Path of Exile 2: Unveiling All Ascendancies

Path of Exile 2: A Deep Dive into the Ascendancy Classes

Path of Exile 2 offers immense character customization, allowing players to tailor their builds using hundreds of skills and items. But the true depth lies in choosing an Ascendancy Class, which significantly shapes your character's playstyle. Currently in early access, each class features two (with a planned three at full release) distinct progression paths. 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, but 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 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 experience. Sanguimancy replaces mana with health, demanding careful resource management. Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike are key skills for survival and maximizing damage.

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Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes

Stormweaver

The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes elemental devastation with high critical hit chances, triggering Elemental Storm via Tempest Caller. Inflicting status ailments is key, enhanced by Strike Twice. Spirit Gems amplify elemental damage against afflicted enemies. Constant Gale and Force of Will improve spell casting speed and mana regeneration, while Heart of the Storm converts Elemental Damage to Energy Shield for survivability.

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Chronomancer

A unique addition to PoE2, the Chronomancer manipulates time, offering innovative combat options through spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its time-bending abilities (Now and Again, Apex of the Moment, Quicksand Hourglass) provide significant potential.

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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, while Renly's Training and Turtle Charm bolster defenses.

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Titan

For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan utilizes powerful, slow attacks to paralyze enemies. Stone Skin and Mysterious Lineage enhance survivability, while Earthbreaker, Ancestral Empowerment, and Surprising Strength boost damage output against stunned foes.

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Monk Ascendancy Classes

Invoker

The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power and status effects for melee combat. Power Charges enhance skills, adding strategic depth.

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Acolyte of Chayula

This Monk embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for Darkness, boosting survivability. Consuming Questions and Mana Leech further enhance defenses, though currently hampered by inefficient mana drain.

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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 Pitiless Killer, Damage vs Low Life Enemies, and Judge, Jury, and Executioner, makes it effective against both groups and bosses. Witchbane, No Mercy, and Zealous Inquisition further enhance its capabilities.

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Gemling Legionnaire

This unique class 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 and strategic depth.

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Ranger Ascendancy Classes

Deadeye

The Deadeye Ranger excels in ranged combat, boosting attack range and damage. Endless Munitions adds projectiles, ideal for clearing large groups. It's a strong choice for bow users focusing on elemental damage.

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Pathfinder

A master of poison, the Pathfinder inflicts devastating poison damage with double effectiveness. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application but shortens duration. Gas grenades, high movement speed, and slow resistance allow for efficient area control.

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Note: This guide covers the twelve currently available Ascendancy Classes in PoE2's early access. More will be added, and balance changes may affect the details presented here.