Path of Exile 2: A Deep Dive into the Ascendancy Classes
Path of Exile 2 offers a staggering level of character customization, allowing players to tailor their builds using hundreds of skills and items. However, the true depth of character development lies in choosing an Ascendancy Class. Currently in early access, each class boasts two progression paths, with a third planned for the full release. Let's explore the available Ascendancies!
(See also: our guide on choosing the best starting build.)
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Table of Contents:
Witch Ascendancy Classes
A top-tier choice! The Infernalist Witch commands devastating fire spells and summons the Infernal Hound from the underworld. Transforming into a demonic form boosts damage and mobility at the cost of increased health consumption. The Loyal Hellhound skill and Beidat's Will node (linking Spirit to maximum HP) are crucial for survivability.
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While less balanced than the Infernalist, the Blood Mage offers a thrilling, high-risk, high-reward playstyle. Sanguimancy replaces mana with health, demanding careful resource management. Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike are key skills for mitigating the inherent risks.
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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes elemental chaos, dealing massive damage with high critical hit chances and triggering Elemental Storm. The Stormweaver excels at inflicting status ailments, amplified by Spirit Gems. Constant Gale and Force of Will improve spellcasting speed and mana regeneration. Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield, enhancing survivability.
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A unique addition to PoE2, the Chronomancer manipulates time, offering innovative combat strategies. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze open exciting possibilities. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is high. Key skills include Now and Again, Apex of the Moment, and Quicksand Hourglass.
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Warrior Ascendancy Classes
The Warbringer utilizes war cries and totems for devastating melee combat, effective even against bosses. Imploding Impacts and Anvil's Weight enhance armor penetration. Warcaller's Bellow and Greatwolf's Howl manage war cry cooldowns. Renly's Training and Turtle Charm bolster defensive capabilities.
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For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies, while Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage enhance survivability. Earthbreaker and Ancestral Empowerment strengthen Slam abilities, and Surprising Strength boosts damage against stunned foes.
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Monk Ascendancy Classes
The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power, using melee attacks and status effects. Power Charges enhance skills, adding strategic depth.
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The Acolyte of Chayula embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for Darkness. Embrace the Darkness increases maximum Darkness and enhances survivability. Consuming Questions combined with Mana Leech provides defense, but currently suffers from inefficiency.
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Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
Currently one of the strongest classes, the Witchhunter excels at eliminating demons and undead. Increased damage on first and last hits facilitates rapid clearing. Pitiless Killer, Damage vs Low Life Enemies, and Judge, Jury, and Executioner are crucial against bosses. Witchbane and No Mercy reduce enemy concentration and boost damage.
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The Gemling Legionnaire's gameplay centers around gems, utilizing their stats, quality, and color. Thaumaturgical Infusion increases resistances based on gem color. Crystalline Potential and Implanted Gems enhance skill levels. Integrated Efficiency adds three extra skill slots.
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Ranger Ascendancy Classes
The Deadeye Ranger is a ranged combat specialist, increasing attack range and damage. Endless Munitions adds projectiles, ideal for clearing large groups. This class is excellent for bow users focusing on elemental damage.
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The Pathfinder masterfully utilizes poison, dealing double damage. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application but shortens duration. Gas grenades, combined with high movement speed and slow resistance, create a potent area-of-effect attack.
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Note: This guide covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes available in PoE2's early access. Further classes and potential skill adjustments are expected in future updates.