Path of Exile 2 Runes of Aldur League Starter Guide — What to Know Before May 29

Patch 0.5 'Return of the Ancients' is the final major Early Access update for PoE2. GGG packed it with content: a new league, two Ascendancy classes, a rebuilt Atlas, and major QoL improvements.

League Mechanic: Ezomyte Runesmithing

In the Clearfell region, players meet blacksmith Farrow, who introduces Ezomyte Runesmithing. The loop:

• Activate remnants scattered throughout maps;
• Gather crafting resources from remnants;
• Craft runes from 100+ new types and socket them into gear for upgrades.

Tip: Don't skip remnants while rushing maps — they're the primary source of rune materials and Atlas progress resources.

Ascendancy Choice: Spiritwalker or Martial Artist?

Spiritwalker — attacks via spirit projections, uses the new Runic Ward defensive resource. Ranged and hybrid friendly. Expected to be top-tier for map clearing.

Martial Artist — melee class with a combo and dodge system. High skill ceiling, rewarding at endgame, harder for newer players.

For your first league character: Spiritwalker — safer, more forgiving gear requirements.

Atlas: How to Navigate 400+ New Nodes

• Prioritize nodes tied to the league mechanic for bonus remnant drops;
• Use the new live Atlas search bar to navigate the expanded tree;
• Don't rush all point allocation — some nodes only shine in T16+ maps.

QoL: Build Planner and Item Price Checker

• Build Planner — follow top creator guides with branching Passive Tree paths directly in-game;
• Built-in item price checker — check values without alt-tabbing.

Day One Tips

1. Pick your Ascendancy before launch and read guides via the Build Planner;
2. Engage the league mechanic in Campaign — remnants grant XP and materials even pre-endgame;
3. Check Upgradeable Uniques before selling — your stash might have a needed base item;
4. Define your Atlas strategy (Boss, Delve, Mapping) before entering T10+ maps.