Classes of Path of Exile: Which One Should You Choose? – Path of Exile is a highly acclaimed action RPG known for its intricate gameplay and vast character customization. One of the most crucial decisions players face is choosing the right class. In this article, we’ll dive into the classes of Path of Exile, including base classes, their strengths, and tips on picking the best one for your playstyle.
Path of Exile Number of Classes: Base and Ascendancy Overview
In Path of Exile, there are seven base classes: Marauder, Duelist, Ranger, Shadow, Witch, Templar, and Scion. These classes serve as the foundation of your character. Additionally, each base class has three unique Ascendancy Classes, bringing the total number of classes to 36. These Ascendancy Classes further define your character’s role, offering specialized skills and passive abilities tailored to different playstyles.
Choosing the right class depends on how you want to approach the game. Whether you prefer close combat, ranged attacks, or spellcasting, the classes in Path of Exile cater to various preferences, making the experience highly customizable.
Path of Exile All Classes Explained
Here’s a closer look at all the base classes and what they bring to the table:
Marauder
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The Marauder is the epitome of strength and durability. Specializing in melee combat, this class excels at dealing physical damage and absorbing hits. If you prefer a tanky playstyle that allows you to withstand tough enemies, the Marauder is one of the best choices.
Duelist
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A hybrid of strength and dexterity, the Duelist thrives in close combat but also has the agility to dodge and counter attacks. This class is perfect for players who enjoy a balanced playstyle with a mix of offense and defense.
Ranger
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The Ranger is all about dexterity and precision. As a master of ranged attacks, this class excels at dealing damage from a distance. If you prefer keeping your enemies at bay while dealing high damage, the Ranger is your go-to class.
Shadow
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The Shadow combines dexterity and intelligence, making him a master of stealth and traps. This class is ideal for players who enjoy setting traps or inflicting damage over time through poisons.
Witch
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The Witch embodies intelligence and is the master of spellcasting. From summoning minions to casting devastating elemental spells, the Witch is perfect for players who love magic-based combat.
Templar
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A fusion of strength and intelligence, the Templar is a versatile class capable of both physical and magical combat. This class suits players who want a mix of tankiness and spellcasting abilities.
Scion
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The Scion is a unique class unlocked later in the game. She combines all three attributes—strength, dexterity, and intelligence—making her one of the most versatile classes. However, her complexity makes her more suited to experienced players.(Read Too: DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS Now Available on Steam!!)
Path of Exile Best Class: How to Choose
The best class of Path of Exile depends on your preferred playstyle. Here are a few tips to help you decide:
- Melee vs. Ranged Combat: If you enjoy melee combat, consider the Marauder or Duelist. For ranged combat, the Ranger or Shadow might be more suitable.
- Magic vs. Physical Damage: Players who love magic should opt for the Witch or Templar, while those preferring physical damage should consider the Marauder or Duelist.
- Complexity: Beginners may find the Scion challenging, so it’s recommended to start with simpler classes like the Marauder or Ranger.
Path of Exile Classes Explained: Ascendancy Classes
Once you’ve selected a base class, the next step is choosing an Ascendancy Class. This choice allows you to specialize your character even further. Here’s a quick overview of how Ascendancy Classes enhance the gameplay experience:
- Marauder’s Ascendancies: Juggernaut (tank), Berserker (damage), and Chieftain (support/damage).
- Duelist’s Ascendancies: Slayer (lifesteal), Gladiator (block-focused), and Champion (a mix of offense and defense).
- Ranger’s Ascendancies: Deadeye (projectiles), Raider (speed), and Pathfinder (flasks and poison).
- Shadow’s Ascendancies: Assassin (crits), Saboteur (traps/mines), and Trickster (evasion and energy shield).
- Witch’s Ascendancies: Necromancer (minions), Elementalist (elemental damage), and Occultist (chaos damage and curses).
- Templar’s Ascendancies: Inquisitor (elemental damage), Hierophant (totems), and Guardian (auras and support).
- Scion’s Ascendancy: Ascendant, which allows you to mix abilities from other Ascendancy Classes.
Path of Exile All Classes: Strengths and Weaknesses
Each base class and Ascendancy Class has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these will help you make the most of your character. For example, the Witch’s spellcasting abilities make her excellent at dealing elemental damage but leave her vulnerable to physical attacks. Similarly, the Duelist’s balance of strength and dexterity gives him versatility, but he may lack the raw power of the Marauder.
Experimenting with different classes can help you find the one that fits your playstyle best.
Path of Exile Base Classes: Where to Begin
Your journey in Path of Exile begins with selecting a base class during character creation. This choice determines your starting attributes and skill tree location, influencing how you build your character. However, with the game’s flexible skill tree system, even the same base class can be built in countless ways.
If you’re new to the game, starting with straightforward classes like the Marauder or Ranger is recommended. They provide a solid introduction to the mechanics of Path of Exile without overwhelming complexity.
Which Class is Best for Beginners?
For newcomers, the best class of Path of Exile is often the Marauder or Ranger. The Marauder offers simplicity and durability, allowing players to focus on learning the game’s mechanics. Meanwhile, the Ranger’s straightforward ranged attacks make her an excellent choice for those who prefer ranged combat.(Read Too: Hollow Knight Lore Explained: The Origins of the Pale King)
Final Thoughts: Classes of Path of Exile
Choosing the right class in Path of Exile is a crucial step in your journey. With seven base classes and 36 Ascendancy Classes, the possibilities are nearly endless. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each class will enhance your experience.
Remember, the best way to find your ideal class is by experimenting and exploring the game’s deep customization system – Classes of Path of Exile: Which One Should You Choose?