Path of Exile enthusiasts are gearing up for a landmark occasion this Friday as the game’s first new league in nearly a year launches. Developers have released a comprehensive FAQ addressing common player inquiries about Secrets of the Atlas.
Atlas Revealed – Key Details
The revamped Mercenary system dominates player curiosity. Designers clarified initial details regarding equipment compatibility, revealing that each Mercenary’s attribute alignment dictates permissible gear combinations. An illustrative scenario was provided:
For instance: A Strength-aligned Mercenary can utilize gear demanding Strength alone or paired with Dexterity/Intelligence. Dual-attribute Dexterity/Intelligence recruits can equip items requiring either or both attributes.
Additional regulations include Mercenaries needing to reach 70% of an item’s level requirement for usage, alongside innate weapon preferences. Key operational mechanics now confirmed:
- Map quantity modifiers influence elite Mercenary encounter rates
- “Link” skills function on companions, though they can’t activate “Trigger” mechanics
- Mercenaries remain unnameable and untradeable
- Recruitment applies account-wide, not per character
- Companions refuse collaboration if the player’s level trails theirs by over 20 ranks
Major changes include Catarina’s treasury removal and Syndicate interactions now pausing gameplay. While Kingsmarch expands immediately, contractor recruitment still requires funding.
Exclusive Abilities Unveiled
The expansion introduces exclusive “of Trarthus” skill variants obtainable solely through Mercenaries. While two were previously showcased, developers disclosed Wave of Conviction of Trarthus and Heavy Strike of Trarthus as additional combat options. These companions also offer gear with unique “infamous” modifiers – three examples are displayed below:
The Secrets of the Atlas expansion commences Friday at 1:00 pm PT.