Currency Farming Strategies for the Trial of the Sekhemas in Path of Exile 2
The Trial of the Sekhemas, commonly referred to as Sanctum, is the first ascendency trial introduced in Path of Exile 2. While Sanctum presents a unique and challenging gameplay experience, it is also an excellent opportunity to farm currency. This guide focuses on the currency farming aspects of Sanctum, offering detailed strategies for maximizing your profits. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to this content, these tips will help you make the most out of your Sanctum runs.
Should You Farm Sanctum?
Before diving into Sanctum farming, there are a few factors you need to consider to determine if your build is suitable:
- Build Speed: A fast build makes it easier to traverse Sanctum’s vast areas.
- Build Strength: Strength is only critical for fighting Zarok, the final boss. While not mandatory, a strong build opens up more options.
- Startup Cost: Relic setups are essential for profitable runs and can cost anywhere from 1 to 25+ divines.
If your build meets these criteria or you’re willing to invest in the necessary relics, Sanctum farming can be highly rewarding.
Ways to Earn Currency in Sanctum
There are three primary ways to farm currency in Sanctum: Magic Relics, Unique Relics, and Jewels. Each method is detailed below.
Magic Relics
Magic relics are common drops in Sanctum, obtained from monsters, chests, or the merchant shop. The most valuable relics include:
| Relic Type | Key Modifiers | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Seals and Urns | Increased quantity of relics, maximum life, defenses, or honor | 1+ Divine (if maxed) |
| Tapestries and Amphoras | Additional merchant choices, reduced merchant prices | High (if both modifiers are present) |
Unique Relics
Unique relics are obtained by defeating Zarok. The most valuable unique relics are:
| Relic | Drop Chance | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Desperate Alliance Vase | 15% | 2.5 Divines |
| Last Flame Incense | 0.5% | 330-390 Divines |
Increasing your relic quantity significantly boosts the chance of obtaining unique relics, making this a key strategy for maximizing profits.
Jewels
Jewels are another lucrative source of currency in Sanctum. There are four types of jewels to look out for:
- Standard Magic and Rare Jewels: Found throughout Sanctum and in Royal Caches.
- Time-Lost Jewels: Found exclusively in Time-Lost Caches.
- Grand Spectrum Jewels: Found in Spectrum Caches (e.g., Sapphire GS valued at 9 Divines).
- Against the Darkness Jewels: Found by running the Desperate Alliance Relic.
For Against the Darkness jewels, you can sell them unidentified for a consistent profit or identify them for a chance at higher returns. However, identifying them carries a risk.
Relic Setup Strategies
Your relic setup directly impacts your Sanctum profits. While there’s no one-size-fits-all setup, the following strategies can help guide your choices:
Comfort-Oriented Setup
Prioritize relics that enhance your ease of play, such as increased honor, movement speed, or damage. This setup is ideal for beginners or players on a budget.
Merchant Strategy
This setup focuses on reducing merchant prices and maximizing choices. Key relics include:
- Silver Tongue Boon: Reduces merchant prices by 50%.
- Enchanted Urn: Further reduces merchant prices.
With this setup, you can potentially buy out entire shops for free, trivializing Sanctum runs.
Quantity-Focused Setup
For players aiming to maximize profits, stack as much increased quantity of relics as possible. Key breakpoints include:
| Quantity % | Effect |
|---|---|
| 100% | Guarantees one additional unique relic drop. |
| 180% | Maximum possible quantity without boons. |
| 234% | With Enchanted Ear Boon, three guaranteed unique relic drops. |
Tips for Efficient Sanctum Farming
To maximize your efficiency and profits, keep the following tips in mind:
- Carry Scrolls of Wisdom and Augmentation Orbs to manage inventory.
- Path towards sacred water fountains and merchants whenever possible.
- Avoid gauntlets unless necessary, as they are time-consuming.
- Focus on acquiring valuable boons like Silver Tongue and Enchanted Urn early in your runs.
- Steer clear of harmful afflictions like Blunt Sword and Myriad Aspersions.
Why Sanctum Is Worth Your Time
While Sanctum’s profitability depends on your luck and setup, its potential for high-value drops like the Last Flame Incense makes it one of the best farming strategies in Path of Exile 2. Even players with limited playtime can benefit from its jackpot potential, making it a worthwhile activity for everyone.