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 presents unique challenges and mechanics, with structures like 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 near the Atlas starting point, Citadels require a bit more searching. The 0.1.1 update improves Citadel visibility, but if you're still struggling to locate them, these tips will help.
The Significance of Citadels
Citadels are unique map nodes, appearing as Iron, Copper, or Stone variants. Each houses a significantly powered-up campaign boss:
- Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Appears as a large city with black walls.
- Copper Citadel: Jamanra, The Abomination (Act 2 boss). Resembles a large encampment.
- Stone Citadel: Doryani (Act 3 boss). Looks like a stone pyramid.
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. Citadels are one-time challenges; once completed, they cannot be replayed.
Citadels offer exceptional loot, making them worthwhile targets.
Strategies for Locating Citadels
The 0.1.1 update enhances Citadel visibility with prominent beacons visible through the Fog of War.
If Citadels remain hidden, try these strategies:
- Linear Exploration: Travel in a straight line to maximize Fog of War removal and Atlas map visibility.
- Lost Tower Strategy: Prioritize Lost Towers; clearing them reveals a significant area, 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
Remember, Citadels rarely cluster. After discovering one, explore in a completely different direction. With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, any nearby Citadels should be easily spotted within a few map screens. If not, resume linear exploration to uncover their beacons.
