The Mercenary is one of the newest additions to Path of Exile 2, and it has quickly gained popularity among players. As a ranged class, Mercenaries pack a punch that surpasses the standard Ranger. With the right equipment, skills, and strategy, they can make short work of both enemies and bosses. However, to reach this level of effectiveness, you'll need a solid build guide for the Mercenary in Path of Exile 2. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive guide that covers the best skills, Support and Spirit Gems, and Ascendancy options for this class.

Unlike the Ranger, the Mercenary in Path of Exile 2 uses a crossbow instead of a bow and arrow. This weapon choice opens up a variety of ammunition types, which can be switched between much like casting different skills on other classes, such as the Sorceress. Initially, this switching might feel awkward, but as you progress, you'll learn which ammo types are best for specific situations. The crossbow primarily deals fire and frost elemental damage, but it also supports regular bolts and armor-piercing rounds, giving you flexibility in your damage output. The Mercenary isn't tied to a single elemental type, so you can choose skills that deal the most damage based on your build.

Dexterity is the primary attribute for the Mercenary, enhancing the accuracy of your shots. While the class is well-rounded, some gear may require additional points in Intelligence or Strength. However, most of your skills will rely on Dexterity and Strength, so these are the attributes you should focus on. Now that you have a basic grasp of the Mercenary, it's time to equip the class with its most effective skills. Mercenaries don't need to rely on late-game skills, as early-game abilities can deal significant damage from the start.

The best skills for the Mercenary include a mix of elemental damage and other types of rounds that offer faster firing rates or extended ammo. While elemental ammo typically requires reloading after a single shot, skills that allow for quicker or longer-lasting attacks are invaluable. Here are the recommended skills for the Mercenary in Path of Exile 2:

In addition to these skills, you can also use the basic "Crossbow Shot," which is available when you equip any crossbow. This is a simple attack, but it's useful for dealing with weaker enemies and providing consistent damage to bosses. Cluster Grenade is a skill you'll need to wait for, as it's usually unlocked during Cruel difficulty. Initially, you might use Gas and Oil Grenade as substitutes. The other skills listed are available at Level 12 or lower, making them accessible early in the campaign. These skills provide a variety of ammo types, including multiple elemental options and rounds with higher fire rates.

After selecting your skills, you'll want to equip the recommended Support Gems for enhanced performance. Don't overlook Spirit Gems either, as they offer valuable persistent buffs for the Mercenary. Here are some Support Gems and Spirit Gems we recommend:

Support Gems

Spirit Gems

Next, focus on the Mercenary's Passive Ability skill tree. Prioritize boosts to projectile damage, reload speed, AoE effects, and attribute buffs for Strength and Dexterity. If you prefer a more defensive build, increasing armor and evasion ratings are also effective options. Here are some suggested Passive Abilities for the Mercenary:

Finally, once you've leveled up the Mercenary, you can choose an Ascendancy. In early access, two options are available: Witch Hunter and Gemling Legionnaire. Witch Hunter is generally the better choice, offering superior damage-boosting abilities and simpler mechanics. This Ascendancy also enhances explosion effects, making them longer, more damaging, and capable of interrupting enemy casting.

That concludes our Mercenary build guide for Path of Exile 2. If you're interested in exploring other classes, we recommend checking out the Monk, which offers a well-balanced and impressive build.

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