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 features two progression paths, with a third planned for the full release. Let's explore the existing Ascendancies!
Read 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 wields devastating fire spells and summons Infernal Hounds. Transforming into a demonic form boosts damage and mobility at the cost of increased health consumption. Key passives like Beidat's Will (linking Spirit to maximum HP) and Loyal Hellhound are crucial for survivability.
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Blood Mage
While not as universally strong as the Infernalist, the Blood Mage offers a unique and engaging experience. Sanguimancy replaces mana with health, demanding careful resource management. Passives like Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike help mitigate the risk.
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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
Stormweaver
The Stormweaver unleashes elemental chaos, specializing in high critical strike chance and triggering Elemental Storm. Status ailments are key, amplified by Spirit Gems and the Strike Twice passive. Constant Gale and Force of Will enhance spellcasting speed and mana regeneration. Heart of the Storm offers survivability by converting elemental damage to energy shield.
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Chronomancer
A new addition to PoE, the Chronomancer manipulates time. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze open up unique combat strategies. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is high. Passives like Now and Again, Apex of the Moment, and Quicksand Hourglass provide time-bending advantages.
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Warrior Ascendancy Classes
Warbringer
The Warbringer combines war cries and totems for devastating melee combat. Imploding Impacts and Anvil’s Weight enhance armor penetration. Warcaller’s Bellow and Greatwolf’s Howl manipulate warcry cooldowns. Renly’s Training and Turtle Charm offer defensive options.
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Titan
For a defensive, control-oriented approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies. Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage boost defenses and health. Earthbreaker and Ancestral Empowerment strengthen slam abilities, while Surprising Strength increases damage against stunned foes.
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Monk Ascendancy Classes
Invoker
The Invoker harnesses elemental power for potent melee attacks and status effects. Power Charges enhance skills, providing strategic depth.
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Acolyte of Chayula
The Acolyte of Chayula embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for increased Darkness and survivability. Consuming Questions and Mana Leech offer defensive potential, but current limitations make it less effective than the Invoker.
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Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
Witchhunter
A powerful class, the Witchhunter excels at eliminating demons and undead. Increased damage on first and last hits, combined with passives like Pitiless Killer and Judge, Jury, and Executioner, makes it effective against both weaker enemies and bosses. Witchbane and No Mercy further enhance damage output.
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Gemling Legionnaire
The Gemling Legionnaire's gameplay centers around gems. Thaumaturgical Infusion links resistances to gem colors, while Crystalline Potential and Implanted Gems enhance skill levels. Integrated Efficiency adds three extra skill slots, and Gem Studded allows using two identical support gems.
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Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Deadeye
The Deadeye is a ranged combat specialist. Passives increase range and damage. Endless Munitions adds extra projectiles. Ideal for bow users focusing on elemental damage.
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Pathfinder
The Pathfinder masters poison, dealing double damage. Overwhelming Toxicity increases poison application but shortens duration. Utilizes gas grenades for area-of-effect poison damage.
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Note: This guide covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes. Future updates may alter passive skills and balance.
