Path of Exile 2: A Deep Dive into 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 features two progression paths (with a third planned for full release). Let's explore the existing Ascendancies!
(See also: Our guide on choosing the best starting build.)
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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, though at the cost of increased health vulnerability. Skills like Loyal Hellhound and Beidat's Will (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. Skills like Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike help offset the inherent risk.
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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
Stormweaver
The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes elemental chaos, specializing in high critical hit chance and triggering Elemental Storm. Status ailments are key, boosted by Strike Twice and Spirit Gems. Constant Gale and Force of Will enhance spellcasting speed and mana regeneration, while Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield for improved 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 enable creative combos. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is significant. Key skills include Now and Again, Apex of the Moment, and Quicksand Hourglass.
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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, while Warcaller’s Bellow and Greatwolf’s Howl manage war cry cooldowns. Renly’s Training and Turtle Charm bolster defensive capabilities.
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Titan
For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies, while Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage enhance survivability. Offensive capabilities include Earthbreaker, Ancestral Empowerment, and Surprising Strength.
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Monk Ascendancy Classes
Invoker
The Invoker Monk wields elemental power, combining melee combat with status effects and Power Charges.
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Acolyte of Chayula
This Monk embraces darkness, foregoing Spirit for Darkness and enhanced survivability. Consuming Questions and Mana Leech synergize but currently suffer from inefficient mana drain.
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Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
Witchhunter
A powerful class excelling at eliminating demons and undead. Increased damage on first and last hits, combined with Pitiless Killer, Damage vs Low Life Enemies, and Judge, Jury, and Executioner, make it effective against various enemy types. Witchbane, No Mercy, and Zealous Inquisition further enhance its effectiveness.
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Gemling Legionnaire
Gameplay revolves around gems, their colors, and stats. Thaumaturgical Infusion, Crystalline Potential, Implanted Gems, Advanced Thaumaturgy, Adaptive Capability, Integrated Efficiency, and Gem Studded offer unique build possibilities.
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Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Deadeye
A ranged combat specialist, enhancing attack range and damage. Endless Munitions adds projectiles, ideal for clearing enemies. Excellent for bow users focusing on elemental damage.
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Pathfinder
A poison master, doubling poison effectiveness. Overwhelming Toxicity increases poison application but shortens duration. Utilizes gas grenades for area-of-effect poison damage.
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This overview covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes in PoE2's early access. Future updates will add more classes and may adjust passive skills.