Mastering the Labyrinths in Path of Exile: A Complete Guide

The Path of Exile Labyrinths: A Complete Guide
The Labyrinths in Path of Exile are a series of challenging trials that test your skills, strategy, and build efficiency. This guide will walk you through the different types of labyrinths, how to unlock them, and tips for navigating their dangers.
Contents:
- Normal Labyrinth
- Cruel Labyrinth
- Merciless Labyrinth
- Eternal Labyrinth (Uber Lab)
- Tips for Simplifying Labyrinth Runs
- FAQ
Normal Labyrinth
The Normal Labyrinth is designed for players around levels 30-34. It serves as an introduction to labyrinth mechanics with simpler traps and fewer connecting rooms. To unlock it, complete the following challenges:
- Act 1: The Lower Prison - Floor Thorns
- Act 2: The Crypt Level 1 - Spinning Swords
- Act 2: The Chamber of Sins Level 2 - Saws
- Act 3: The Crematorium - Floor of Fire
- Act 3: The Catacombs - Moving Spike Cars
- Act 3: The Imperial Gardens - Poisoned Darts
By this stage, most builds will have acquired essential skill and support gems, making the Normal Labyrinth a great opportunity to practice without significant risk.

Cruel Labyrinth
Available for characters at levels 50-55, the Cruel Labyrinth introduces greater difficulty. Unlock it by completing these trials:
- Act 6: The Prison - Floor Thorns
- Act 7: The Crypt - Spinning Swords
- Act 7: The Chamber of Sins Level 2 - Saws
Timing your run depends on your build and Ascendancy class. If passing the labyrinth grants a key talent that accelerates leveling, consider completing it earlier. Otherwise, prioritize leveling up before tackling this challenge.
Tip: Complete the Cruel Labyrinth during Relentless Mode, just before facing Kitava in Act 10, to maintain optimal resistances.
Merciless Labyrinth
Aimed at levels 63-65, the Merciless Labyrinth significantly raises the stakes with dangerous trap combinations and golden doors. Unlock it by overcoming these obstacles:
- Act 8: The Bath House - Floor of Fire
- Act 9: The Tunnel - Moving Spike Cars
- Act 10: The Ossuary - Poisoned Darts
We strongly recommend completing the Merciless Labyrinth before defeating Kitava in Act 10 to preserve your resistances.
Eternal Labyrinth (Uber Lab)
The Eternal Labyrinth represents the pinnacle of labyrinth challenges. Its trials appear randomly on maps and include:
- Trial of Piercing Truth - Floor Thorns
- Trial of Swirling Fear - Spinning Swords
- Trial of Crippling Grief - Saws
- Trial of Burning Rage - Floor of Fire
- Trial of Lingering Pain - Moving Spike Cars
- Trial of Stinging Doubt - Poisoned Darts
To access the Eternal Labyrinth, you’ll need an Offering to the Goddess item, which drops upon completing any Eternal Labyrinth trial for the first time. These items can also be purchased fr om other players for approximately 2-4 Chaos Orbs each.
Before attempting the Eternal Labyrinth, ensure your character has sufficient resistance (at least 60%) and health/energy shield (4,500+). New players should avoid engaging Argus, the mini-boss who provides a key, until they’re fully prepared.
For experienced players, focus on optimizing damage output or mastering trap avoidance techniques before taking on the final boss, Izaro.
Tips for Simplifying Labyrinth Runs
Here are strategies to make labyrinth runs more manageable:
- Mysterious Shrines: Locate and activate these shrines for permanent buffs that weaken traps or enhance your character.
- Weaken Izaro Early: Disable his abilities during the first two encounters to simplify the final battle.
- Culling Strike Support: Use this gem to reduce Izaro’s starting health to 30%, making the fight far less daunting.
- Use Prophecies: The Dream Trial prophecy increases the chance of encountering labyrinth trials while opening new maps.
- Join the Global Channel: Enter "/join 820 en" to join a community channel wh ere players share free Uber Lab trials.
- Professional Assistance: For guaranteed success, consider purchasing Uber Lab completions via services like Boost-store.
FAQ
Constantly Dying in Climbing Challenges/Labyrinths?
Stay patient and conserve your flasks. Most areas offer safe spots where you can recover health or wait out active traps. During fights with Izaro, circle-strafe to minimize damage and observe his attack patterns closely.
- Health-Based Builds: Equip additional life flasks and invoke the Younger God Ryslatu to restore flask charges without killing enemies.
- Energy Shield Builds: Focus on trap avoidance and finding safe zones to recharge your energy shield.
Warning: Avoid rushing into the Eternal Labyrinth unprepared. Ensure your character meets the recommended stats and gear requirements to survive its challenges.
Final Thoughts
The Labyrinths in Path of Exile offer rewarding experiences for both beginners and seasoned players. With proper preparation and strategic planning, even the most daunting challenges become conquerable. Whether you're seeking rare loot, unique rewards, or simply testing your skills, the labyrinths provide endless opportunities for growth and discovery.
For further guidance on leveling up your character or obtaining specific items, explore our guides on Exalted Orb Usage and Power Leveling Strategies.