The Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing is a special item in the action roleplaying game Path of Exile, used to influence the rewards of Ultimatum encounters. Unlike many scarabs that grant generic bonus content, this scarab ties directly into the game’s Catalysts system. By applying this scarab in a Map Device, players can convert all Ultimatum rewards in that area into catalysts, offering a focused and potentially more profitable farm strategy. Understanding its mechanics, crafting methods, advantages and pitfalls will help you decide whether it fits your gameplay or endgame farming goals.
What Is the Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing?
The Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing is a map fragment scarab that modifies map behavior when used in a Map Device. Its core effect is
- Ultimatum Encounters in the area will only offer **Catalysts** as rewards to the map owner. contentReference[oaicite0]
This means that instead of receiving a mix of items, currency, or other rewards, a player running an Ultimatum event with this scarab will be limited to catalyst rewards, making this scarab valuable for farming catalysts specifically. contentReference[oaicite1]
Scarab Limits and Mechanics
Like other Ultimatum Scarabs, the Catalysing scarab has a few important constraints and behaviors
- **Stack Size** Up to 20 per stack. contentReference[oaicite2]
- **Limit** Only 1 can be used per map device. contentReference[oaicite3]
- **Drop Level** It begins dropping at a character level of 78. contentReference[oaicite4]
How to Acquire the Scarab
There are multiple ways to obtain an Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing
- It can **drop anywhere** in the game, like many other scarab types. contentReference[oaicite5]
- It can be **crafted or traded** via scarab recipe systems for example, from vendor recipes or using multiple random scarabs. contentReference[oaicite6]
Players often use other Ultimatum Scarb recipes to cycle into the Catalysing scarab depending on their farming objectives. contentReference[oaicite7]
Strategic Use and Benefits
The main appeal of the Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing comes from its ability to turn an Ultimatum area into a **catalyst-only rewards zone**. This allows for more predictable farming of catalysts, which players may need for crafting or trade. Some key benefits include
- Targeted Catalyst FarmingBecause the scarab converts all Ultimatum rewards to catalysts, it’s ideal for building up large quantities without relying on random drops. contentReference[oaicite8]
- Synergy with Other ScarabsMany players combine the Catalysing scarab with **Inscription** or **Bribing** scarabs to further manipulate rewards, such as converting catalysts into inscribed Ultimatums. contentReference[oaicite9]
- Controlled Farming StrategyFor players focused on currency or specific catalysts, this scarab offers a refined and repeatable method rather than relying on more variable reward pools.
Community Reports & Experience
In community discussions, mixed feedback emerges around this scarab’s value
- Some players report **significant catalyst gains**, especially when pairing Catalysing with Inscription scarabs for conversion into Inscribed Ultimatums. contentReference[oaicite10]
- Others warn of the **RNG variability**, noting that not all Ultimatum runs yield profitable returns even with the scarab. contentReference[oaicite11]
- There are bug reports around game stability when many catalysts drop, especially with Inscription interactions. contentReference[oaicite12]
Risks and Drawbacks
While powerful, using the Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing isn’t without its potential downsides.
Limited Reward Variety
By forcing rewards to be catalysts only, you lose out on other valuable Ultimatum rewards like unique items, currency, or cards. If your goal is diverse loot rather than just catalysts, this scarab may not align with your farming strategy.
Cost vs Reward Trade-Off
Because scarabs themselves cost currency or effort to obtain, using a high-cost scarab for a farming run must be justified by sufficiently high and consistent catalyst returns. Some players report losses or poor efficiency when the catalyst yield doesn’t offset the scarab’s cost. contentReference[oaicite13]
Game Stability Concerns
A few players have raised concerns about performance issues their game reportedly crashes when many catalysts drop in Ultimatum runs using this scarab. contentReference[oaicite14] While not universally reported, it’s a risk to consider for high-volume farming.
Best Practices When Using the Scarab
To maximize the benefit of the Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing, many players adopt the following strategies
- Combine with Inscription ScarabsUse it with scarabs that convert catalysts into Inscribed Ultimatums to potentially increase reward value. contentReference[oaicite15]
- Optimize Map SetupMake sure your mapping strategy supports the Ultimatum mechanic and that your map tiers align with your scarab’s drop-level and reward expectations.
- Track Your GainsRecord your catalyst drops vs scarab costs over many runs to assess whether the strategy is profitable for you.
- Be Mindful of StabilityIf you notice crashes or performance problems, adjust your loot settings or reduce the volume of catalyst drop rewards to maintain game stability. contentReference[oaicite16]
The Ultimatum Scarab of Catalysing is a highly specialized tool in Path of Exile for players focused on farming catalysts above all else. By limiting Ultimatum rewards to catalysts in a given map, it allows for a more predictable and targeted farming route. While its focused reward pool can be a huge advantage, players must weigh that against the scarab’s cost, potential game instability, and the chance to miss out on other valuable loot. For those with the right goals, combining this scarab with others like Inscription or Bribing can unlock powerful farming strategies. As with any high-risk, high-reward system, success depends on careful planning, consistent execution, and a bit of luck.