Path of Exile 2: Can You Change Your Ascendancy?

Path of Exile 2: Ascendancy Choices Are Permanent – A Guide to Avoiding Mistakes

Unlike its predecessor, Path of Exile 2 introduces a permanent ascendancy system. Your ascendancy choice, made in Act 2 after completing a Trial, is irreversible. This means no refunds, no respecs, and no switching to a different ascendancy later in the game. This article explores the implications of this change and offers strategies for making the right choice.

How Ascendancies Function in Path of Exile 2

In Path of Exile 2, the ascendancy selection occurs early, at a point where your character's build may still be evolving. This early commitment contrasts sharply with Path of Exile 1, where ascendancy changes were possible through labyrinth resets. This permanent choice adds a layer of strategic depth, demanding careful consideration before committing.

Can You Respec Your Ascendancy?

The short answer is no. While you can refund individual ascendancy points, you remain locked into your initial selection. There's no mechanism to switch from, say, Blood Mage to Infernalist, even if you regret your decision.

Reasons Behind the Irreversible Ascendancy System

Grinding Gear Games hasn't explicitly detailed their reasoning, but several factors likely influenced this design choice:

• Enhanced Build Significance: Permanent choices encourage players to invest deeply in their builds, fostering a greater sense of commitment and accomplishment. This discourages constant meta-chasing.
• Promoting Multiple Playthroughs: Path of Exile 2's design emphasizes multiple character playthroughs. The permanent ascendancy system subtly encourages the creation of new characters rather than respeccing existing ones.
• Early Commitment and Playstyle: The early Act 2 selection forces players to consider their playstyle earlier, potentially leading to more thoughtful decisions (though also more potential mistakes).
• Preventing System Abuse: The developers likely sought to prevent potential exploits that might arise from allowing frequent ascendancy changes.

Dealing with an Incorrect Ascendancy Choice

If you've made a regrettable choice, your options are limited:

• Adaptation: Attempt to adapt your build to work with the chosen ascendancy. Respeccing points into more compatible skills might salvage the situation.
• New Character Creation: Starting a new character is the most effective solution, albeit a frustrating one. Consider transferring valuable gear to expedite progression.
• Awaiting Future Updates: While not guaranteed, future updates might introduce a respec mechanism in response to player feedback.

Avoiding Ascendancy Mistakes

The key to success lies in careful planning:

• Thorough Research: Invest time in researching available ascendancies and their synergies with various builds.
• Skill Testing: Experiment with different skills and weapons before committing to an ascendancy.
• Careful Consideration: Don't rush the decision. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
• UI Vigilance: Be mindful of potential UI glitches that might lead to accidental selections. Double-check your choice before finalizing.

Conclusion

Path of Exile 2's permanent ascendancy system adds a layer of strategic depth but also introduces a significant risk. Careful planning and research are crucial to avoid regrettable choices. While there's no in-game respec option currently, adapting your build or starting anew remains your recourse if you make a mistake.

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