Path of Exile 2 Class Guide

Path of Exile 2 introduces exciting new mechanics, revamped systems, and improved visuals, making it a perfect opportunity for both newcomers and veterans to explore Wraeclast. A critical decision for any player is selecting a class, as it defines your initial stats, playstyle, and progression through Ascendancies.

This guide will help you understand the key differences between the classes in Path of Exile 2 and provide tips on choosing the right one for your playstyle.

Overview of Classes in Path of Exile 2

POE 2 offers seven core classes, each aligned with one or more of the game's three attributes: Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence. Each class begins with unique stats and access to distinct skill gem setups and Ascendancy classes.

Strength-Based Classes

• Marauder: Known for durability and melee combat, the Marauder is ideal for tanky builds and physical damage.
• Templar: Combines Strength and Intelligence, making it a versatile hybrid for melee, spellcasting, and support roles.

Dexterity-Based Classes

• Ranger: Specializes in ranged attacks and mobility, perfect for bow or projectile-based builds.
• Duelist: Blends Dexterity and Strength for quick melee attacks and evasion-based playstyles.

Intelligence-Based Classes

• Witch: The epitome of spellcasters, focusing on elemental, chaos, or minion builds.
• Shadow: A Dexterity and Intelligence hybrid, excelling in traps, mines, and critical strikes.

Balanced Class

• Scion: A unique class that starts at the center of the passive skill tree, offering ultimate flexibility but requiring deep game knowledge to optimize.

Choosing the Right Class for Your Playstyle

1. Playstyle Preference

Your preferred combat style can guide your choice:

• Close Combat: If you enjoy smashing enemies up close, the Marauder or Duelist are great picks.
• Ranged Combat: Opt for the Ranger for precise ranged attacks or the Shadow for creative trap and projectile builds.
• Magic & Spells: The Witch or Templar offers a variety of spellcasting options.
• Hybrid Playstyles: The Templar and Scion are versatile choices for mixing melee and spells.

2. Beginner-Friendly Classes

If you're new to Path of Exile, consider classes with straightforward mechanics:

• Marauder: Its tanky nature and simple playstyle make it forgiving for new players.
• Ranger: Easy to understand and rewarding for those who prefer hit-and-run tactics.

3. Advanced Classes for Experts

For experienced players, the Scion and Shadow provide complex mechanics and high customization potential.

Understanding Ascendancy Classes

Ascendancies are subclasses unlocked during the campaign that further specialize your character. Each class has multiple Ascendancy options, allowing you to tailor your build to a specific role or playstyle.

Examples of Ascendancy Classes

• Marauder: Juggernaut (tank), Berserker (damage-focused), Chieftain (fire and totem synergy).
• Ranger: Deadeye (projectile mastery), Pathfinder (flask utility), Raider (speed and evasion).
• Witch: Necromancer (minions), Elementalist (elemental damage), Occultist (chaos and curses).

Tips for Building Your Class

1. Understand the Passive Skill Tree
   Each class starts in a unique location on the skill tree, with nodes that align with its attributes. Plan your build based on the skills and abilities you want to prioritize.

2. Choose Skills Wisely
   Skill gems define your abilities. Ensure they match your class’s strengths and are supported by proper gear and support gems.

3. Gear Optimization
   Look for gear that boosts your core stats and synergizes with your chosen skills and playstyle.

4. Adapt to League Mechanics
   Each league introduces unique challenges and rewards. Adapt your build to take full advantage of the current league’s mechanics.

Recommended Starter Builds

Marauder: Earthshatter Slam Build

• Playstyle: Focuses on massive AoE damage with slams and high survivability.
• Skill Gems: Earthshatter, Leap Slam, Enduring Cry.
• Key Passive Skills: Life, armor, and attack damage nodes.

Ranger: Toxic Rain Build

• Playstyle: A ranged build focusing on chaos damage over time.
• Skill Gems: Toxic Rain, Withering Step, Dash.
• Key Passive Skills: Chaos damage, bow attack speed, evasion.

Witch: Summoner Build

• Playstyle: Relies on raising an army of minions to deal damage.
• Skill Gems: Raise Zombie, Summon Skeletons, Carrion Golem.
• Key Passive Skills: Minion damage, life, and resistances.

Choosing a class in Path of Exile 2 is a crucial step that shapes your journey through Wraeclast. Whether you prefer smashing foes with raw strength, outmaneuvering them with precision, or casting devastating spells, there’s a class and build to match your style.

Experiment, explore, and embrace the depth of POE 2’s class system to carve your path to greatness!