly rare monsters. List items for Regal Orbs instead of Exalted Orbs if they aren't selling; they sell much faster.

Utilize Atlas Skill Tree Nodes

Strategic Atlas skill tree allocation is crucial. Prioritize these nodes early:

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

These nodes are usually accessible by completing Tier 4 maps. Respeccing is worthwhile if necessary; Waystones are far more valuable than the cost of respeccing.

Optimize Your Build

Insufficient build optimization is a major reason for Waystone shortages. Dying frequently negates any gains from increased drop rates. Consult a build guide and respec if needed. Endgame mapping demands a different build than the campaign.

Leverage Precursor Tablets

Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, stacking when used on nearby towers. Utilize them liberally, even on T5+ maps; they're not for hoarding.

Buy Waystones (If Necessary)

Despite these strategies, occasional shortages may occur. Don't hesitate to buy Waystones on the trade site (around 1 Exalted Orb each). Lower-tier Waystones might be cheaper, but many sellers bundle them at the 1 Exalted Orb price point. Use the /trade 1 channel for bulk purchases.