Path of Exile 2 is not only a game of incredible complexity, but it’s also known for its vast endgame content, which rewards players with powerful gear, complex mechanics, and a host of challenging encounters. One of the key components of PoE 2’s endgame system is the Waystone—a new addition to the game that provides players with the ability to enter higher-tier maps and access some of the most intense, rewarding challenges in the game.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Tier 16+ Waystones in Path of Exile 2, including how to obtain them, the mechanics behind their use, and what you can expect from these higher-tier maps. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the most difficult content in the game and reap the incredible rewards that come with it.
What Are Waystones?
Waystones are a new type of item introduced in Poe 2 trade that serve as gateways to higher-level maps and content. While Path of Exile traditionally relied on map drops (obtained through monster kills or specific quests) to unlock endgame content, Waystones have become an integral part of the endgame progression system. These stones are tied to higher-tier maps, especially those of Tier 16 and above, which are considered some of the most difficult and rewarding encounters in the game.
Waystones act as a way for players to access endgame bosses, dungeons, and special map areas, each of which offers unique loot, mechanics, and encounters. The higher the tier of the Waystone, the more difficult the content, but also the better the rewards. Tier 16+ Waystones are considered some of the hardest to obtain and require a significant investment of time, effort, and strategic play.
How to Get Tier 16+ Waystones in PoE 2
Obtaining Tier 16+ Waystones is no small feat. Unlike earlier-tier Waystones, which can be obtained from common sources like map drops or vendor trades, Tier 16+ Waystones require players to engage in specific activities, face tougher bosses, and even navigate complex systems in the game. Below are the main methods to acquire these high-level Waystones.
1. Progressing Through the Endgame Atlas System
One of the most common ways to obtain higher-tier Waystones is by progressing through the Endgame Atlas system in Path of Exile 2. The Atlas is essentially the endgame map progression system where players run through different map tiers, encountering increasingly difficult enemies and bosses.
To obtain Tier 16+ Waystones, you’ll need to have advanced through the Atlas and unlocked high-level maps (typically around Tier 14-15). The process involves completing various map-related tasks and bosses that gradually increase the difficulty, with each completed challenge giving you better rewards, including Waystones.
Here are the main steps to progress through the Atlas to unlock Tier 16+ maps:
Complete Lower-Tier Maps: You’ll start with Tier 1 maps and gradually work your way up to higher-tier maps by completing objectives in each map. Each map tier increases in difficulty, and the bosses you face in these maps become progressively harder.
Complete Map Bosses: Each map has a unique boss at the end of it, which you need to defeat in order to unlock the next set of maps. The first few tiers are fairly easy, but once you reach Tier 10-12 maps, you’ll need to defeat tougher map bosses to unlock Tier 16 content.
Complete Atlas Objectives: In addition to completing map bosses, you will have to fulfill certain Atlas objectives, which might include completing a certain number of maps at each tier, defeating Elder or Shaper bosses, or collecting Atlas Watchstones.
Unlocking Tier 16 Maps: Once you have progressed through Tier 14-15, you’ll unlock Tier 16 maps. From here, you will begin to get access to Tier 16 Waystones that allow you to enter the highest-level maps and engage with the most challenging content in the game.
2. Special Endgame Boss Encounters
Another way to acquire Tier 16+ Waystones is through special endgame boss encounters, many of which are tied to the lore of the game and are found in specific zones or areas. These bosses often drop exclusive items, including high-tier Waystones, which can be used to access top-tier endgame maps.
Some of the key endgame bosses to focus on include:
The Searing Exarch: A powerful entity found deep in the heart of the Atlas. Defeating the Searing Exarch requires completing a series of difficult map encounters and objectives. Upon defeating him, you will have a chance to receive a Tier 16 Waystone as a reward.
The Eater of Worlds: Another challenging endgame boss tied to the Path of Exile 2 narrative, the Eater of Worlds can be found in high-level maps and offers powerful loot as a reward. It’s known for being a source of high-level Waystones and is a significant target for players in search of Tier 16+ Waystones.
Conquerors of the Atlas: After completing the core storyline and Atlas progression, you’ll encounter Conquerors, which are endgame bosses that drop high-tier loot and Waystones. These bosses have multiple phases and require careful preparation to overcome.
3. Farming Specific Map Zones for Waystones
Some areas in Path of Exile 2 have specific farming opportunities that increase the chance of dropping higher-tier Waystones, particularly in zones that are meant to challenge the player and reward them with powerful loot.
Here are a few strategies for farming high-tier Waystones:
Zana’s Map Device: Zana, the NPC who manages the map device in the game, allows players to enhance and modify their maps. By using the map device to apply modifiers (such as special incursion mods), you can increase the chance of high-tier loot, including Tier 16+ Waystones. These modifiers might make enemies tougher, but they often yield better rewards.
Map Divination Cards: Some Divination Cards in the game are specifically designed to give players Waystones. Farming areas known for having these cards or running map farming strategies in high-tier zones will increase the likelihood of obtaining the required Waystones.
Influenced Maps: Maps that are influenced by specific bosses or gods (such as the Elder or Shaper) have higher chances of dropping high-tier Waystones. Make sure to seek out these areas to maximize your chances.
4. Trading with Other Players
If farming Tier 16+ Waystones proves to be too difficult or time-consuming, trading with other players is always an option. Since Waystones are a common item that players often collect and trade, you can use the Path of Exile 2 trade system to buy them from others.
To maximize your trading experience, use these tips:
Check the Trade Market: Use the official PoE 2 trade site or in-game trading tools to search for Tier 16+ Waystones. Many players will list these stones for sale in exchange for currency or items.
Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. Players may list Waystones at high prices, but some may be willing to lower the cost, especially if they have multiple stones available.
Trade Carefully: Always be cautious when trading with other players. Make sure to use secure trading platforms to avoid scams.
5. Leagues and Special Events
During special Challenge Leagues or seasonal events, Path of Exile 2 may feature unique mechanics that make acquiring Tier 16+ Waystones easier. These leagues often introduce new bosses, areas, and loot systems that provide opportunities for players to acquire high-tier Waystones in innovative ways.
For example, some leagues may increase the drop rate of high-level Waystones or introduce new endgame mechanics that directly lead to their acquisition. Always pay attention to new league mechanics and how they can benefit your progression.
Maximizing Your Efficiency in Obtaining Tier 16+ Waystones
Optimize Your Build: Tier 16+ maps are tough, and your build will be tested like never before. Be sure to optimize your character’s damage output, survivability, and mobility to handle the increased difficulty of high-tier maps and bosses.
Use Map Mods Wisely: Pay attention to the map mods that come with each map, especially if they have a negative impact on your character’s survival. Using the right flasks, resistances, and gear can make a big difference.
Farm in the Right Zones: Certain regions or map tiles have better chances of dropping high-tier loot, including Waystones. Focus your farming in those regions to increase the efficiency of your grind.
Conclusion
Acquiring Tier 16+ Waystones in cheap Path of Exile 2 Currency is a significant achievement in the endgame progression. Whether you are unlocking Waystones through completing difficult map challenges, defeating endgame bosses, farming specific areas, or trading with other players, the journey to obtaining these coveted stones will test your skill, strategy, and persistence. With Tier 16+ Waystones in hand, you’ll unlock some of the most rewarding and challenging content PoE 2 has to offer, and push your character to its absolute limits.
By following the methods outlined in this guide, you will be well on your way to accessing the highest tiers of the game’s endgame, reaping powerful loot, and becoming a master of the Path of Exile 2 universe.