In Path of Exile 2, NPC vendors can be an essential part of your gameplay, offering everything from valuable items to currency exchange. Knowing when and how to spend your currency at these vendors can make a big difference in your overall progression. In this guide, we'll dive into the best times to spend your PoE 2 currency, helping you make the most out of every transaction.
1. Understand Vendor Prices and Offers
First, let’s break down what you’ll find at NPC vendors in PoE 2. Vendors offer a variety of goods, including skill gems, maps, and crafting materials. The prices of these items can fluctuate depending on in-game events, your progression, and your current needs. But, unlike the game’s more random loot drops, vendor goods are predictable, which is why it’s important to recognize the right time to buy.
Vendors will typically have a limited stock, and buying too early may lead to wasting currency on items you don’t need yet. On the other hand, waiting too long could result in missing out on crucial upgrades or boosts. The key is balancing your purchases with your progression through the game.
2. When to Buy Currency for Crafting
One of the most common reasons to spend your currency at NPC vendors is for crafting. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your gear or improve your skill gems, vendors often carry useful items for crafting, like catalysts or crafting bases. This is especially true as you get into the mid to late stages of the game, where crafting becomes a key part of gearing up.
It’s generally a good idea to buy these items when you’re getting close to a major upgrade or want to re-roll some of your gear. If you’re deep in endgame, it’s also worth looking for vendors who can sell high-quality crafting materials that can help you fine-tune your gear.
Another useful option is the ability to buy instantly from NPC vendors. While this is a luxury for later in the game when you’ve built up enough currency, being able to buy instantly saves time and ensures you don’t waste currency on unnecessary delays or hunting for rare items.
3. PoE 2 Currency Buying Strategy
Managing your PoE 2 currency wisely is an important part of long-term success in the game. Knowing when to hold onto your currency and when to spend it is crucial. A big temptation is to spend early, especially when you’ve accumulated a good chunk of currency, but this can often lead to buying items that aren’t worth the investment yet.
A smart strategy is to wait until you’ve reached key checkpoints in your gameplay. For instance, if you’ve just completed a major Act or challenge, this may be the perfect time to see what vendors have for sale to help you push further. Currency spent in these moments can make a big difference in progressing without feeling bogged down by poor gear or crafting limitations.
4. Keep an Eye on Special Events
Certain events, such as seasonal updates or special challenges, often introduce new items or discounts at NPC vendors. If you’re playing during one of these events, it’s a great opportunity to spend your currency on rare or limited-time goods that could give you an edge in the game. These events are usually highlighted by the developers, so stay tuned to the announcements and look out for any special vendor offers.
5. Currency Loops and Trading
While NPC vendors are a solid source of items and upgrades, some players prefer to use their currency for trading with other players. Trading can sometimes provide better deals or access to rare items that vendors may not offer. This is especially true for high-demand crafting materials or specific gear sets. If you’re looking for specific upgrades, consider exploring community marketplaces and trading options rather than relying solely on vendors.
That said, there’s a delicate balance between trading and spending on NPC vendors. Sometimes, a vendor may have a rare crafting material that you need for a specific project, and purchasing it could be a better deal than waiting for it to pop up in the trade market.
FAQ
1. What types of items can I buy from NPC vendors?Vendors typically offer skill gems, crafting materials, maps, and occasionally high-end gear, depending on your progression in the game.
2. Can I buy currency from NPC vendors directly?No, you cannot purchase PoE 2 currency directly from NPC vendors. Currency in the game is usually acquired through completing quests, killing monsters, or trading with other players.
3. How can I get currency to spend at vendors?You can earn currency by completing missions, selling unwanted items to vendors, or trading with other players. Grinding through maps is also a consistent way to acquire currency.
4. Is there a time limit for vendor items?Yes, the stock at vendors refreshes regularly. Some vendors also carry rare or limited-time items during special events, so keep an eye on announcements for any time-limited offers.
5. Can I trade items bought from NPC vendors?Some items, such as crafting materials or skill gems, can be traded with other players. However, gear and some other vendor-purchased items may be non-tradable.
6. What is the best time to buy from vendors?The best time to buy from vendors is when you’re at a major milestone in the game—like finishing an Act or gearing up for endgame content. This ensures that your purchases are aligned with your progression.
7. Should I always use my currency immediately?Not necessarily. It’s often better to save up for big purchases or wait for vendor stocks to refresh, especially if you're holding out for specific crafting materials or upgrades. Patience can sometimes pay off.
8. Can I buy items from NPC vendors with real money?No, PoE 2 does not allow you to directly buy items from NPC vendors using real money. Currency in the game is earned through gameplay, and all purchases must be made using in-game currency.