Path of Exile 2 boasts incredible depth, letting you craft a unique character using hundreds of skills and items. But once you've mastered the basics, you'll face a crucial decision: choosing your Ascendancy Class! Currently in early access, each class offers two progression paths (with a third planned for full release). Let's explore the available Ascendancies.

For tips on choosing the best starting build, check out our related 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

Currently a top contender, the Infernalist Witch commands devastating fire spells. Summoning fans will appreciate the Infernal Hound, a fiery companion straight from the underworld. Transform into a demonic form for increased damage and mobility (at the cost of increased health vulnerability). The Loyal Hellhound skill and Beidat's Will node (linking Spirit to maximum HP) are key to maximizing this build's potential, allowing you to command a formidable undead army.

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. Skills like Vitality Siphon, Life Remnants, Sunder the Flesh, and Gore Spike are crucial for survival and maximizing damage.

Sorcerer Ascendancy Classes in PoE2

Stormweaver

The Stormweaver Sorcerer unleashes devastating elemental damage with high critical hit potential, triggering Elemental Storm via Tempest Caller. Inflicting status ailments is key, enhanced by Strike Twice. Spirit Gems amplify damage against afflicted enemies. Constant Gale and Force of Will boost spell casting 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 itself. Spells like Temporal Rift and Time Freeze offer exciting combat possibilities. While not currently the strongest Sorcerer Ascendancy, its potential is considerable. Now and Again avoids cooldowns, Apex of the Moment slows enemies, and Quicksand Hourglass boosts spell casting speed.

Warrior Ascendancy Classes in PoE2

Warbringer

The Warbringer combines war cries with totem summons for brutal melee combat. Totems distract enemies and absorb damage, making this build effective against bosses. Imploding Impacts and Anvil’s Weight enhance armor penetration. Warcaller’s Bellow and Greatwolf’s Howl manipulate war cry cooldowns. Renly’s Training and Turtle Charm offer defensive options.

Titan

For a more controlled, defensive approach, the Titan excels. Slow, powerful attacks paralyze enemies. Stone Skin boosts armor, Mysterious Lineage increases maximum HP. Earthbreaker and Ancestral Empowerment enhance Slam abilities, while Surprising Strength increases damage against stunned foes.

Monk Ascendancy Classes in PoE2

Invoker

The Invoker Monk harnesses elemental power for devastating melee attacks and status effects. Power Charges enhance skills.

Acolyte of Chayula

This Monk embraces darkness, forgoing Spirit for increased Darkness and survivability. Consuming Questions and Mana Leech offer defensive options, though currently less efficient due to Energy Shield cooldown mechanics.

Mercenary Ascendancy Classes in PoE2

Witchhunter

A powerful class, the Witchhunter excels at eliminating demons and the 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 further enhance its capabilities.

Gemling Legionnaire

Gameplay centers around gems, their stats, and colors. Thaumaturgical Infusion increases resistances, Crystalline Potential and Implanted Gems enhance skill levels. Advanced Thaumaturgy reduces skill costs and attribute requirements. Integrated Efficiency adds three skill slots, and Gem Studded allows for two identical support gems.

Ranger Ascendancy Classes in PoE2

Deadeye

A ranged combat specialist, the Deadeye boasts increased range and damage. Endless Munitions adds projectiles, making it ideal for clearing large groups. Excellent for bow users focusing on elemental damage.

Pathfinder

Pathfinder masters poison, dealing double damage with this effect. Overwhelming Toxicity doubles poison application, but shortens duration. Combined with gas grenades and high movement speed, this build excels at area denial.

Note: This guide covers twelve of the planned thirty-six Ascendancy Classes in PoE2 early access. Future updates may alter passive skills and add further classes.