Path of Exile 2 Ascendancy Classes: A Comprehensive Guide
Path of Exile 2 is currently in Early Access, but players are already exploring the depth of its character customization. While not technically subclasses, Ascendancies provide unique abilities and specializations for each of the six currently available base classes. This guide details how to unlock and utilize these powerful options.
Unlocking Ascendancies in PoE 2
To unlock Ascendancy Classes, players must first complete a Trial of Ascendancy. In the Early Access version, players can choose between the Act 2 Trial of the Sekhemas or the Act 3 Trial of Chaos. Completing either trial for the first time unlocks Ascendancy selection and rewards you with 2 passive Ascendancy Points. The earlier Act 2 trial is recommended for quicker access to enhanced abilities.
All Path of Exile 2 Ascendancy Classes (Early Access)
Currently, Path of Exile 2 Early Access features six base classes, each with two Ascendancy choices. More classes and Ascendancies are expected in the full release.
Mercenary Ascendancies
The Mercenary class offers two distinct Ascendancy paths:
Witch Hunter: This Ascendancy focuses on offensive and defensive buffs, enhancing damage output and battlefield control. Key skills include Culling Strike and No Mercy, making it ideal for players who enjoy debuffing enemies and maximizing damage.
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Gemling Legionnaire: This option centers around Skill Gems, allowing for additional skills and buffs. Its flexibility provides customization options for players who want to experiment with diverse skill combinations.
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Monk Ascendancies
The Monk class presents these Ascendancy choices:
Invoker: Embrace elemental powers and inflict status ailments with this Ascendancy. It's a strong melee option for players who enjoy elemental combat.
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Acolyte of Chayula: Harness the power of shadows, combining defensive and healing skills with reality-warping abilities to boost damage. This is a unique, shadow-focused option.
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Ranger Ascendancies
Rangers can choose between these Ascendancy paths:
Deadeye: Enhance ranged combat prowess with increased attack speed, movement speed, and damage. Skills like Eagle Eyes and Called Shots further amplify its effectiveness for archers.
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Pathfinder: Master poison and elemental damage with abilities like Poisonous Concoction and Contagious Contamination, offering a unique alternative to traditional bow-and-arrow builds.
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Sorceress Ascendancies
The Sorceress class features these Ascendancy options:
Stormweaver: Amplify elemental abilities, adding an Elemental Storm and boosting damage across various elements. A solid choice for players who enjoy elemental spellcasting.
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Chronomancer: Manipulate time, influencing cooldown times and adding strategic depth to combat. This is a dynamic option for players seeking unique gameplay.
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Warrior Ascendancies
Warriors have these Ascendancy choices:
Titan: Maximize damage and tankiness with defensive skills like Stone Skin and offensive enhancements such as Crushing Impacts and Surprising Strength. Ideal for players who enjoy a heavy-hitting tank role.
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Warbringer: Summon Ancestral Spirits and Totems to provide additional damage and soak up enemy attacks. A good option for melee players who prefer added support.
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Witch Ascendancies
The Witch class offers the following Ascendancies:
Blood Mage: Drain enemy life to restore your own, while also enhancing damage from lingering wounds and curse duration. This is a compelling choice for those who want to control the flow of life itself.
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Infernalist: Summon a Hellhound and shapeshift into a powerful demon form, unleashing devastating fire damage. A strong option for players who enjoy elemental damage and minion allies.
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Path of Exile 2 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.