Path of Exile 2 is a complex game with a deep and intricate currency system. This guide aims to provide a starting point for brand-new players, offering a practical overview of when and how to use various currency items. While build-specific nuances exist, the general principles outlined here should apply to most character archetypes.
Basic Path of Exile 2 Currency Orbs
Let's start with the foundational currency orbs:
| Orb | Function | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Orb of Transmutation | Upgrades a normal (white) item to a magic (blue) item. | Use on white items that are potential upgrades for your build, particularly those with desirable base stats. For example, as a minion summoner, we prioritize expert-based energy shield gear. |
| Orb of Augmentation | Adds a mod to a magic item. | Use on blue items that have a good prefix or suffix and could benefit from an additional mod. |
| Regal Orb | Upgrades a magic item to a rare (yellow) item. | Use on blue items with promising prefixes and suffixes. For example, a scepter with increased minion damage and minion life would be a good candidate. |
| Chaos Orb | Re-rolls the mods on a rare item. | Use on rare items that are almost good but need one or two different mods. Be aware that chaos orbs can also ruin a good item. |
| Exalted Orb | Adds a mod to a rare item. | Use on rare items that are already usable but could benefit from additional mods. Exalted orbs are valuable, so use them strategically. |
Understanding item level is crucial for efficient crafting. By holding Alt in-game, you can see an item's level. For example, a higher item level scepter has a greater chance of rolling higher-tier minion damage mods. If you want to trade some currencies and items, you can visit PoE 2 Currency Exchange Rates for detailed information and current market values.
Advanced Path of Exile 2 Currency Orbs
Beyond the basic orbs, several other currency items play important roles:
| Orb | Function | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Divine Orb | Re-rolls the numeric values of an item's mods. | Generally, new players should sell Divine Orbs rather than use them. They are most effective on items with specific mods where the numeric values are crucial. |
| Orb of Annulment | Removes a random mod from an item. | Best used in conjunction with "Omen" items that guarantee the removal of a prefix or suffix. |
| Orb of Chance | Attempts to upgrade a normal or magic item to a unique item. | Use on specific base items with desirable unique versions, such as Stellar amulets or Sapphire rings. |
| Vaal Orb | Corrupts an item, adding or changing its mods. | Use on items that are already good but have potential for improvement, or on duplicates of valuable items. Be aware that Vaal orbs can also ruin an item. |
| Orb of Fusing | Re-rolls the number of sockets on an item. | Use it to try and achieve the desired number of sockets for your build. |
| Jeweller's Orb | Re-rolls the number of sockets on an item. | Similar to fusing orbs, but can also be used strategically with Vaal orbs to increase the chances of obtaining more sockets. |
Essences and Other Currency
Essences and other currency items provide additional crafting options:
- Essences: Use on white or blue items to guarantee specific mods.
- Fossils: Combine with resonators to add specific mods to items during crafting.
- Gemcutter's Prism (GCP): Increases the quality of gems, which enhances their effects.
- Blacksmith's Whetstone, Armourer's Scrap, and Glassblower's Bauble: Increase the quality of weapons, armor, and flasks, respectively.
This guide provides a basic understanding of Path of Exile 2's currency system. Experimentation and further research are encouraged as you progress. Don't be afraid to try different crafting methods and learn from your mistakes. The complexity of the currency system is part of what makes Path of Exile 2 so engaging.
