Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) introduces a revamped crafting system that is both approachable for beginners and deep enough for veterans. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crafting in PoE2, from the basics of item modifiers to advanced crafting strategies. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your gear or create the perfect endgame item, this guide has you covered.
1. Understanding Crafting in PoE2
Crafting in PoE2 is a core mechanic that allows players to modify and enhance their gear. Unlike PoE1, PoE2 simplifies the crafting process while retaining depth. The system revolves around using currency orbs to add, remove, or modify affixes (prefixes and suffixes) on items.
Key Changes from PoE
- No Scouring Orbs: You cannot revert a Rare or Magic item to a White (uncrafted) state, making White items more valuable.
- Sockets on Gems: Sockets are now tied to skill gems, not gear, and are automatically linked, removing the need for Orbs of Fusing.
- Simplified Crafting: The system is designed to be more accessible, with fewer RNG-heavy mechanics compared to PoE.
2. Crafting Basics
Item Rarity and Affixes
Items in PoE2 come in four rarities:
- Normal (White): No affixes.
- Magic (Blue): Up to 1 prefix and 1 suffix.
- Rare (Yellow): Up to 3 prefixes and 3 suffixes.
- Unique (Orange): Predetermined modifiers, cannot be crafted further.
Crafting Currencies
Here are the primary crafting currencies and their uses:
| Currency | Effect |
|---|---|
| Orb of Transmutation | Upgrades a Normal item to Magic, adding 1 affix. |
| Orb of Augmentation | Adds a random affix to a Magic item. |
| Orb of Alchemy | Upgrades a Normal item to Rare, adding 4 affixes. |
| Regal Orb | Upgrades a Magic item to Rare, adding 1 affix. |
| Exalted Orb | Adds a random affix to a Rare item. |
| Chaos Orb | Re-rolls all affixes on a Rare item. |
| Vaal Orb | Corrupts an item, adding unpredictable effects. |
3. Advanced Crafting Strategies in PoE2
Essences
Essences are a deterministic way to craft items. They guarantee a specific affix when used:
- Regular Essences: Upgrade Normal items to Magic with a specific affix.
- Greater Essences: Upgrade Magic items to Rare with a specific affix.
Runes and Soul Cores
- Runes: Socketable glyphs that add moderate stat buffs to weapons and armor.
- Soul Cores: Stronger versions of Runes with unique modifiers. Once socketed, they cannot be removed.
Omens
Omens modify the effects of crafting currencies. For example:
- Omen of Sinistral Alchemy: Ensures the next Orb of Alchemy adds the maximum number of prefix modifiers.
- Omen of Dextral Annulment: Ensures the next Orb of Annulment removes only suffix modifiers.
4. Crafting Process
Step-by-Step Crafting
- Start with a Base Item: Choose a White item with a good base type (e.g., high armor for chest pieces).
- Upgrade Rarity: Use an Orb of Transmutation to turn it into a Magic item.
- Add Affixes: Use an Orb of Augmentation to add a second affix.
- Upgrade to Rare: Use a Regal Orb to turn it into a Rare item.
- Refine Affixes: Use Exalted Orbs to add more affixes or Chaos Orbs to re-roll them.
Disenchanting
Disenchant Magic and Rare items at vendors to obtain currency shards, which can be combined into full orbs.
5. Best Base Items for Crafting
Weapons
- Dual String Bow: Fires an additional arrow, ideal for bow builds.
- Exploding Mace: Enemies explode on critical kills, great for AoE builds.
Armor
- Expert Scale Mail: Balanced armor and evasion for hybrid builds.
- Pathfinder Coat: Reduces slow effects, useful for mobility-focused builds.
Jewelry
- Prismatic Ring: +10% to all Elemental Resistances, versatile for all builds.
- Solar Amulet: Increases aura effect, perfect for support builds.
6. Tips for Efficient Crafting
- Focus on High-Tier Bases: Higher item levels allow for higher-tier affixes.
- Use Essences for Deterministic Crafting: Guarantee specific affixes to save currency.
- Leverage Omens: Modify crafting outcomes to minimize RNG.
- Disenchant Unwanted Items: Convert unused gear into crafting materials.
Crafting in Path of Exile 2 (POE2) is a rewarding and essential part of the game. By understanding the basics of item modifiers, using the right crafting currencies, and leveraging advanced strategies like Essences and Omens, you can create powerful gear tailored to your build. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, this guide will help you master the art of crafting in PoE2.
You can also check out the Guide to PoE 2 Farming: Best Builds Revealed.