Path of Exile 2: What are Soul Cores and how to get them

Path of Exile 2 ^[1] may be welcoming for newcomers and beginners to the ARPG genre, but that doesn’t mean everything’s straightforward. To ensure things remain fun for veterans of the series, the developer also added some technical features from the first Path of Exile 2, including how players construct their builds and the many currencies players must collect.

One of those said technical features are called Soul Cores that Path of Exile 2 players will want to learn about. These items can potentially take the player’s weapons and armor to the next level, though getting them is easier said than done. Fortunately, we’re here to go through everything about this sought-after item including explaining how it can take a build to the next level.

Without anymore delay, here’s everything players can do with Soul Cores and every way players can get them.

What are Soul Cores in Path of Exile 2?

Soul Cores are socketable items in Path of Exile 2 that enhance weapons and armor permanently. These upgrades can range from converting attribute requirements to increasing resistances or boosting critical damage. After equipping Soul Cores, players can remove or replace them, so they have to be sure they want to use it before putting it in. Soul Cores are similar to runes since they provide modifiers to gear, but they’re stronger and are only available in the endgame.

How to get Soul Cores in Path of Eixle 2?

Here are the two main ways to get Soul Cores in Path of Exile 2:

1. Trial of Chaos

The Trial of Chaos is an endgame activity in which completing it rewards players with Soul Cores. To begin a Trial of Chaos, players must get Ultimatums, a rare item enemies can drop. The quantity of Soul Cores a player obtains by finishing the trial depends on difficulty, with difficult trials providing more rewards.

For example, completing a level 76+ Inscribed Ultimatum guarantees three Soul Cores. Remember, the player has to complete the entire trial to receive every reward, so they must go in prepared.

2. Currency Exchange

Players can buy Soul cores through the Currency Exchange system by looking at market ratios and placing an order with the NPC. Due to high prices and market complexities, this method isn't beginner-friendly, however, so players should seek help from veterans who know what they’re doing.

Alternatively, if players don’t have the currency players or the NPC is looking for in exchange for Soul Cores, we have you covered. Just check out Eloking’s Path of Exile 2 marketplace and grab whatever currency you want to make life easier for yourself and removing the whole grinding factor of the game.

How to use Soul Cores?

Players can insert Soul Cores into empty gear sockets to activate its effects. The effects depend on what Soul Core is being used and what type of gear it’s being equipped into. For example, the Soul Core of Atmouha converts 20% of attribute requirements to Strength for martial weapons and armor. On the other hand, the Soul Core of Azcapa increases item rarity on armor and adds Spirit to weapons.

Gear sockets and adding sockets

Since gear sockets are crucial for applying Soul Cores and runes, players should aim to maximize the number of sockets on their gear. The total amount of sockets on an item depends on what type of gear it is, like chest armor and two-handing weapons having two sockets, while smaller items have one. 

Most items drop without sockets, so players need to use Artificer's Orbs to add them to the weapon. Players can get these orbs by combining ten Artificer’s Shards, which they obtain from dismantling socketing items. To use the orb, apply it to the gear to add a socket. 

Gamers can use a Vaal Orb to add an extra socket, but it can be a gamble since there’s a chance of it corrupting an item. Players should use the Vaal Orb on expendable items they can afford to lose.

FAQs

What do Soul Cores do in Path of Exile 2?

Soul Cores are socketable items in Path of Exile 2 that enhance weapons and armor permanently. These upgrades can range from converting attribute requirements to increasing resistances or boosting critical damage.

Are Soul Cores mandatory in Path of Exile 2?

Similar to other items in the game, Soul Cores aren’t mandatory in Path of Exile 2. However, they can potentially make a build stand out and take it to the next level.

References

1. [1] "Official PoE 2 website". pathofexile2.com. Retrieved January 04, 2025