Path of Exile 2: Mercenary Class Hands-On + Endgame First Look

The upcoming Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a major evolution of the franchise, and one of the standout features is the introduction of new classes like the Mercenary. This class brings a mix of versatility, resourcefulness, and a unique playstyle that sets it apart. In this hands-on preview, we’ll dive into the Mercenary class mechanics, abilities, and how it transitions into Path of Exile 2’s revamped endgame.

The Mercenary Class: A Jack-of-All-Trades

The Mercenary is a hybrid class combining mobility, adaptability, and a unique focus on tactical resource management. Here’s a breakdown of its features:

Core Mechanics

  • Versatile Weaponry: The Mercenary can switch seamlessly between melee and ranged attacks, utilizing dual daggers, bows, or one-handed swords.
  • Adrenaline Gauge: A unique resource mechanic that builds as you attack enemies or dodge their hits. This gauge fuels powerful burst abilities.
  • Trap and Tactics Synergy: Specializes in deploying traps and crowd-control effects while maintaining high mobility.

Playstyle

The Mercenary thrives on positioning and quick decision-making. Whether you prefer darting through enemies with quick melee strikes or outmaneuvering foes with ranged precision, the Mercenary offers multiple build paths to suit your playstyle.

Mercenary Abilities

1. Phantom Strike

A quick melee attack that allows the Mercenary to teleport behind enemies and deal bonus critical damage.

  • Synergies: Pairs well with crit-based builds and increases Adrenaline gain.

2. Ricochet Arrow

A ranged attack that bounces between enemies, applying stacking debuffs.

  • Upgrade Options: Can be modified to deal elemental damage or leech life.

3. Trap Barrage

Deploys a cluster of traps that explode on proximity, dealing area damage and slowing enemies.

  • Endgame Potential: Essential for crowd control in boss fights or high-density maps.

4. Adrenaline Rush (Ultimate Skill)

Consumes the Adrenaline Gauge for a short burst of speed poe 2 orb for sale, attack rate, and damage immunity. Perfect for escaping or delivering a devastating assault.

Endgame First Look

Path of Exile 2’s endgame is receiving a major overhaul, promising deeper progression, complex mechanics, and more variety. Here’s what we know:

New Endgame Maps

  • Dynamic Maps: Maps will feature evolving layouts, making each run feel unique.
  • Map Affixes: Expect new modifiers that challenge even veteran players, including synergy-based affixes that interact with your build’s mechanics.

Expanded Atlas Progression

The Mercenary class fits seamlessly into the revamped Atlas of Worlds, which now includes:

  • Faction-Based Challenges: Align with mercenary guilds to gain powerful bonuses and access exclusive maps.
  • Ascension Trials: Test your skills in multi-phase encounters that scale with your progress.

Endgame Mercenary Builds

The Mercenary’s adaptability makes it ideal for late-game content. Popular builds include:

  • Crit-Based Phantom Strike: Focused on fast attacks and massive burst damage.
  • Trap Specialist: Leveraging Trap Barrage and elemental damage for map-clearing efficiency.
  • Hybrid Archer/Dagger Build: Combines Ricochet Arrow with Phantom Strike for a dynamic playstyle.

Impressions and Final Thought

The Mercenary class stands out for its versatility and fluid gameplay. Whether you’re dodging attacks or outsmarting enemies with tactical traps, this class promises to be a favorite among players who enjoy high skill ceilings and dynamic combat.

With Path of Exile 2’s overhauled endgame, the Mercenary has plenty of room to shine, offering exciting opportunities for innovative builds.

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Embrace the challenge, master the Mercenary, and conquer the new endgame like never before!If you want to know more, you can read this article: Best Endgame Monk Build Guide In Poe 2