Guide
Which Path of Exile 2 Class Should You Play?
A quick guide to choosing among the 8 Path of Exile 2 classes by playstyle.
0.5 Return of the Ancients · updated October 17, 2026
Choose by playstyle first
- Want to hit things up close: Warrior or Huntress.
- Want ranged damage with weapons: Ranger (bows) or Mercenary (crossbows and grenades).
- Want spells: Sorceress for elemental storms, or Witch for minions and curses.
- Want fast combos: Monk.
- Want shapeshifting: Druid.
Safe league-start picks
In our rankings, Stormweaver, Deadeye, Martial Artist and Spirit Walker are the S tier ascendancies. If you want the most forgiving start, begin with the one whose weapon you like the most.
Do not over-plan
Balance changes arrive every patch and 1.0 is scheduled for 11 December 2026, so treat any tier list, including ours, as a snapshot. See the full ascendancy tier list and the patch timeline.
FAQ
Which Path of Exile 2 class is best for beginners?
Pick the class whose weapon and playstyle you enjoy. In our rankings Stormweaver, Deadeye, Martial Artist and Spirit Walker are S tier.