Path of Exile, known for its depth and complexity, offers players countless customization options for their characters. One of the most intriguing aspects of this game is Corrupted gear. Understanding how Corruption affects your items can be a game-changer. This guide will break down everything you need to know about Corrupted gear, including its effects, how to corrupt items, and where to find them.

What Is Corruption?

Corruption is a special modifier in Path of Exile that adds a layer of complexity to item management. When an item is corrupted, it becomes unable to be modified further using traditional methods. This means that once an item is corrupted, you cannot use currency items like Orbs of Alteration or Exalted Orbs on it.

For example, consider a Nitrate Greater Mana Flask with the Corrupted modifier. This flask will retain its current properties, but you won’t be able to upgrade or alter it in any way. In some cases, corrupted items retain their original benefits without any downsides, but this isn't always the case. The unpredictable nature of Corruption can sometimes lead to negative outcomes, making it a risky but potentially rewarding mechanic.

How To Corrupt Gear

There are two primary methods for corrupting items in Path of Exile: using Vaal Orbs and interacting with Altars of Corruption.

1. Using a Vaal Orb

Vaal Orbs are a type of currency specifically designed to corrupt items. When you apply a Vaal Orb to an item, it corrupts the item in a manner that is often unpredictable. The results can vary from adding new modifiers to completely changing the item’s properties. Importantly, once an item is corrupted with a Vaal Orb, it cannot be modified further by any other means.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a Vaal Orb:

Acquire a Vaal Orb: You can obtain Vaal Orbs from various sources, including vendors, quests, or as drops from monsters.

Select the Item: Choose the item you want to corrupt.

Apply the Vaal Orb: Use the Vaal Orb on the item. Be prepared for any outcome, as the corruption process can be highly unpredictable.

2. Using an Altar of Corruption

Altars of Corruption function similarly to Vaal Orbs but do not require the orb itself. Instead, you need to find an Altar of Corruption in specific locations within the game.

Locus of Corruption: This is an incursion area within the Temple of Atzoatl. The altar here offers a chance to corrupt an item with one or two new modifiers. However, there is also a risk that the item could be destroyed or that its sockets may turn white.

Vaal Ruins: Found in Act Two, the Vaal Ruins also contain a Corruption Altar. This area offers a chance to corrupt items similarly to using a Vaal Orb and can be accessed relatively early in the game.

Both methods involve a risk-reward scenario. Corrupting items can yield powerful enhancements or disastrous results, so use these tools wisely.

How To Find Corrupted Gear

Corrupted gear can be found throughout the world of Path of Exile. Here’s how you can locate such items:

Vaal Side Areas: These are randomly generated areas that occasionally spawn in the game world. They are often associated with Vaal-themed content and offer a guaranteed chance of finding corrupted items, including gems and gear.

Random Drops: Corrupted gear can also drop as random loot from monsters, chests, or vendors.

Exploring Vaal side areas is a great way to encounter corrupted items, as they provide a focused environment where these items are more likely to appear.

What Are Corrupted Gems?

Corrupted gems are a special category of skill gems that have undergone corruption. These gems cannot be modified further and typically offer enhanced or altered versions of the original skills.

For instance, a corrupted Ice Shot gem might become Vaal Ice Shot. This new version of the skill could include additional effects, such as summoning Mirage Sharpshooters, which were not present in the original skill.

Most corrupted gems are superior to their non-corrupted counterparts, making them highly desirable. To maximize your benefit, actively seek out Vaal side areas and other locations where corrupted gems might drop.

Conclusion

Corrupted gear adds an exciting layer of complexity to Path of Exile. By understanding how corruption works and how to obtain and utilize corrupted items, you can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Whether through Vaal Orbs, Altars of Corruption, or by finding corrupted gear in the wild, mastering these elements will help you achieve greater success in the dark and intricate world of Wraeclast.

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