Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) continues the tradition of delivering a complex and rewarding loot-based experience, and one of the standout features in this new chapter of the game is the Unique Strongbox system. Strongboxes are a type of interactable object found in the world of Wraeclast, and they can provide players with immense rewards—but also come with unique challenges. In PoE 2, these unique versions of POE 2 Currency strongboxes are often tied to more advanced loot and intricate mechanics that can make or break your experience.
This guide will dive into the ins and outs of Unique Strongboxes in Path of Exile 2, including how to find them, how to open them, and most importantly, how to prepare for and maximize the rewards you can get from them.
What are Unique Strongboxes?
Unique Strongboxes are a rare and special type of Strongbox in Path of Exile 2. These are similar to regular strongboxes, which are found throughout the game world and can be opened by players. However, Unique Strongboxes are more challenging and rewarding, often associated with unique monsters, rare items, and specific modifiers that set them apart from their common counterparts.
When you open a Strongbox, it releases a number of enemies, and upon their defeat, you receive rewards. The twist with Unique Strongboxes is that they are more challenging and come with special attributes or conditions that can make them more difficult to open but also increase the rewards you’ll receive. These strongboxes are typically more tied to endgame content or high-level areas, and as such, they require preparation and understanding to fully exploit.
How to Find Unique Strongboxes
Unique Strongboxes are not as common as regular strongboxes, and you can encounter them in a few different ways. They are usually associated with high-level areas or specific content. Here are some methods for finding them:
1. Random Spawns in Maps
Like regular strongboxes, Unique Strongboxes can spawn as part of the environment in the map. These strongboxes often appear in areas that are high-level, such as Tier 14 maps and higher, and are sometimes spawned by modifiers tied to the map or certain boss fights.
Map Modifiers: Certain map modifiers can increase the likelihood of encountering a Unique Strongbox. For example, if a map has a modifier that adds extra chest drops or increases chest rarity, you may be more likely to encounter a Unique Strongbox.
Map Fragments: Some map fragments, such as those from the Shaper, Elder, or Conqueror encounters, can increase the chance of finding Unique Strongboxes in specific areas. These fragments can open up portals to areas that contain rarer chests.
2. Specific Encounter Triggers
Certain endgame encounters or bosses may trigger the spawn of Unique Strongboxes. These special encounters could drop fragments or map pieces that lead to POE 2 Currency for sale the appearance of Unique Strongboxes as a reward for completing the encounter or challenge.
Delirium Encounters: In Delirium content, some maps will spawn Unique Strongboxes that drop rare rewards when completed. The more challenging the encounter, the better the reward.
Breach Encounters: Certain Breach Zones may have Unique Strongboxes hidden within them, offering higher-tier rewards or triggering special challenges when opened.
3. Influenced Zones
Strongboxes in influenced zones—areas affected by powerful entities like The Shaper, The Elder, or The Conquerors—are often upgraded to Unique versions. These zones are commonly more dangerous but yield more lucrative rewards.
Shaper-Elder Influences: Zones or maps influenced by The Shaper or The Elder tend to spawn Unique Strongboxes. These boxes often drop highly sought-after loot such as Exalted Orbs, High-Tier Crafting Materials, and other valuable endgame items.
Conqueror of the Atlas: Completing the Conqueror endgame content often results in the spawning of Unique Strongboxes as part of the Atlas progression.