Path of Exile 2: How To Find More Citadels

Path of Exile 2: Mastering the Elusive Citadels

After conquering the main campaign and Acts 1-3 on Cruel difficulty, players unlock the Endgame and the Atlas of Worlds. Navigating the Atlas map presents unique challenges and gameplay mechanics, with Citadels standing out as particularly elusive endgame objectives. Unlike readily visible structures like Lost Towers, Realmgates, and Burning Monoliths, Citadels require a bit more hunting. However, the 0.1.1 update introduces improvements to Citadel visibility.

The Importance of Citadels

Citadels are unique map nodes, appearing as Iron, Copper, or Stone variants. Each houses a significantly empowered campaign boss:

• Iron Citadel: Count Geonor (Act 1 boss). Identified by large black city 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 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. Citadels offer exceptional loot, but each can only be completed once.

Finding Citadels: Strategies and Tips

The 0.1.1 update enhances Citadel visibility with prominent beacons visible even through the Fog of War. However, if Citadels remain hidden, employ these strategies:

• Strategic Pathing: Travel in a straight line to maximize Fog of War clearing, revealing more of the Atlas. Prioritize exploring near any discovered Lost Towers, as their completion reveals a significant area.
• Biome Targeting: Citadel types tend to spawn in specific biomes:
  • Iron Citadels: Grass or Forest
  • Copper Citadels: Desert
  • Stone Citadels: Coastal areas
• Avoid Clustering: Multiple Citadels rarely appear close together. After finding one, explore in a drastically different direction.

With the 0.1.1 update's improved visibility, Citadels should be easily spotted within a few screens of revealed map areas. If not, revert to the straight-line pathing strategy – the beacons will guide you. Remember to use a Tier 15 or higher Waystone to access and activate each Citadel.