Path of Exile 2

Embarking on your first adventure in Path of Exile 2 can feel overwhelming. From its complex mechanics to the vast world of Wraeclast, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos. This guide is designed specifically for newcomers, helping you handle the challenges, understand the essentials, and set off on the right path.
To help you get through the early acts more easily, we have put together six essential tips to guide you through the early stages of the game.

1. Identify Items to Increase Their Value
When you pick up unidentified items, their stats and modifiers are hidden. You’ll need a Scroll of Wisdom to identify them, revealing their true power. However, identifying items has another perk; it increases their vendor value.
In Act 1, you meet an NPC called The Hooded One, who can identify your inventory for free. Before selling your loot, have him reveal everything to maximize your gold gains. It’s quick, efficient, and saves valuable scrolls.

2. Make Gold Early by Selling Items
Inventory space in Path of Exile 2 is limited, and you’ll find yourself constantly managing what to keep and what to sell. While it might be tempting to ignore common loot, selling items early on is essential for stockpiling gold. Gold is critical for respecs, buying upgrades, or gambling for better gear.
To speed up the process:

• Open a vendor screen.
• Use CTRL + Left Click to instantly sell items without dragging them.

3. Try Gambling for Better Gear
Feeling underpowered? Gold doesn’t just sit there for respecs; it’s also your gateway to better equipment. Early in the game, NPCs like Finn (Act 1) offer a gambling system where you spend gold for a chance to win rare gear.
While it’s a gamble, the rewards are often worth the risk. Rare weapons and armor can significantly boost your stats, especially since orbs and other crafting items are less common in the early game.

4. Utilize the Minimap Overlay to Avoid Getting Lost
Each area in Path of Exile 2 is procedurally generated, meaning the layout changes every time you enter. While bosses, paths, and key landmarks remain consistent, the overall map will always look different. This randomness can make exploration tricky, but the minimap overlay is your best friend.
Press Tab to activate it, and you’ll get a semi-transparent map to guide you. This helps ensure you methodically explore every corner without running in circles or revisiting areas unnecessarily. It’s a small but crucial trick to save time and progress efficiently.

5. Upgrade Your Flasks Regularly
Life and mana flasks are crucial to your survival, but they are not all created equal. As you progress, you will find upgraded flasks with improved healing or mana restoration. Always replace outdated flasks as soon as you find a better option.
Remember: swapping flasks empties their charges, but you can refill them instantly at the well in town. Better flasks can often be the difference between survival and death in tricky encounters.
 

Use Your Upgrade Materials Early

In PoE 2 you’ll acquire various crafting and upgrade materials such as uncut skill gems and PoE Orbs like Orb of Augmentation, Artificer’s orbs, Chaos Orb, Divine Orb, Exalted Orb, and more. While hoarding them might seem wise, it’s sometimes better to use these resources early and often.
Upgrading gear, adding rune sockets, or improving item quality will make a noticeable difference in your power level. Experimenting with these mechanics early also helps you understand their value and prepares you for the late game.

Path of Exile 2 can be an intimidating game for newcomers, but it’s also immensely rewarding once you get the hang of it. By following these tips, you’ll find yourself progressing smoothly through the early acts.

Wraeclast may be a dark and unforgiving place, but with the right preparation, you’ll carve your path to power and glory. Good luck, Exile!