PoE 2 Kulemak's Invitation Guide - How to Get, Use, and Unlock Abyssal Lich

If you’ve been diving into the endgame systems of Path of Exile 2, you’ve probably heard whispers of Kulemak’s Invitation. This isn’t just another map item; it’s a key to one of the most unique encounters in PoE 2 and a gateway to unlocking the Abyssal Lich Ascendancy Class. For summoner fans and players who love experimenting with new ascendancies, this item is a game-changer.

Before we break down farming spots, strategies, and the Vessel of Kulemak fight, here’s a quick veteran tip: if you’re gearing up and short on resources, sites like PVPBank are reliable places where you can buy PoE 2 currency safely. Having the right orbs on hand makes preparing for the fight way smoother, especially since the modifiers on this boss can punish undergeared characters.

What is Kulemak’s Invitation in PoE 2?

Kulemak’s Invitation is a rare Abyssal Key item that drops in special Abyssal Cities during the Abyssal League content. Unlike normal keys or maps, it has a direct purpose:

• Grants access to the Black Cathedral, where you’ll face the Vessel of Kulemak.

• Completing this encounter unlocks the path toward the Abyssal Lich Ascendancy Class.

• It ties heavily into the lore of the Abyss — with Kulemak being one of the ancient abyssal beings.

The item itself feels like a rite of passage. If you’ve played long enough, you know GGG loves giving ascendancy unlocks tied to skill-check boss fights, and Kulemak is exactly that.

How to Get Kulemak’s Invitation

Unlike random map drops, farming this item requires patience and some strategy.

1. Explore Abyssal Cities

   • These special zones spawn within Abyssal maps. They often appear deeper within map chains, so you’ll need to push your atlas.

   • Inside, you’ll encounter stronger-than-average mobs and mini-bosses.

2. Defeat Abyssal Commanders

   • Abyssal Commanders are the gatekeepers here. They have a chance to drop Kulemak’s Invitation.

   • They’re much tankier than regular rares and often spawn adds, so prepare for long fights.

3. Loot Safely

   • Veteran tip: if you die and leave the zone before picking up the Invitation, you risk losing it. Always clear the area carefully before looting.

4. Trade as a Backup

   • While farming is fun, remember the economy exists. Many players sell Kulemak’s Invitation. If RNG hates you, buying it can be more time-efficient.

The Vessel of Kulemak Boss Fight

Once you’ve got your Invitation, it’s time for the real challenge: the Vessel of Kulemak. This is not a casual fight — it’s a multi-phase boss battle that tests both your build and your resource management.

Fight Overview

• Three-Phase Encounter – The Vessel revives multiple times (up to four). Each revival makes the fight progressively harder.

• Randomized Modifiers – Every revival, the Vessel gains new buffs like faster attacks, spawning extra minions, or unleashing different damage types.

• High Physical & Cold Damage – Expect heavy hits that punish poor defenses.

Mechanics to Watch

• Ground Effects – Persistent AoEs and spikes can drain your flask charges if you’re careless.

• Revival Buffs – Pay close attention to which modifiers are added each phase, and adjust positioning accordingly.

• Return the Finger Option – At the final stage, you’ll be given the option to end the Vessel permanently, granting you the path to the Abyssal Lich Ascendancy.

Pro Tips

• Bring Auto-Charge Flasks – Flask charge generation is almost mandatory for the long duration.

• Mobility is King – Skills like Dash, Blink Arrow, or Flame Dash are essential to avoid overlapping AoEs.

• Overcap Resistances – Cold damage spikes can one-shot you if your resists are low.

Rewards from Kulemak’s Invitation

Defeating the Vessel of Kulemak isn’t just about bragging rights. Here’s what you gain:

• Ascendancy Unlock – The Abyssal Lich class, ideal for minion and summoner builds.

• Quest Progression – Tied to deeper Abyssal storylines in PoE 2.

• Loot Table – Unique abyssal-themed items, currency drops, and high-level crafting bases.

While the loot is solid, the real treasure here is unlocking the Abyssal Lich, which completely changes your gameplay options.

Why the Abyssal Lich Ascendancy is Worth It

The Abyssal Lich stands out among PoE 2 ascendancies for its minion-centric mechanics and abyssal flavor. If you love controlling hordes of undead or pushing summoner DPS to the max, this class delivers.

• Summoner Power Boost – Enhanced Spectres and improved minion durability.

• Sustain Tools – Life and Energy Shield recovery tied to minion kills.

• Unique Playstyle – Abyssal mechanics tie your survivability directly to your army, rewarding active summoning.

Veterans often compare it to a mix of Necromancer from PoE 1 and new abyssal twists — giving old-school summoner fans a fresh toybox.

Farming and Preparation Strategies

If you’re planning to farm multiple Invitations or help guildmates unlock theirs, efficiency matters:

1. Group Play – Split farming with friends increases your chances, and coordinated parties can melt Abyssal Commanders faster.

2. Loot Filter Tweaks – Make sure Kulemak’s Invitation is highlighted brightly. Missing it due to loot clutter would be tragic.

3. Sustain Currency – Crafting strong gear for the fight drains resources. Consider farming earlier Abyssal maps for currency before pushing invitations.

4. Practice on Lower Abyssal Bosses – Get used to the mechanics by fighting mini-bosses before attempting the Vessel.

Kulemak’s Invitation is more than just another rare drop — it’s a milestone in Path of Exile 2 that marks your entry into higher-tier endgame systems. Unlocking the Abyssal Lich is one of the most rewarding experiences right now, especially if you’re into summoner or minion-heavy playstyles.

It may take grinding, preparation, and possibly a few failed attempts, but the fight itself is some of the best content PoE 2 has to offer. Once you finally put the Vessel down for good, you’ll know you’ve earned your place among the Abyss.