Top Ranked Classes in Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2 currently features six playable classes in its Early Access phase, with 12 more classes planned for the official launch in 2025. These classes include the Mercenary, Monk, Ranger, Sorceress, Warrior, and Witch, each boasting unique playstyles and abilities that significantly influence gameplay.

From a new player’s perspective, the Mercenary and Monk classes shine in terms of combat feel and overall effectiveness. Despite the Warrior class being ranked the lowest, it still demonstrates exceptional proficiency in endgame content and boss encounters, while Mercenaries and Monks possess their own limitations. This guide evaluates the classes based on their performance in the Early Access phase and will be updated to reflect future balance changes and new class introductions.

1 Mercenary

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Mercenary

The Mercenary utilizes a versatile crossbow, capable of utilizing various ammunition types for diverse combat strategies.

Primary Attributes: Dexterity and Strength
Primary Weapon: Crossbow
Playstyle: Engage enemies with ranged attacks and customize ammunition for unique effects
Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium

The Mercenary stands out as the strongest class in Path of Exile 2 due to its distinctive shooter-style combat mechanics. Players can transform the game into a top-down shooter, wielding a crossbow that can simulate the effects of shotguns, snipers, and machine guns through swappable ammo. The addition of Grenades grants further tactical flexibility, dealing a variety of status effects and substantial area damage.

With a blend of Dexterity and Strength, the Mercenary enjoys commendable defensive capabilities, equipping both armor and evasion gear. While they may not escape melee encounters as easily as Rangers, their firepower enables effective crowd control through explosive combat. This class is ideal for players looking for a compelling blend of range combat and straightforward gameplay.

2 Monk

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Monk

The Monk excels as a swift, agile melee fighter, employing dynamic movement to keep enemies at bay while maintaining momentum.

Primary Attributes: Dexterity and Intelligence
Primary Weapon: Quarterstaff
Playstyle: Fast-paced combat combining melee and ranged attacks
Difficulty Level: Medium

The Monk class, while also melee-focused, distinguishes itself by blending Dexterity and Intelligence. While it may be more challenging to master compared to the Warrior, those who invest time will discover a class capable of impressive damage output and rapid area-clearing capabilities. With potent Ascendancy options, the Monk is adaptable, making it suitable for various playstyles.

Players seeking a flashy and engaging combat experience with a touch of complexity will find the Monk to be a rewarding choice, particularly in situations where AoE and single-target damage matter equally.

3 Ranger

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Ranger

The Ranger is an agile and deadly combatant, deftly shooting arrows at enemies while remaining elusive.

Primary Attributes: Dexterity
Primary Weapon: Bow
Playstyle: Mobility-focused, archery-based combat
Difficulty Level: Medium

The Ranger serves as the primary Dexterity class in Path of Exile 2. With exceptional evasion skills and agile movement, Rangers can deliver relentless ranged assaults while dodging enemy attacks. The class showcases a diverse array of powerful builds, thriving in both leveling and endgame scenarios.

However, players should be cautious about their Evasion levels; if not prioritized, the class can become vulnerable. Regardless, Rangers who master their skills will find themselves able to escape most perilous situations, making them ideal for those who favor a high-energy playstyle.

4 Sorceress

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Sorceress

The Sorceress commands elemental magic, devastating her foes with powerful spells from a distance.

Primary Attributes: Intelligence
Primary Weapon: Wand
Playstyle: Elemental spellcasting and AoE damage
Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium

Nevertheless, the typical vulnerabilities associated with spellcaster classes persist; while the Sorceress can deal heavy damage, she struggles with defense and can be easily overwhelmed in chaotic situations. Balancing offense with solid defensive gear is crucial for playing a Sorceress effectively, ensuring survival during challenging encounters.

5 Witch

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Witch

The Witch thrives on chaos, summoning the undead and casting spells of decay to dominate her foes.

Primary Attributes: Intelligence
Primary Weapon: Sceptre
Playstyle: Minion summoner and curse specialist
Difficulty Level: Medium to Hard

Channeling themes reminiscent of classic necromancy, the Witch class allows players to summon minions and curse adversaries while casting powerful elemental spells. Although the Witch class holds substantial potential in endgame scenarios, it often faces difficulties during the early game until key minion and spell upgrades are available.

With strategic passive skills and Ascendancy options, players can shift the Witch’s focus toward direct damage, reducing reliance on minions while still leveraging the system’s depth. This flexibility allows for a customized gameplay experience tailored to personal preferences.

6 Warrior

Strengths & Weaknesses of the Warrior

The Warrior delivers heavy, ground-shaking blows while maintaining a robust defense against smaller foes.

Primary Attributes: Strength
Primary Weapon: Two-Handed Mace
Playstyle: Engaging in high-damage melee combat
Difficulty Level: Medium to Hard

Characterized as the archetypal melee class, the Warrior specializes in applying sheer brute force to overpower enemies. Equipped with a Two-Handed Mace, Warriors boast high damage potential and considerable defensive capabilities, enabling them to thrive in melee conflict.

While the Warrior’s melee-centric nature may present challenges, particularly against ranged enemies, those adept at following boss mechanics and refining their builds can unlock powerful single-target damage potential. This class may not be the most beginner-friendly option, but dedicated players who embrace its complexities can experience exhilarating gameplay and rewarding endgame experiences.

Source & Images