Unique items are among the most exciting rewards in Path of Exile 2, often acting as build-defining pieces or powerful leveling tools that make new characters far easier to play. Some Uniques can completely change how a skill functions, while others provide massive stat bonuses far earlier than rare gear normally allows.

Because of their power, Unique Path of Exile 2 Items are intentionally rare in PoE 2. That's why many players are surprised to learn there's an NPC hidden during the Interlude chapters who offers a completely free Unique item, no currency required. You can only choose one item per character, but the potential rewards are massive-sometimes even endgame-tier Uniques.

Here's everything you need to know about how to find the PoE 2 Unique items vendor, where he's located, and how to make the most of his one-time offer.

Who Is the Unique Items Vendor in PoE 2?

The NPC you're looking for is Elder Madox, a mysterious and reclusive figure found during the Interlude chapters of Path of Exile 2. Elder Madox does not behave like a standard vendor-he doesn't sell items for gold or currency. Instead, he offers something far more valuable.

When you speak with him, Elder Madox allows you to select one Unique item from his inventory for free. This interaction can only happen once per character, making it one of the most important optional encounters in the game.

Where to Find Elder Madox in Path of Exile 2

Location Overview

Elder Madox is located in Mount Kriar, specifically within the Kriar Peaks zone, during the Vaal Interlude chapter.

If you are already past Act 4 or deep into later content, don't worry-you can still reach him.

How to Reach Kriar Peaks

1. Speak with The Hooded One

2. Ask him to take you to the foot of Mount Kriar

3. Enter the Kriar Peaks zone

This zone features snowy terrain, vertical cliffs, and branching paths, which makes Elder Madox easy to miss if you're rushing through.

How to Locate Elder Madox in Kriar Peaks

Like many zones in Path of Exile 2, Kriar Peaks is procedurally generated, meaning Elder Madox's exact location will differ from run to run. However, his placement follows a few consistent patterns.

Key Exploration Tips

·Elder Madox always appears near the edge of the map

·He typically sits on a ledge overlooking the snowy peaks

· No quest markers or map indicators are pointing directly to him

You may notice owl spirits floating around the zone, but these are not reliable indicators of Elder Madox's location. They also appear near other points of interest, including Doryani's Hidden Vault, which can lead to confusion.

Watch for Isolated Checkpoints

One of the best clues that you're close to Elder Madox is a Checkpoint placed in an unusual or isolated location.

In many instances:

·A checkpoint appears in a branching path

·One direction leads to Doryani's Vault

·The other leads to Elder Madox

While this layout is not guaranteed for every player, it's a strong hint worth paying attention to. If you find yourself far from major objectives and encounter a lone checkpoint, fully explore that branch before moving on.

Elder Madox's Unique Item Offer

When you finally speak with Elder Madox, he will open his inventory and allow you to choose exactly one Unique item.

Important Rules

·You can only claim one Unique per character

·The choice is permanent

·You cannot refresh or reroll his inventory

This makes the decision extremely important, especially if you're planning multiple builds or characters.

What Unique Items Can Elder Madox Offer?

There appears to be no strict limit on what Unique items Elder Madox can offer.

Players have reported seeing:

·Common or leveling Uniques like Doomgate or Earthbound

·Highly valuable endgame Uniques such as Headhunter

·Stat-heavy accessories like Astramentis

Because the inventory is random, Elder Madox can potentially offer one of the strongest items in Path of Exile 2 completely for free.

Should You Visit Elder Madox on Every Character?

Absolutely.

Since Elder Madox's offer is once per character, reaching him again with new characters is almost always worth the effort. Even if you don't get a top-tier endgame Unique, a strong leveling item can dramatically speed up progression and reduce the need to buy POE2 Currency early on.

This is especially valuable if:

·You enjoy experimenting with new builds

·You play multiple classes

·You want an easier early-game experience

Best Time to Choose Your Unique

If you're unsure which Unique to take, consider:

·Your current build

·Future builds you plan to play

·Whether the item is useful for leveling or endgame

Sometimes, a powerful leveling Unique is more valuable than a niche endgame item-especially if it helps multiple characters progress faster.

Final Thoughts

Finding the PoE 2 Unique items vendor in the Interlude chapters is one of the most rewarding hidden discoveries in Path of Exile 2. Elder Madox offers something incredibly rare in an ARPG: a free, potentially game-changing Unique item with no strings attached.

If you're progressing through the Vaal Interlude, take the time to fully explore Kriar Peaks. The short detour could reward you with one of the strongest items your character-or future characters-will ever equip.