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 readily visible structures, present a unique endgame challenge. While Lost Towers pierce the Fog of War, and Realmgates/Burning Monoliths are closer to the Atlas's starting point, Citadels require a more strategic approach. The 0.1.1 update enhances Citadel visibility, but if your Atlas remains Citadel-free, these tips will help you locate them.
What are Citadels and their Purpose?
Citadels are unique map nodes in PoE 2, categorized as Iron, Copper, and Stone. Each houses a significantly empowered campaign boss:
- Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Visually distinct as a large city 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, akin to Act 3's ziggurats.
Defeating these bosses yields Crisis Fragments—keys to unlock the Burning Monolith and its pinnacle boss, the Arbiter of Ash, completing the "Pinnacle of Flame" quest. Access requires a minimum Tier 15 Waystone. Each Citadel is a one-time challenge; once completed, it cannot be revisited.
Finding More Citadels: A Strategic Approach
The 0.1.1 update significantly improves Citadel visibility with prominent beacons visible through the Fog of War.
If Citadels remain hidden, employ these strategies:
- Linear Exploration: Travel in a straight line across the Atlas, maximizing Fog of War removal and map visibility.
- Lost Tower Strategy: Prioritize Lost Towers; their completion reveals significant areas, potentially uncovering nearby Citadels.
- Biome Targeting: Citadel types tend to spawn in 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 drastically different direction.
With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, beacons should be visible within a few map screens. If not, revert to the linear exploration strategy. Persistent exploration will ultimately reveal these elusive endgame challenges.
