Path of Exile 2 Beginner Guide: Classes, Skills and Endgame
Path of Exile 2 is Grinding Gear Games' sequel to its legendary action RPG, with slower, more deliberate combat and an enormous amount of build freedom. It can feel overwhelming at first. These basics get you through the campaign and into the endgame.
Last updated: Beginner guide · Oct 18, 2026 · 2 min read
Pick a class you enjoy
Each class starts in a different area of the passive tree and has its own ascendancy options. Pick the playstyle you enjoy — melee, ranged or spells — rather than chasing the current meta. Almost every class can clear the campaign comfortably with a reasonable build.
Skill and support gems
Skills come from uncut skill gems that you choose as you go, and support gems modify them — adding damage, area or extra effects. Keep two or three main skills and a movement or defensive skill. Upgrading your main skill's gem level is one of the biggest damage increases in the campaign.
The passive tree and ascendancy
Plan a path through the passive tree towards nodes that boost your main damage type and defences. Ascendancy points come from trials during the campaign and give some of the most powerful bonuses in the game, so complete them when you reach them.
Currency and crafting
Currency items double as crafting materials:
- Orbs of Transmutation, Augmentation and Regal Orbs upgrade item rarity.
- Exalted Orbs add modifiers and are widely used as trade currency.
- Divine Orbs reroll values and are among the most valuable orbs.
- Don't use rare orbs on campaign gear — save them for endgame items or trading.
Defences matter
Many new players die because they focus only on damage. Keep your elemental resistances high, pick up life or energy shield and learn to dodge-roll out of big attacks. Boss fights are about learning patterns, not just stats.
Reaching the endgame
After the campaign, the endgame Atlas uses Waystones to open maps of increasing difficulty. Progress gradually, upgrade your gear through trade or crafting, and add challenge as your character gets stronger.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best class for beginners in Path of Exile 2?
Any class can work. Choose the playstyle you enjoy and follow a beginner-friendly build guide for that class.
What is the main trade currency in Path of Exile 2?
Exalted Orbs are widely used for everyday trades, with Divine Orbs used for more expensive items.
Why do I keep dying in Path of Exile 2?
Usually low resistances or too little life or energy shield. Balance defences with damage and learn to dodge big attacks.