Which Class Is The Best In Path Of Exile?

By Author: Emmaythomson
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When diving into the vast world of Path of Exile (PoE), one of the first decisions you'll need to make is choosing a class. Each class has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice can make a world of difference in your journey. However, picking the "best" class isn't as straightforward as simply choosing the strongest one. Instead, it hinges on what type of playstyle and fantasy role you wish to fulfill. Whether you're interested in dealing damage from afar, wielding massive weapons in close combat, or dabbling in magic, there's a class for you.

Let's break down the available options and explore the various starting stats, abilities, and playstyles, so you can make an informed choice about which class suits you best.

Path of Exile's Base Classes

At the start of Path of Exile, you'll have access to six classes: Duelist, Marauder, Ranger, Shadow, Templar, and Witch. Additionally, there’s a hidden seventh class, Scion, which can only be unlocked later in the game.

1. Duelist (Strength and Dexterity)
The Duelist is a hybrid class with a mix of Strength and Dexterity, which means they ...
... have both tankiness and mobility. This class is ideal for those who want to engage enemies in close combat while maintaining the ability to dodge or move quickly. Duelists can specialize in various playstyles, including sword, bow, or dual-wielding weapons. They're an excellent choice for players who want versatility in their attack styles. The balance of Strength and Dexterity makes the Duelist a robust choice for both beginners and experienced players.

2. Marauder (Strength)
The Marauder is the tankiest class available at the start of the game. With a heavy emphasis on Strength, they specialize in taking and dealing damage up close. If you're drawn to the idea of wading into battle with a massive weapon and absorbing hits without fear, the Marauder is a fantastic choice. They also have access to some of the game’s best defensive skills, making them highly durable. Due to their Strength, they are perfect for beginners who prefer straightforward, physical gameplay. The Marauder excels in survivability, making them one of the most forgiving classes for new players.

3. Ranger (Dexterity)
The Ranger is a class built for speed, mobility, and ranged damage. With a focus on Dexterity, Rangers excel at dodging attacks and dealing devastating damage from afar with bows or traps. Rangers are an ideal choice for players who prefer to stay out of harm’s way while picking off enemies from a distance. They are excellent for players who want to avoid the chaos of melee combat and excel at crowd control or sniping enemies from behind cover. While they can deal huge amounts of damage, their lack of defensive skills makes them vulnerable if caught in a tight spot.

4. Shadow (Dexterity and Intelligence)
The Shadow is a nimble, stealthy class that uses both Dexterity and Intelligence. They specialize in traps, mines, and poison damage, making them great for players who enjoy subtle gameplay and strategic placement. Shadows can be devastating in terms of damage output but require more planning and foresight to make the most out of their abilities. If you enjoy the thrill of ambushes and controlling the battlefield through the use of stealth and subterfuge, this class may suit you well. While they’re weaker in terms of raw health and defense, they make up for it with their ability to set traps and deal precise damage from a distance.

5. Templar (Strength and Intelligence)
The Templar is a hybrid class that combines the raw power of Strength with the magical abilities of Intelligence. This class is perfect for players who enjoy blending physical combat with magic, as they can specialize in either melee damage or spellcasting. Templars are also known for their durability and can serve as both a tank and a caster, making them versatile and well-suited for a variety of playstyles. Their ability to both take damage and deal magic or physical damage makes them a good option for players who want flexibility in their gameplay. The Templar is often recommended for those who want a balance of power, magic, and tanking ability.

6. Witch (Intelligence)
The Witch is the quintessential caster class in Path of Exile, specializing in Intelligence-based magic. If you prefer casting spells and manipulating the elements, the Witch is an excellent choice. Witches excel in dealing heavy damage from a distance through elemental and chaos spells, but they are fragile and require careful positioning to survive. For players who enjoy spellcasting and want to learn about the intricacies of PoE’s complex skill system, the Witch is an outstanding option. They offer high damage output but come with a steep learning curve in terms of defense and positioning.

7. Scion (Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence)
The Scion is a versatile class that can be unlocked later in the game, offering a unique blend of all three attributes—Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence. This class starts at the center of the passive skill tree, allowing players to easily build toward any type of gameplay. The Scion’s adaptability makes them one of the most powerful classes in the game, but their true potential is unlocked through careful planning and an understanding of the passive skill tree. While Scion may be difficult for beginners to fully optimize, experienced players who want complete freedom in their build choices will find this class to be an intriguing option.

Class Recommendations for Beginners

If you're new to Path of Exile, choosing a class that suits your playstyle is crucial for a smooth start. While all classes can be made to work in the endgame, some are easier to manage in the early stages.

Marauder: If you want a class that is hard to kill and allows you to focus on simple melee combat, the Marauder is an excellent starting point. Their high health and straightforward playstyle make them forgiving and powerful early on.
Templar: For those who want to experiment with both magic and physical combat, the Templar is a great choice. They offer strong survivability, and you can play around with a variety of abilities as you progress.

Ranger: If you're looking to deal high damage from a distance and prefer a faster, more agile playstyle, the Ranger is a safe bet. Keep in mind, however, that Rangers require more skill in avoiding damage and positioning themselves effectively.

Conclusion

In Path of Exile, there is no definitive "best" class, as each one offers unique strengths and challenges. The best class is ultimately the one that aligns with the playstyle you most enjoy. If you're a newcomer, the Marauder and Templar offer strong durability and straightforward mechanics, making them ideal for learning the ropes of the game. However, if you enjoy ranged combat and agility, the Ranger or Shadow might be more your style. No matter what, every class has the potential to be powerful, and your journey in Path of Exile will largely depend on your choice of abilities, passive skills, and itemization.

So, when it comes to picking your class, the most important factor is which fantasy role excites you the most. Dive into the world of Path of Exile, and remember that no matter which class you choose, the possibilities are nearly endless. Happy hunting, Exile!

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