POE2's equipment system features deep customization through various item types, modifiers, and socket systems. Understanding these systems is crucial for character optimization.
Items come in different rarity tiers: Normal, Magic, Rare, and Unique. Each tier offers different modification possibilities and power levels.
Equipment slots work together to provide your character's core defensive and offensive capabilities. Balancing stats across slots is key to build success.
Base types determine an item's core properties and potential modifier pools. Higher-tier bases generally offer better starting stats.
Implicit modifiers are inherent to certain base types and provide bonus stats before other modifications.
Explicit modifiers are additional stats that can be added through various crafting methods.
Item level affects what modifiers can appear on an item, with higher item levels enabling more powerful mods.
Sockets allow you to use skill gems and support gems in your equipment. Socket colors correspond to attribute requirements.
Socket links enable support gems to enhance active skill gems. Planning socket configurations is crucial for build effectiveness.
Some unique items and special bases have specific socket behaviors or limitations.
Socket crafting requires various currency items and understanding of crafting mechanics.
Advanced gearing involves understanding modifier pools, crafting methods, and how to optimize gear for specific build requirements.
Different slot types have different available modifier pools. Understanding these pools helps in crafting and evaluating items.
Balancing resistances, attributes, and other stats across gear pieces requires careful planning.
Prioritize stats based on your build's needs. Different builds value different modifiers differently.
Consider modifier tiers and their ranges when evaluating gear. Perfect rolls aren't always necessary.
Balance unique items with rare items to meet build requirements while maintaining build-enabling effects.
Plan attribute requirements across your gear to efficiently meet gem and equipment needs.
Different crafting methods suit different goals. Understand when to use each crafting approach.
Currency crafting provides randomized results but can be powerful with proper method selection.
Deterministic crafting through mechanics like Essences or special crafting systems offers more controlled results.
Meta-crafting techniques combine multiple crafting methods for optimal results but require significant investment.