Sustaining Waystones in Path of Exile 2 Endgame Mapping: 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. This guide outlines key strategies to ensure a consistent flow of Waystones.

Prioritize Boss Maps

The most effective method is focusing your highest-tier Waystones on Atlas Boss map nodes. Bosses have a significantly 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 encounters. Defeating a boss often yields an equivalent or higher-tier Waystone, sometimes even multiple.

Invest Currency Wisely

Resist hoarding Regal and Exalted Orbs. Consider Waystones an investment: increased investment yields greater returns (provided you survive). This creates a positive feedback loop, but it requires consistent investment. 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 "Increased Waystone Drop Chance" (above 200% ideally) and "Increased Rarity of Items found in this area." Also, seek modifiers 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, generating 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 quantity of Waystones.
• Fortunate Path: 100% increased rarity of Waystones.
• The High Road: 20% chance for Waystones to be a tier higher.

These are usually accessible after completing Tier 4 maps. Don't hesitate to respec if necessary; gold is readily obtainable, Waystones are not.

Optimize Your Build Before Tier 5+ Maps

Insufficient build optimization is a major cause of Waystone depletion. Dying frequently negates any gains from increased drop rates. Consult build guides and respec if needed. Endgame mapping demands different strategies than the campaign.

Leverage Precursor Tablets

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

Supplement with Trade Site Purchases

Despite employing these strategies, occasional shortages might occur. Don't hesitate to use the trade site to replenish your supply. Waystones generally cost around 1 Exalted Orb, with lower-tier ones sometimes cheaper. Utilize the in-game trade channel (/trade 1) for bulk purchases.