Can You Change Your Ascendancy in PoE 2? A Comprehensive Guide
Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), the highly anticipated sequel to the iconic action RPG Path of Exile, has been generating a lot of buzz among gamers. One of the most frequently asked questions about the game is whether players can change their ascendancy once it has been selected. This article will delve into the mechanics of ascendancy in PoE 2, explore whether it can be altered, and provide insights into how this system impacts gameplay.
Understanding Ascendancy in PoE 2
For those new to the Path of Exile series, ascendancy refers to a powerful subclass system that allows players to further specialize their characters. Each ascendancy offers unique skills, passive ability bonuses, and playstyle-defining mechanics. In the original Path of Exile, once an ascendancy was chosen, it was effectively locked in, with no option to change it unless the player started a new character.
Can You Change Your Ascendancy in PoE 2?
The short answer is: yes, but with certain limitations. Unlike the original game, Path of Exile 2 introduces a more flexible system that allows players to alter their ascendancy under specific circumstances. However, this flexibility comes with trade-offs that players need to be aware of.
Reassigning Ascendancy Points: In PoE 2, players can reset their ascendancy points by using a special in-game item. This allows them to reallocate their points to different ascendancy options. While this provides more flexibility, it is important to note that this process is not free and may require significant in-game resources.
Rolling a New Character: For those who are completely dissatisfied with their current ascendancy, rolling a new character remains an option. While this may seem like a drastic measure, it allows players to experiment with different builds and playstyles without being locked into a choice they no longer enjoy.
Seasonal Leagues: In Path of Exile 2, seasonal leagues will continue to play a major role. Each season introduces new mechanics, balance changes, and opportunities to start fresh. Players who want to try a different ascendancy can do so by participating in a new season, effectively resetting their progress and giving them a clean slate.
Strategic Considerations
Changing your ascendancy in PoE 2 is not a decision to be taken lightly. Here are some key factors to consider:
Resource Cost: Resetting ascendancy points requires specific in-game items that may be difficult to obtain, especially for newer players. This means that changing your ascendancy could delay your progress in other areas of the game.
Build Viability: Different ascendancies are better suited to certain builds. Before making any changes, it is crucial to research whether the new ascendancy aligns with your character’s current build and playstyle.
Long-term Goals: Consider whether changing your ascendancy is a short-term fix or a long-term solution. If you are unhappy with your current playstyle, switching ascendancies might be the right move. However, if you are simply looking to tweak a few aspects of your build, there may be other options available.
Case Study: A Player’s Journey
Let’s take an example of a player who initially chose the Champion ascendancy for their duelist character. After reaching the endgame, they realized that the Gladiator ascendancy would better suit their bleed-based build. By using an ascendancy reset item, they were able to switch to the Gladiator ascendancy, significantly improving their character’s effectiveness in combat. This flexibility allowed them to continue progressing without the need to start over from scratch.
Conclusion
In Path of Exile 2, the ability to change your ascendancy adds a new layer of flexibility to character customization. While there are limitations and costs associated with making such changes, the option to reallocate ascendancy points or start fresh in a new season provides players with the freedom to experiment and optimize their builds. As with any major decision in PoE 2, careful planning and research are essential to ensure that changing your ascendancy aligns with your long-term goals and playstyle preferences.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the Path of Exile series or a newcomer looking to dive into the world of Wraeclast, understanding how ascendancy works in PoE 2 will be key to maximizing your enjoyment of the game. So, go ahead and explore the possibilities—your perfect build might just be an ascendancy change away.