Path of Exile 2: A Deep Dive into the Ascendancy Classes
Path of Exile 2 offers unparalleled character customization, allowing players to tailor their builds using hundreds of skills and items. However, the choice of Ascendancy Class adds another layer of strategic depth. 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
- Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
- Warrior Ascendancy Classes
- Monk Ascendancy Classes
- Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
- Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Witch Ascendancy Classes
Infernalist
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, albeit 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 and maximizing the undead army.
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Blood Mage
While not as universally strong as 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 help mitigate the risk.
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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
Stormweaver
The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes elemental chaos, maximizing critical hits and triggering Elemental Storm with Tempest Caller. Inflicting status ailments is key, amplified by Strike Twice and Spirit Gems. Constant Gale and Force of Will enhance spellcasting speed and mana regeneration. Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield, bolstering survivability.
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Chronomancer
A unique addition to PoE2, the Chronomancer manipulates time, offering innovative combat strategies. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze open up exciting possibilities. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is high. Now and Again, Apex of the Moment, and Quicksand Hourglass are key passive skills.
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Warrior Ascendancy Classes
Warbringer
The Warbringer utilizes war cries and totems for devastating melee combat, even against bosses. Imploding Impacts and Anvil’s Weight enhance armor penetration. Warcaller’s Bellow and Greatwolf’s Howl manage warcry cooldowns. Renly’s Training and Turtle Charm boost defensive capabilities.
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Titan
For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies, forcing them to overcome formidable armor. Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage enhance survivability. Earthbreaker and Ancestral Empowerment strengthen Slam abilities, while Surprising Strength boosts damage against stunned foes.
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Monk Ascendancy Classes
Invoker
The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power for powerful abilities and status effects. This melee class utilizes elemental damage and status effects, leveraging Power Charges to enhance skills.
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Acolyte of Chayula
The Acolyte of Chayula embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for Darkness, granting exceptional survivability. Consuming Questions combined with Mana Leech enhances defenses but currently suffers from inefficient mana drain.
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Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
Witchhunter
A top contender, the Witchhunter excels at eliminating demons and undead. Increased damage on first and last hits facilitates efficient clearing. Pitiless Killer, Damage vs Low Life Enemies, and Judge, Jury, and Executioner are vital against bosses. Witchbane, No Mercy, and Zealous Inquisition further enhance its effectiveness.
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Gemling Legionnaire
The Gemling Legionnaire’s gameplay centers around gems, utilizing their stats, quality, and color. Thaumaturgical Infusion, Crystalline Potential, Implanted Gems, Advanced Thaumaturgy, Adaptive Capability, Integrated Efficiency, and Gem Studded offer diverse build options.
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Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Deadeye
The Deadeye Ranger focuses on ranged combat, enhancing 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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Pathfinder
The Pathfinder specializes in poison, dealing double damage. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application but shortens duration. Combining gas grenades with high movement speed and slow resistance allows for effective area control.
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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 will be added in future updates.