Path of Exile 2: Unveiling the Secrets of Citadels and Mastering Endgame
After conquering the main campaign and Acts 1-3 on Cruel difficulty, players unlock the Endgame and the Atlas of Worlds. Navigating this expansive map presents various challenges, including Citadels – elusive endgame objectives. Unlike readily visible structures like Lost Towers, Realmgates, and Burning Monoliths, Citadels require a bit more searching. The 0.1.1 update improves Citadel visibility, but if you're still struggling to locate them, these tips will help.
The Significance of Citadels in PoE 2
Citadels are unique map nodes, appearing as Iron, Copper, or Stone variations. Each houses a powerful campaign boss (significantly enhanced for the endgame) and rewards players with a Crisis Fragment upon defeat. These fragments are crucial for accessing the Burning Monolith and its pinnacle boss, the Arbiter of Ash, completing the "Pinnacle of Flame" quest.
- Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Appears as a large city with black walls.
- Copper Citadel: Jamanra, The Abomination (Act 2 boss). Resembles a large encampment.
- Stone Citadel: Doryani (Act 3 boss). Looks like a stone pyramid.
Accessing a Citadel requires a Tier 15 or higher Waystone. Remember, each Citadel is a one-time challenge; defeat the boss, claim your rewards (including potentially amazing loot), and then search for more.
Strategies for Locating Citadels
The 0.1.1 update significantly enhances Citadel visibility with prominent beacons visible even through the Fog of War.
If Citadels remain elusive, try these strategies:
- Strategic Pathing: Travel in a straight line across the Atlas map to maximize Fog of War clearing. This reveals the largest area possible.
- Lost Tower Exploration: Lost Towers reveal significant portions of the surrounding area, potentially uncovering nearby Citadels.
- Biome Targeting: Different Citadel types favor specific biomes:
- Iron Citadels: Grass or Forest
- Copper Citadels: Desert
- Stone Citadels: Coastal areas
- Spatial Awareness: Once you find a Citadel, it's unlikely more will be nearby. Explore in a completely different direction to increase your chances of finding another.
With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, Citadels should be easier to spot within a few screens of your explored areas. If not, revert to the straight-line pathing strategy – the beacon will guide you.