Grinding Gear Games has just unveiled a massive update for Path of Exile 2, and it’s nothing short of groundbreaking. Dubbed Dawn of the Hunt, this new expansion introduces a wealth of content, including a new playable class, additional ascendancies, over 100 new support gems, unique items, endgame activities, and more.  Today, we'll dive into PoE 2 0.2.0 new ascendancies, and how to choose the best.

PoE 2 Dawn of the Hunt 0.2.0 Ascendancy Guide

Path of Exile 2 ascendancies significantly shape how a character builds their damage, defense, and mechanics. For example, a Ranger can ascend into a Deadeye (focused on projectiles and critical strikes), a Raider (speed and frenzy charge synergy), or a Pathfinder (flask-based enhancements). In Path of Exile 2: Dawn of the Hunt, new ascendancies have been introduced, adding even more depth to character builds. 

Path of Exile 2 New Ascendancies 

1. Ritualist (Huntress)

Theme: Blood magic and animal sacrifice

Playstyle: Buff-based melee/ranged hybrid

Abilities & Mechanics:

• The Ritualist taps into the essence of slain enemies, borrowing their attributes for temporary buffs.

• This mechanic suggests adaptive combat, where the Ritualist gains strength based on the type of enemies killed.

• Likely to feature damage conversion, self-sacrificing mechanics, and minion-style buffs.

Comparison: Similar to the Diablo 2 Amazon or Ritualist from Guild Wars, this class seems to revolve around using nature-based powers and sacrifices for combat enhancements.

2. Amazon (Huntress)

Theme: Agile spear and ranged combat

Playstyle: Versatile hybrid of melee and ranged attacks

Abilities & Mechanics:

• Inspired by the Amazon of Diablo 2, this class specializes in javelins, spears, and bows.

• Can likely switch seamlessly between melee and ranged attacks, making it extremely flexible.

• May have enhanced dodge, counterattack, or mobility abilities to improve survivability.

Comparison: This is the classic spear-wielding warrior, excelling in hit-and-run tactics and weapon-based skills. Likely to be a top-tier choice for aggressive players who enjoy a mix of attack styles.

3. Smith of Kitava (Warrior)

Theme: Blacksmith-themed melee powerhouse

Playstyle: Heavy-hitting, possibly forge-based enhancement abilities

Abilities & Mechanics:

• This warrior class could revolve around weapon crafting and enhancement, allowing on-the-fly improvements.

• May have self-buffing abilities, like forging weapons mid-battle or charging up attacks for increased damage.

• The connection to Kitava suggests fire-based attacks or corruption-infused strikes.

Comparison: Could be similar to Barbarian with fire/forge mechanics or a weapon-based enchanter, using enhancements and powerful swings to devastate foes.

4. Tactician (Mercenary)

Theme: Strategy-focused warrior

Playstyle: Utility-heavy, possibly trap-based combat

Abilities & Mechanics:

• As a master of battlefield control, the Tactician might utilize traps, turrets, or strategic buffs to control the fight.

• Could have team-oriented skills that provide buffs, debuffs, or defensive capabilities.

• Likely to include ranged or melee attack options, focusing on precision strikes rather than brute force.

Comparison: Think of Pathfinder (Ranger) mixed with Saboteur (Trapper) from PoE1, offering high tactical depth and planning.

5. Lich (Witch)

Theme: Dark magic and necromantic power

Playstyle: Minion-based, curse-inflicting, life-draining spellcaster

Abilities & Mechanics:

• Expected to be a true necromancer, summoning the dead and draining life from enemies.

• Could have curses, life-steal mechanics, and spectral abilities, ensuring high survivability.

• May introduce new undead minions, like spectral wraiths or skeletal champions.

Comparison: Feels like a Necromancer from Diablo 2 mixed with Occultist from PoE1, bringing a dark, powerful, and minion-heavy playstyle.

How To Choose The Best Ascendancies In POE 2 0.2.0?

Choosing the best Ascendancy in Path of Exile 2 (0.2.2) depends on several factors, including your playstyle, the build you want to create, and the endgame content you plan to tackle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pick the best Ascendancy:

1. Define Your Playstyle

Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer melee or ranged combat?

• Do you want to focus on spells, minions, or attacks?

• Do you like high-speed, tankiness, or strategic play?

Each Ascendancy enhances a specific playstyle, so knowing what you enjoy most is crucial.

2. Consider Your Class and Build Synergy

Each class has three Ascendancies, and some may be better suited for specific builds. Here’s how they generally align:

If you're playing a high-speed ranged build, Huntress’s Amazon will feel amazing. If you prefer minion-based summoning, Lich is the best pick.

3. Look at Key Strengths & Weaknesses

Each Ascendancy has core strengths. Consider:
✅ High Damage Output: Amazon, Smith of Kitava, Lich
✅ Survivability: Tactician (battlefield control), Ritualist (buffs), Smith of Kitava (high sustain)
✅ Summoning/Minions: Lich
✅ Best for Bossing: Tactician (high-value single-target), Amazon (high mobility)
✅ Best for Mapping: Smith of Kitava (AoE damage), Ritualist (enhancements)

4. Think About Endgame Content

• Boss Farming? → Choose Tactician, Amazon, or Lich for precision and burst damage.

• Fast Mapping? → Smith of Kitava or Amazon for AoE clearing.

• Hardcore (Survivability)? → Tactician or Ritualist for better defensive tools.

• League Mechanics (New Content)? → Lich or Ritualist for strong minion/sustain options.

5. Check Community & Patch Notes

With constant balance changes, some Ascendancies might be stronger or weaker. It’s good to:

• Read patch notes to see buffs/nerfs.

• Look at PoE 2 build guides to see what top players are using.

4