Path of Exile: Deal with the Bandits Quest Walkthrough

In Path of Exile, the "Deal with the Bandits" quest in Act 2 is a crucial decision point that offers significant rewards and choices. Depending on how you handle this quest, you can either gain valuable bonuses or acquire additional Passive Points, which are crucial for character development. Here's a detailed walkthrough to help you navigate this quest efficiently.

Quest Overview

Quest Start:

To initiate the "Deal with the Bandits" quest, you need to be in Act 2. Head to The Forest Encampment and speak with Eramir to learn about the bandit leaders causing trouble in the region. You will need to decide whether to ally with these bandits or defeat them.

Bandit Leaders and Their Rewards

You'll encounter three bandits, each offering a unique passive bonus if you choose to help them. Alternatively, you can defeat all three to earn a Passive Point.

1. Kraityn (Broken Bridge)

Location: From the Old Fields, go through Crossroads to reach Broken Bridge.

Reward for Helping: +8% permanent movement speed.

Usage: This bonus can be useful for quick movement during the campaign but becomes less critical in endgame content where movement speed is easier to achieve through other means.

2. Alira (Western Forest)

Location: Access this area from the Riverways; Alira is opposite the Weaver's Chamber.

Reward for Helping: +15% to all Elemental Resistances.

Usage: This resistance bonus is significant as it helps counteract the -60 to all Elemental Resistances by the end of the campaign. It's particularly valuable if you struggle with resistances, making Alira a strong choice if you need additional defense.

3. Oak (The Wetlands)

Location: From the Riverways, head to The Wetlands.

Reward for Helping: +40 maximum life.

Usage: This bonus is beneficial, especially for classes like the Ranger that have limited access to life nodes. If your resistances are already sufficient, Oak's life bonus is a solid alternative.

Making Your Choice

1. Killing All Bandits

Reward: 1 Passive Point and The Apex quest item.

Procedure: Defeat Kraityn, Alira, and Oak. Collect their amulets and return to Eramir in The Forest Encampment to receive a Passive Point. Additionally, you will acquire The Apex, an essential quest item for accessing the Ancient Pyramid and completing Act 2.

2. Assisting Bandits

Trade-offs: Helping one bandit grants their specific reward but costs you the bonuses from the other bandits and the extra Passive Point.

Strategy: Choose based on your build's needs. If you require more resistances or life, prioritize Alira or Oak accordingly. If you are aiming to complete the quest quickly and efficiently, consider killing all bandits for the Passive Point and quest item.

Changing Your Decision

If you want to alter your initial choice, you can use a Vendor Recipe to adjust your bandit allegiance:

1. Vendor Recipe:

Requirements: 20 Orbs of Regret and a specific amulet.

Recipe Effect: Vendor these items to receive a Book of Reform, which allows you to change the Passive bonuses from your bandit choice.

2. Using the Book of Reform:

How to Use: Right-click the Book of Reform to apply the passive bonuses from a different bandit.

Cost Consideration: Since acquiring 20 Orbs of Regret can be costly, especially early in a league, evaluate if the change is worth the investment based on your current build and progress.

Summary

The "Deal with the Bandits" quest in Path of Exile offers a strategic choice that impacts your character's development. Whether you choose to defeat all the bandits for an additional Passive Point or help one for their specific bonus, consider your build's requirements and how the rewards align with your goals for both the campaign and endgame content.

Utilize Path of Exile currency and items effectively to optimize your quest rewards and character progression. With the right strategy, you can make the most out of this pivotal quest and enhance your gameplay experience.