How to Get Support Gems in PoE 2
Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) is an upcoming sequel to the popular action RPG, Path of Exile, known for its deep character customization, complex gameplay mechanics, and vast passive skill tree. One of the key features that make PoE stand out is its gem system, which allows players to customize their skills using skill gems and support gems. In this article, we’ll focus on how to get support gems in PoE 2, a crucial aspect of building effective skill combinations.
Understanding Support Gems in PoE 2
Before diving into how to obtain support gems, it’s important to understand their role. Support gems are a type of gem that modifies or enhances the behavior of skill gems. When a support gem is linked with a skill gem in a piece of equipment, it alters how the skill works. For example, a Fireball skill gem might be paired with a Chain Support gem to make the fireballs bounce between enemies.
Support gems are not standalone skills but rather enhancers that allow for greater flexibility and customization in your builds. They can increase damage, improve area of effect, grant additional projectiles, or even change the skill’s mechanics entirely.
How to Get Support Gems in PoE 2
Acquiring support gems in PoE 2 can be done through various methods, each with its own advantages and challenges. Below are the primary ways to obtain support gems:
1. Dropping from Monsters
Monster Drops are one of the most common ways to obtain support gems. As you progress through the game and defeat enemies, there’s a chance that monsters will drop gems, including support gems.
The drop rate for support gems depends on the difficulty level and the type of monsters you’re fighting. Higher-level monsters and bosses tend to drop rarer and more powerful gems.
Tip: Farming in higher-level zones and endgame content increases your chances of finding rare support gems.
2. Gem Corruption
Gem Corruption is a system that allows you to modify gems using corruption orbs. While this method is risky, it can potentially grant you a random support gem.
To corrupt a gem, simply use a corruption orb on it. Keep in mind that corruption is permanent and can either improve or degrade the gem.
3. Crafting
Crafting is another way to obtain specific support gems. By using crafting orbs and meta-modifiers, you can craft support gems with desired properties.
Crafting requires a good understanding of the game’s crafting system and may involve some trial and error. However, it’s a reliable method if you’re looking for a specific support gem.
4. Trading with Other Players
In PoE 2, trading with other players is a viable way to acquire support gems. You can exchange currency items (like chaos orbs or exalted orbs) for the support gems you need.
To trade effectively, use trading platforms or in-game trade channels to find sellers. Always negotiate prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
5. Quest Rewards
Completing quests and side missions can also reward you with support gems. Some quests are designed to introduce players to the gem system, so they often include support gems as rewards.
Pay attention to storyline quests and vendor recipes, as they often provide valuable gems.
Upgrading Support Gems
Once you’ve acquired a support gem, you can upgrade it by using gem experience. Each time you kill enemies, your gems gain experience, and when they level up, their quality and effectiveness improve. Higher-level support gems have better stats, making them more potent in enhancing your skill gems.
Combining Skill and Support Gems
The true power of PoE 2 lies in linking skill gems with support gems. For example:
Pairing a Lightning Strike skill gem with a Pierce Support gem allows the lightning to pass through enemies, hitting multiple targets.
Using a Ball Lightning skill gem with a Cluster Traps Support gem creates a cluster of traps that explode, dealing massive damage.
Case Study: Farming for a Specific Support Gem
Let’s say you’re looking for a Multistrike Support gem to enhance your melee build. Here’s how you might approach it:
Identify Zones: Focus on farming in high-level zones like the Glennach Cairns or