Path of Exile 2: A Deep Dive into the Ascendancy Classes
Path of Exile 2 offers unparalleled character customization with hundreds of skills and items. But the real challenge begins with choosing an Ascendancy Class! Currently in early access, each class boasts two progression paths (with a third planned for full release). Let's explore the current Ascendancy options.
(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. The Loyal Hellhound skill and Beidat's Will node (linking Spirit to maximum HP) are crucial for survivability and maximizing undead army potential.
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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 are key skills for mitigating this risk.
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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
Stormweaver
The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes elemental devastation, particularly through high critical hit chances and the Elemental Storm triggered by Tempest Caller. Inflicting status ailments is key, aided by Strike Twice. Spirit Gems amplify elemental damage against afflicted enemies. Constant Gale and Force of Will are essential for spellcasting speed and mana regeneration. Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield, enhancing survivability.
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Chronomancer
A unique addition to PoE2, the Chronomancer manipulates time, creating innovative combat strategies. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze offer exciting combo potential. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is high. Key skills include Now and Again (chance to avoid cooldowns), Apex of the Moment (slows nearby monsters), and Quicksand Hourglass (increases spell casting speed).
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Warrior Ascendancy Classes
Warbringer
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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Titan
For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies, forcing them to overcome substantial armor. Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage significantly enhance survivability. Offensive abilities like Earthbreaker, Ancestral Empowerment, and Surprising Strength (increased damage against stunned enemies) ensure the Titan is far from defenseless.
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Monk Ascendancy Classes
Invoker
The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power for potent melee combat and status effects. Power Charges further enhance skills.
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Acolyte of Chayula
This Monk embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for increased Darkness and survivability (Embrace the Darkness). Consuming Questions combined with Mana Leech offers further defensive options, though currently limited by mana drain efficiency.
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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, makes it effective against both weaker enemies and bosses. Witchbane, No Mercy, and Zealous Inquisition (chance for enemy explosions) define its playstyle.
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Gemling Legionnaire
This unique class centers around gems, utilizing their color and quantity to enhance resistances (Thaumaturgical Infusion), skill levels (Crystalline Potential and Implanted Gems), and reduce costs/requirements (Advanced Thaumaturgy and Adaptive Capability). Integrated Efficiency adds three extra active skill slots, while Gem Studded allows for two identical Support gems.
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Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Deadeye
A ranged combat specialist, the Deadeye enhances attack range and damage output. Endless Munitions adds an extra projectile per skill use. Ideal for bow users focusing on elemental damage.
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Pathfinder
The Pathfinder masterfully utilizes poison, dealing double damage. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application but shortens duration. Gas grenades, high movement speed, and slow resistance create a unique and effective playstyle.
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This overview covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes in PoE2's early access. Expect more classes and potential skill adjustments in future updates.
