The Ultimate Ascendancy

The new update for Path of Exile 2, dubbed the 0.2.0 patch, introduces two intriguing classes, the Huntress and the Ritualist, which are poised to dominate the gameplay. The Ritualist, in particular, is gaining a lot of attention due to its unique nodes – Unfurled Finger and Mystic Attunement – that could make it a formidable option for endgame builds. Many players are expected to flock to the Ritualist because of its immense potential, though further adjustments in subsequent patches might be on the horizon.

Recently, Grinding Gear Games provided a sneak peek into the upcoming Dawn of the Hunt update, set to arrive on April 2. Although the details were scarce, it’s evident that this patch will significantly expand the game, introducing substantial changes to existing systems, including the endgame loop. With the arrival of the new class, Huntress, and five fresh Ascendancies, predicting the optimal choice for patch 0.2.0 might seem daunting, yet certain things are already becoming clear.

The Huntress is poised to capture the attention of many players in the new patch, mainly because it’s the sole new base class intertwined with the hunt for ancient spirits theme. Within the upcoming content, the Huntress is expected to shine, especially with new spear skills yet to be evaluated. However, one particular Ascendancy is anticipated to become so powerful that it might mandate a nerf in the future.

Path of Exile 2’s Ritualist Ascendancy for the Huntress appears incredibly potent from the outset, even with just its foundational nodes. The standout features are two specific nodes that enhance any endgame composition profoundly. These are Unfurled Finger, which grants an additional ring slot, and Mystic Attunement, increasing the benefits derived from Equipped Rings and Amulets by 25%.

In Path of Exile 2, rings offer significant boosts, from Item Rarity and Life to Mana, Resistances, and damage. Thus, unlocking a third ring slot and amplifying the effects of all three by 25% is an opportunity that’s hard to ignore.

Interestingly, opting for the Ritualist does not confine players to spear skills; the additional rings can be utilized across any build.

Take, for instance, the highly sought-after Ingenuity Unique belt within the game. It’s a staple in many meta builds, owing to its capability to enhance bonuses from Equipped Rings by 40 to 80%. Although not as elusive or costly as other coveted items like Astramentis, Ingenuity is exceptional in its own right. With the Ritualist Ascendancy, gaining a third ring and boosting the effectiveness of all, including amulets, elevates its importance even further.

With the Huntress being the novel addition and the Ritualist’s substantial endgame power, it’s plausible that many players will opt for this Ascendancy in the updated Path of Exile 2. Furthermore, the small node leading to Mystic Attunement offers a 3% increase in Attributes, which could prove advantageous if stat-stacking mechanics remain unnerfed.

However, there are considerations to keep in mind regarding the Ritualist. There’s a possibility that Ingenuity may be subjected to nerfs, either in its impact or availability, or potentially face complete reworking. Such an adjustment would prevent monumental power gains, as the Ritualist’s synergy with Ingenuity could lead players to achieve over a 100% increase in ring effects. Grinding Gear Games is unlikely to allow such an overpowering combination. Additionally, the patch notes for the Dawn of the Hunt update haven’t been disclosed yet, and it’s possible many current meta builds could see adjustments. For the Ritualist, this could be a downside if certain abilities like Herald of Thunder and Ice face reductions, but only time will confirm this. For now, the Ritualist seems to be an unmatched choice for those who gear up adequately.