Unlocking and Utilizing the Salvage Bench in Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2 introduces several changes compared to its predecessor, enhancing gameplay with a more deliberate combat and progression style. Among these innovations, the revamped Crafting mechanics stand out, particularly the new Salvage system.

In this sequel, players have the ability to Salvage select gear to acquire upgrade currencies. However, there are limitations on what can be Salvaged, as players must take steps within the main campaign to unlock this feature at the Salvage Bench.

Understanding the Path of Exile 2 Salvage System

The Salvage mechanic in Path of Exile 2 allows players to part with older gear efficiently. In addition to selling items for Gold, players can disenchant Magic and Rare equipment for currency fragments. Specifically, they can Salvage eligible gear to earn Artificer’s Shards and various Quality Improvement currencies.

It’s important to note that not all equipment can be Salvaged. Only gear featuring Rune Sockets or Quality attributes can be processed through the Salvage system. Items with Rune Sockets yield Artificer’s Shards, while gear with Quality can provide one of three distinct Quality Currencies: Blacksmith’s Whetstone, Artificer’s Whetstone, or Armorer’s Scrap, depending on the item type.

To determine whether an item has Rune Sockets, simply hover over it in your Inventory or check for a white dot next to the item names found on the ground. One dot signifies one Rune Socket, while two dots denote two Rune Sockets.
Quality values for unidentified gear can only be discovered after identifying the item. The Quality bonus will appear beneath the item’s name in your Inventory if applicable.

Normal items will salvage into the same materials as Rare items, so players with a Loot Filter should consider setting an exception for Normal gear that meets the Sockets or Quality criteria. When Salvaged, players receive 1 Artificer’s Shard for items with 1 Rune Socket and 2 Artificer’s Shards for items with 2 Rune Sockets.

After accumulating 10 Artificer’s Shards, players can obtain an Artificer’s Orb, which enables the addition of a Rune Socket to a piece of gear. This allows for the placement of Runes, enhancing both damage and defense stats for that gear. Most gear types are limited to one Rune Socket, except for two-handed weapons and chest armors, which can accommodate two Rune Sockets.

Enhancing gear with Quality attributes results in gathering Quality Currency shards. All upgrade materials that contribute to Quality will boost the item’s Quality by up to 4% per shard, capping at a maximum of 20%.

Unlocking the Salvage Bench in Path of Exile 2

To begin using the Salvage mechanic, players must first unlock the Salvage Bench located in town. This feature is not available from the start; players need to progress through a fair portion of Act 1 to gain access.

The Salvage system becomes available after completing the quest titled ‘Finding The Forge’ from Renly. In this quest, Renly tasks you with retrieving his blacksmithing tools from the ruined Ogham Village.

Ogham Village is a significant area that players encounter as the storyline advances towards Ogham Manor to confront the Count. Note that this village is classified as a Monster Level 13 area; thus, it is advisable to reach at least Level 13 before venturing into this zone.

Keep in mind that you cannot begin this quest until after completing ‘Secrets In The Dark.’

Although maps in Path of Exile 2 are procedurally generated, players should be on the lookout for specific landmarks when searching for Renly’s Tools. As you explore the fields of this zone, focus on locating a cluster of devastated buildings. A Checkpoint is typically situated just outside this area.

If you’re having difficulty finding Renly’s Tools, consider clearing out the Fog of War along the map’s edges since the ruined village generally appears near the border rather than at the edge of the map.

Some players have reported that the tools often spawn in the Northeast or Southeast parts of the zone, or on the side opposite the Executioner boss area.

After you’ve unlocked the Checkpoint, enter the ruined village, retrieve Renly’s Tools, and return to town using a Portal. Present the tools to Renly, complete the quest, and you will successfully unlock the Salvage Bench.

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