Path of Exile 2 has entered the early access phase, introducing six unique classes, each with two Ascendancies or subclasses. While the number of classes is set to expand upon full release, players are already debating which of the initial offerings stands out as the best. Some builds struggle against campaign bosses but excel in the endgame, while others deliver consistent strength throughout their journey—even facing immediate adjustments to balance. Let’s break down the best classes available during this early access period.
Path of Exile 2 Early Access Class Tier List
S Tier | Sorceress and Witch |
A Tier | Ranger |
B Tier | Mercenary and Monk |
C Tier | Warrior |
S Tier – Sorceress and Witch
The Sorceress and Witch classes have emerged as the top choices among players. With skills like Summon Raging Spirit (SRS) and powerful spells such as Comet and Spark, these spellcasters exhibit incredible performance across the game. This is particularly beneficial given the tendency to avoid direct confrontations with difficult campaign bosses.
The primary strategy for these classes revolves around casting spells while maintaining distance, thus extending the opportunity to evade incoming attacks. Notably, the Witch can summon minions to bear the brunt of damage, enhancing its status as one of the most effective leveling characters available.
Similarly, Sorcerers with a Spark build can efficiently clear swathes of enemies in mere seconds, capitalizing on their range and area damage capabilities.
A Tier – Ranger
Interestingly, despite not garnering as much popularity, the Ranger class can effectively tackle all forms of content. Although it mirrors the Ranger archetype from the original Path of Exile, many seasoned players have opted to explore new classes during early access.
The Ranger excels in mobility, able to kite foes and attack from a distance. Builds such as Gas Grenade and Magnetic Salvo, popularized by creators like CoffeeBns and Fubgun, showcase the class’s strength. However, the current preference leans heavily towards the Deadeye Ascendancy, as changes in the game’s utility mechanics have diminished the appeal of the Pathfinder. Nonetheless, Deadeye remains a robust option for players seeking versatility in handling diverse content.
B Tier – Mercenary and Monk
The Mercenary and Monk classes rank among the most popular choices following the Witch. Mercenaries can utilize an alternate version of the Gas Grenade build, celebrated by players like Lolcohol and Empyrian during this early access phase. This build revolves around an array of grenade skills, emphasizing area damage to swarm enemies.
On the other hand, Monks are distinguished by their build flexibility, featuring notable options like CoC/Eye of Winter and Lightning Comet. Although Monks may take time to reach their potential during the campaign, the right combination of skill gems can elevate their tier to A or even S as they progress in capabilities.
C Tier – Warrior
Despite the numerous builds available for the Warrior class, it faces significant challenges in the campaign due to limited mobility and clear speed. Achieving a competitive level with a Warrior requires an understanding of advanced defensive mechanics and considerable leveling efforts.
Recent unintended bugs briefly allowed Warriors using charged-up Slam skills to defeat bosses almost instantaneously, though developers quickly implemented nerfs. While traversing the campaign may prove arduous, Warriors maintain potential in the endgame once they acquire their Ascendancies and key skill gems. Popular builds such as Boneshatter and various totem strategies can elevate a Warrior’s effectiveness significantly.
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