Path of Exile 2: How To Find More Citadels

Path of Exile 2: Mastering the Elusive Citadels

After conquering the main campaign and Acts 1-3 on Cruel difficulty, Path of Exile 2 players unlock the Endgame and the Atlas of Worlds. Navigating this Atlas reveals various structures offering unique challenges, including Realmgates, Lost Towers, Burning Monoliths, and the enigmatic Citadels.

Citadels, unlike readily visible structures, present a unique endgame challenge. While Lost Towers pierce the Fog of War, and Realmgates/Burning Monoliths appear near the Atlas starting point, Citadels require a more strategic approach. The 0.1.1 update enhances Citadel visibility, but if your Atlas remains Citadel-free, use these strategies:

Unlocking the Citadel's Secrets

Citadels are unique map nodes, categorized as Iron, Copper, and Stone, each guarding a differently powered-up campaign boss. Defeating these bosses yields Crisis Fragments, crucial keys to opening the Burning Monolith and facing the Arbiter of Ash, the pinnacle boss. This completes the "Pinnacle of Flame" quest.

• Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Identified by large black-walled city structures.
• Copper Citadel: Jamanra, The Abomination (Act 2 boss). Appears as a large encampment surrounding the map node.
• Stone Citadel: Doryani (Act 3 boss). Resembles a stone pyramid, similar to Act 3 ziggurats.

Accessing a Citadel requires a minimum Tier 15 Waystone. Remember, each Citadel attempt is a single, unforgiving run – defeat the boss or perish. Rewards include valuable loot and Crisis Fragments, but Citadels are one-time encounters.

Strategic Citadel Hunting

The 0.1.1 update significantly improves Citadel visibility. Bright beacons now mark their locations, even through the Fog of War.

If beacons remain elusive, employ these tactics:

1. Linear Exploration: Travel in a straight line across the Atlas, maximizing Fog of War clearing and map visibility.
2. Lost Tower Strategy: Prioritize Lost Towers; their completion reveals substantial areas, potentially uncovering nearby Citadels.
3. Biome Targeting: Citadels favor specific biomes:
   • Iron Citadels: Grass or Forest biomes.
   • Copper Citadels: Desert biomes.
   • Stone Citadels: Coastal areas of any biome.
4. Strategic Spacing: Citadels rarely cluster. After finding one, explore in a completely different direction.

With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, Citadels within a few map screens of revealed areas should be easily spotted. If not, revert to the linear exploration strategy – the beacon will guide your path.