Path of Exile 2: Mastering the Elusive Citadels
After conquering the main campaign and Acts 1-3 on Cruel difficulty, Path of Exile 2 players unlock the Endgame and the Atlas of Worlds. Navigating this Atlas reveals various structures offering unique challenges, including Realmgates, Lost Towers, Burning Monoliths, and the enigmatic Citadels.
Citadels, unlike more readily apparent structures, present a unique endgame challenge. While Lost Towers and other features are relatively easy to spot, Citadels require a more strategic approach. The 0.1.1 update improves Citadel visibility, but if you're still struggling to locate them, these tips will help.
The Importance of Citadels
Citadels are unique map nodes, existing in three forms: Iron, Copper, and Stone. Each houses a significantly empowered campaign boss:
- Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Identified by its large city appearance with black walls.
- Copper Citadel: Jamanra, the Abomination (Act 2 boss). Appears as a large encampment surrounding the map node.
- Stone Citadel: Doryani (Act 3 boss). Resembles a stone pyramid, similar to Act 3's ziggurats.
Defeating these bosses yields Crisis Fragments, crucial keys for accessing the Burning Monolith and its pinnacle boss, the Arbiter of Ash. This is essential for completing the "Pinnacle of Flame" quest. Citadels are also valuable for their high-quality loot. Each Citadel is a one-time encounter; once completed, it cannot be revisited.
Strategies for Finding Citadels
The 0.1.1 update significantly enhances Citadel visibility. A prominent light beacon now marks their location, even through the Fog of War.
If Citadels remain elusive, try these strategies:
- Linear Exploration: Travel in a straight line across the Atlas. This maximizes Fog of War clearing, expanding your map view.
- Lost Tower Strategy: Prioritize clearing Lost Towers. Their completion reveals a significant area, potentially uncovering nearby Citadels.
- Biome Targeting: Each Citadel type favors specific biomes:
- Iron Citadels: Grass or Forest biomes
- Copper Citadels: Desert biomes
- Stone Citadels: Coastal areas of any biome
- Strategic Spacing: Citadels rarely cluster. After finding one, explore in a completely different direction to increase your chances of finding another.
With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, Citadels should be easier to spot within a few screens of your explored areas. If they remain hidden, repeat the linear exploration strategy—a beacon will eventually guide you.
