Path of Exile 2: Ascendancy Points Guide
Ascendancy Points are crucial for unlocking powerful subclass upgrades in Path of Exile 2. Each of the 7 base classes has 2 unique Ascendancy paths, allowing for deep customization of your playstyle.
This guide covers:
✔ What are Ascendancy Points?
✔ All Ascendancy subclasses in PoE 2
✔ How to earn Ascendancy Points
✔ Maximizing your build with Trials
What Are Ascendancy Points?
Ascendancy Points allow you to unlock and upgrade your chosen subclass, granting unique abilities that define your build. Unlike regular skill points, these significantly alter gameplay, not just boost stats.
All Ascendancy Subclasses in PoE 2
Base ClassAscendancy PathsWarriorTitan / WarbringerMercenaryGemling Legionnaire / WitchhunterWitchBlood Mage / InfernalistSorceressChronomancer / StormweaverMonkInvoker / Acolyte of ChayulaRangerPathfinder / DeadeyeHuntressAmazon / Ritualist
How to Get Ascendancy Points in Path of Exile 2
You can earn Ascendancy Points by completing Trials, special dungeons with unique challenges.
1. Trial of Sekhemas (Act 2)
Reward: 2 Ascendancy Points
Objective: Defeat enemies and a final boss while preserving Honor (lose Honor when taking damage).
Best Strategy: Avoid unnecessary damage to maximize rewards.
2. Trial of Chaos (Act 3)
Reward: 2 Ascendancy Points
Objective: Survive chaotic enemy waves and defeat the final boss.
Best Strategy: Focus on crowd control and high burst damage.
3. Repeating Trials on Cruel Difficulty
After beating the game, start a new playthrough on Cruel difficulty.
Enemies are stronger, but you keep your skills and gear.
Complete Trials again to earn 4 more Ascendancy Points.
Total Ascendancy Points Available:
First Playthrough: 4 Points (2 from each Trial)
Cruel Difficulty: 4 Additional Points
Maximum Possible: 8 Ascendancy Points
Best Strategies for Ascendancy Trials
Optimize Your Build Before Attempting
Ensure your character has strong defenses and sustain to minimize Honor loss in the Trial of Sekhemas.
For the Trial of Chaos, AoE skills and mobility are key.
Farm Gear Before Trials
Upgrade weapons and armor to handle tougher enemies in Cruel difficulty.
Plan Your Ascendancy Path Early
Decide which subclass suits your playstyle before spending points.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I reset Ascendancy Points?
A: Currently, respec options are limited, so choose wisely.
Q: Are there more Trials in later acts?
A: As of early access, only two Trials are available, but future updates may expand this.
Q: Do Ascendancy Points carry over between characters?
A: No, each character must earn their own points.
Final Tips for Maximizing Ascendancy
Prioritize survivability in Trials to preserve Honor.
Experiment with different subclasses to find your ideal playstyle.
Farm better gear before attempting Cruel difficulty.