Mastering Ascendancies in Path of Exile 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Path of Exile 2's Early Access release has players eager to explore the depth of each class. While not technically subclasses, Ascendancies provide unique specializations and potent abilities. This guide details how to unlock and utilize these powerful enhancements.

Unlocking Ascendancies

To unlock Ascendancy Classes, players must first complete a specific Trial of Ascendancy. Currently, the Act 2 Trial of the Sekhemas and the Act 3 Trial of Chaos are available. Completing either trial rewards you with two passive Ascendancy Points and unlocks Ascendancy selection. The earlier Act 2 trial is recommended for quicker access to enhanced abilities.

Available Ascendancies

Currently, Path of Exile 2 features six classes, each with two Ascendancy options. More classes and Ascendancies are planned for future updates.

Mercenary Ascendancies

• Witch Hunter: This Ascendancy focuses on offensive and defensive buffs, enhancing damage output with abilities like Culling Strike and No Mercy. Ideal for players who enjoy debuffing enemies and maximizing damage.

  

• Gemling Legionnaire: This option centers around Skill Gems, allowing for extra skill slots and additional buffs. Offers flexibility for customizing builds.

  

Monk Ascendancies

• Invoker: Embrace elemental powers and inflict status effects. A melee-focused elemental build, perfect for those who prefer close-quarters combat.

  

• Acolyte of Chayula: Harness the power of shadows, utilizing darkness-based abilities for both offense and defense. A unique option for players seeking a shadow-centric playstyle.

  

Ranger Ascendancies

• Deadeye: Enhance ranged combat prowess with increased attack speed, damage, and accuracy. Ideal for players focusing on archer builds.

  

• Pathfinder: Master poison and elemental damage with abilities like Poisonous Concoction and Contagious Contamination. A refreshing alternative to traditional ranged builds.

  

Sorceress Ascendancies

• Stormweaver: Amplify elemental damage and unleash powerful storms. A solid choice for players enjoying elemental magic.

  

• Chronomancer: Manipulate time, controlling cooldowns and altering the flow of battle. A strategic option for dynamic gameplay.

  

Warrior Ascendancies

• Titan: Become an unstoppable force, maximizing damage and defense. Perfect for players who enjoy tanking and dealing massive damage.

  

• Warbringer: Summon Ancestral Spirits and Totems for support and additional damage. A good choice for players who like melee combat with summoned allies.

  

Witch Ascendancies

• Blood Mage: Drain life from enemies to sustain yourself and enhance damage. A unique playstyle focused on life manipulation.

  

• Infernalist: Summon a Hellhound and shapeshift into a powerful demon form, unleashing fiery destruction. A strong elemental damage option with minion support.

  

Path of Exile 2 is currently available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.