Path of Exile 2: How to Sustain Waystones While Mapping

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• Prioritize Boss Maps on the Atlas
• Spend Currency On Waystones
• Take Waystone Drop Chance Atlas Skill Tree Nodes
• Finalize Your Build Before Doing Tier 5+ Maps
• Use Precursor Tablets
• Buy Waystones on the Trade Site

Navigating Path of Exile 2's endgame mapping can be challenging, especially the constant struggle to maintain a steady supply of Waystones. Running dry feels incredibly frustrating, particularly at higher tiers. Fortunately, several strategies can significantly improve your Waystone acquisition. Let's explore the key steps to ensure a consistent flow of Waystones.

Prioritize Boss Maps on the Atlas

The most effective method for sustaining Waystones is prioritizing Boss map nodes. Bosses have a remarkably high Waystone drop rate. If you're low on high-tier maps, use lower-tier maps to reach Boss nodes, reserving your higher-tier maps for the boss encounters. Defeating a boss often yields a Waystone of equal or higher tier—sometimes even multiple Waystones!

Spend Currency On Waystones

While hoarding Regal and Exalted Orbs for trading or crafting is tempting, investing them in Waystones is far more beneficial. Consider Waystones an investment: increased spending yields greater returns (provided you survive!). This creates a positive feedback loop, but only if you consistently reinvest. 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).

Focus on two key stats: Increased Waystone Drop Chance (aim for at least 200%) and Increased Rarity of Items found in this area. Anything boosting monster quantity, especially rare monsters, is also valuable. List items for Regal Orbs instead of Exalted Orbs if they aren't selling; they'll sell faster, generating usable currency.

Take Waystone Drop Chance Atlas Skill Tree Nodes

As you progress and complete Doryani's quest, strategically allocate Atlas skill tree points. These three nodes are crucial for Waystone sustainability:

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

These nodes are typically accessible by Tier 4 maps. Don't hesitate to respec if needed; gold is readily available, Waystones are not.

Finalize Your Build Before Doing Tier 5+ Maps

A common reason for Waystone shortages is an incomplete endgame build, leading to frequent deaths. Consult a build guide for your class and respec if necessary. Increased drop chances are useless if you constantly die. Leveling guides are often unsuitable for endgame mapping.

Use Precursor Tablets

Precursor Tablets enhance monster rarity and quantity, adding powerful modifiers to towers. Stack these effects by using Tablets on nearby towers for amplified map benefits. Use them proactively, even on T5+ maps, rather than hoarding.

Buy Waystones on the Trade Site

Despite your best efforts, you might occasionally run low on Waystones. Don't hesitate to purchase them from the trade site to maintain momentum. Waystones typically cost around 1 Exalted Orb, with lower-tier Waystones often cheaper. For bulk purchases, utilize the in-game trade channel (/trade 1).