Path of Exile 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the hit action RPG Path of Exile, and it builds upon its predecessor's core mechanics while introducing fresh content and changes. One of the most exciting and complex aspects of Path of Exile (PoE) is the Ascendancy system, which offers players the ability to specialize their character into powerful new classes, unlocking unique skills and boosts.
In Path of Exile 2, while we're still waiting for the full release and some of the final details to be fleshed out, we can expect Ascendancy to remain a key mechanic. As such, learning how Ascendancy works and how to ascend your character will be critical to Poe 2 trade unlocking your full potential in the game.
In this guide, we'll walk you through how Ascendancy works in Path of Exile 2, including how to unlock your Ascendancy class, what to consider when selecting an Ascendancy, and tips to make the most of your new powers.
Understanding Ascendancy in Path of Exile 2
In Path of Exile, Ascendancy is a system that allows your character to gain additional power through a set of passive skill trees that are specific to each class. The mechanic allows players to specialize their builds even further, making them more powerful, flexible, and capable of tackling higher levels of difficulty.
Path of Exile 2 retains this feature and enhances it with new Ascendancy classes, more powerful options, and possibly additional mechanics tied to the game's changes.
While the full details for Path of Exile 2 are still to be revealed, we can assume that the basic structure will remain somewhat similar to the current Ascendancy system, with a few notable updates.
How to Unlock Your Ascendancy in Path of Exile 2
In Path of Exile, Ascendancy is unlocked once you reach Act 3 and complete the Labyrinth – a special dungeon that acts as a rite of passage for your character to ascend to a new class. Once you've entered the Labyrinth, you need to defeat the Labyrinth boss, and then you're granted access to the Ascendancy passive tree. This is where you can pick your Ascendancy class based on the class you started with and the build you want to create.
In Path of Exile 2, while the specific details of how the Ascendancy will be unlocked may change, we can anticipate similar challenges and story-driven requirements. Here's a basic breakdown of what to expect based on the existing system:
Reach a Certain Act (or Chapter) in the Campaign: Like in Path of Exile, expect to need to progress through the story until a certain point where you will unlock the ability to enter a special zone, likely a Labyrinth or similar dungeon.
Complete the Labyrinth (or Equivalent): The Ascendancy will likely require you to complete a difficult dungeon or series of encounters, testing your combat skills and ability to deal with powerful enemies.
Choose Your Ascendancy Class: Once you've completed the trial, you will be able to choose from several Ascendancy classes specific to your starting class. These will provide you with powerful bonuses and abilities, further defining your playstyle.
Choosing Your Ascendancy Class
The next major step in ascending your character is selecting your Ascendancy class. Each of the core classes in Path of Exile 2 will have a corresponding set of Ascendancy options that specialize their builds. These choices should reflect the way you want to play, whether you're focused on damage, survivability, utility, or a hybrid of different attributes.
Character Classes in Path of Exile 2
In Path of Exile 2, we can expect to see some familiar classes from the first game, along with new ones. Assuming the current system carries over, here are some examples of what you might encounter:
Marauder: A powerful physical fighter focused on brute strength and tanking. Ascendancy options may focus on boosting your melee combat effectiveness, armor, and life leeching.
Ranger: Specializing in ranged combat, traps, and bows. Ascendancy classes for the Ranger might focus on boosting projectile damage, critical hit chance, or movement speed.
Witch: A class focused on buy POE 2 Exalted Orbs spellcasting and summoning. Witch Ascendancy options are likely to focus on increasing your mana regeneration, elemental damage, and minion power.
Duelist: A hybrid melee and ranged character who can specialize in various combat forms. Expect Ascendancy options that enhance both offense and defense, making you versatile in battle.
Templar: A balanced hybrid of magic and strength. Ascendancy for the Templar might enhance your support role, elemental resistances, and aura-related abilities.
Shadow: A stealthy character who specializes in critical hits and evasion. Ascendancy classes for the Shadow may center on trap laying, poison damage, or evasion-based survivability.
Scion: A versatile class that can choose from multiple Ascendancy options depending on its base class. Ascendancy classes for the Scion offer flexibility for players to experiment with hybrid builds.