Path of Exile 2 boasts incredible depth, offering hundreds of skills and items to craft your perfect character. But once you've mastered the basics, the real challenge begins: choosing your Ascendancy Class! Currently in early access, each class features two (with a third planned for full release), providing diverse and exciting progression paths.
This guide explores all currently available Ascendancies. For optimal starting builds, check out our companion article.
Table of Contents
- Witch Ascendancy Classes
- Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes
- Warrior Ascendancy Classes
- Monk Ascendancy Classes
- Mercenary Ascendancy Classes
- Ranger Ascendancy Classes
Witch Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Infernalist
A top contender! The Infernalist Witch commands devastating fire spells and, for summoner fans, unleashes Infernal Hounds from the underworld. Transform into a demonic beast for increased damage and mobility (at the cost of health). The Loyal Hellhound skill and Beidat's Will node (linking Spirit to maximum HP) are key for survivability, allowing you to command a formidable undead army.
Blood Mage
While not as dominant as the Infernalist, the Blood Mage offers thrilling gameplay. Sanguimancy replaces Mana with Health, creating a high-risk, high-reward playstyle. Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike are crucial for managing this precarious balance.
Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Stormweaver
The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes massive elemental damage, boosted by high critical hit chance and the Elemental Storm triggered by Tempest Caller. Inflicting status ailments is key, enhanced by Strike Twice and Spirit Gems. Constant Gale and Force of Will improve spellcasting speed and mana regeneration. Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield, bolstering survivability.
Chronomancer
A unique addition to PoE2, the Chronomancer manipulates time. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze open up exciting combat possibilities. While not currently the strongest, its potential is high. Now and Again avoids cooldowns, Apex of the Moment slows enemies, and Quicksand Hourglass speeds spellcasting.
Warrior Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Warbringer
The Warbringer combines 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 boost defensive capabilities.
Titan
For a defensive approach, the Titan paralyzes enemies with powerful, slow attacks. Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage enhance survivability. Earthbreaker and Ancestral Empowerment strengthen Slam abilities, while Surprising Strength boosts damage against stunned foes.
Monk Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Invoker
The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power for melee combat, using elemental damage and status effects. Power Charges enhance skills, adding strategic depth.
Acolyte of Chayula
This Monk embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for increased Darkness and survivability. Consuming Questions and Mana Leech enhance defenses, but currently suffers from inefficient mana drain.
Mercenary Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Witchhunter
A top-tier class, the Witchhunter excels at eliminating demons and undead. Increased damage on first and last hits clears weaker enemies, while Pitiless Killer, Damage vs Low Life Enemies, and Judge, Jury, and Executioner are crucial against bosses. Witchbane, No Mercy, and Zealous Inquisition enhance damage and create explosive effects.
Gemling Legionnaire
Gameplay centers around gems—their stats, quality, and color. Thaumaturgical Infusion boosts resistances, Crystalline Potential and Implanted Gems enhance skill levels. Advanced Thaumaturgy reduces skill costs and attribute requirements, while Integrated Efficiency adds three extra skill slots. Gem Studded allows using two identical Support gems.
Ranger Ascendancy Classes in PoE2
Deadeye
For ranged combat fans, the Deadeye enhances attack range and damage. Endless Munitions adds projectiles, ideal for clearing enemies. This is excellent for bow users focusing on elemental damage.
Pathfinder
A master of poison, the Pathfinder deals double-effective poison damage. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application but shortens duration. The gas grenade, combined with speed and slow resistance, creates a toxic battlefield.
This guide covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes in PoE2's early access. Further classes and potential skill changes are expected in future updates.
