Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) brings new possibilities to the table for players looking to create powerful builds, and one of the most intriguing options is the mercenary. Mercenaries are hired soldiers who can assist you in combat and provide support in various ways, but building a strong mercenary requires a deep understanding of both the game mechanics and the strategies that make mercenaries effective in different situations. In this article, we'll dive into how to build a mercenary in PoE 2 and explore some of the top choices for gameplay.

Understanding the Role of a Mercenary in PoE 2

Mercenaries are unique units in PoE 2 that can be used to complement your character's abilities. They can either tank damage, deal damage, or provide utility through buffs or debuffs. The key to making the most out of your mercenary lies in selecting the right class, gear, and skill setup. A well-built mercenary can make a significant difference, especially in tougher endgame content.

Choosing the Right Mercenary Class

The first step in building a mercenary in PoE 2 is selecting the right class. Each class offers different benefits based on your playstyle and goals. Here are some of the most viable mercenary classes you can choose from:

1. The Gladiator Mercenary The Gladiator is one of the most popular mercenaries in PoE 2, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities. This mercenary excels at dealing damage while maintaining solid survivability. The Gladiator can be equipped with powerful two-handed weapons and can specialize in skills that boost damage output while improving defense through block and evasion mechanics. This makes the Gladiator ideal for players looking for a balanced mercenary who can both dish out damage and hold their ground.

2. The Templar Mercenary The Templar mercenary offers a more defensive option, with a focus on tanking and crowd control. This mercenary can be equipped with shields and heavy armor, providing the protection your character needs while they focus on offense. The Templar’s ability to provide buffs and debuffs also makes them an essential asset in tougher battles, especially in high-end content where survivability is paramount.

3. The Ranger Mercenary The Ranger mercenary specializes in ranged combat, making it an excellent choice for players who prefer to attack from a distance. These mercenaries often come equipped with bows or crossbows and can be highly effective when combined with skills that deal damage over time or debuff enemies. While they are not as tanky as other mercenaries, their ability to deal consistent damage from a safe distance can turn the tide of battle in your favor.

Selecting the Right Gear

Just like with your character, the gear you equip your mercenary with is crucial to their performance. Here are some general recommendations for optimizing your mercenary’s gear in PoE 2:

• Weapons and Armor: Select high-damage weapons for mercenaries who focus on offense, such as bows for Rangers or two-handed weapons for Gladiators. For defensive mercenaries, opt for heavy armor and shields that enhance survivability.

• Jewels and Enhancements: Equip your mercenary with jewels that enhance their primary skills. For example, increase health regeneration for tanking mercenaries or critical strike chance for offensive ones.

• Flasks: Just like players, mercenaries can benefit from flasks. Choose flasks that provide life regeneration, damage reduction, or elemental resistance based on the mercenary's role in your team.

Optimizing Mercenary Skills

Each mercenary class in PoE 2 has access to a range of skills. Here are some of the best skills to focus on when building a mercenary:

• Offensive Skills: These include various attacks that boost the mercenary's damage output. Consider skills that scale with attack speed or critical damage for a Gladiator mercenary. For Rangers, look for skills that apply elemental damage over time.

• Defensive Skills: Mercenaries like the Templar benefit greatly from defensive skills that boost their armor, block chance, or evasion. Skills that provide life regeneration or recovery upon hit are also excellent for tanking mercenaries.

• Utility Skills: Some mercenaries have utility skills that apply buffs or debuffs to enemies. These can include damage mitigation for your character or elemental resistance for enemies, making these mercenaries perfect for harder content.

Using PoE 2 Currency to Enhance Your Mercenary Build

Building a strong mercenary in PoE 2 often requires the use of PoE 2 currency. The game's economy revolves around trading and crafting, which means you will need a steady supply of currency to acquire high-quality gear, gems, and crafting materials for your mercenary.

Here are some tips for making the most of your PoE 2 currency:

• Trade for Specific Gear: If you don’t have the time to farm for specific items, trading with other players using PoE 2 currency can be an excellent option. Look for items that complement your mercenary’s role, whether it’s high-defense armor or a powerful weapon.

• Crafting: If you prefer crafting, use PoE 2 currency to buy crafting materials that can enhance your mercenary's gear. This might include crafting bases for high-tier weapons or accessories with additional bonuses.

• Invest in Mercenary Skill Gems: Don’t forget to invest in skill gems that enhance your mercenary’s abilities. The right gem can significantly improve your mercenary’s performance in battle, so make sure to equip them with the best available options.

Building a mercenary in PoE 2 is a rewarding experience that can significantly enhance your gameplay. By choosing the right class, optimizing your mercenary's gear, and investing in essential skills, you can create a powerful companion who supports your character in various ways. Additionally, making wise use of PoE 2 currency will ensure that your mercenary is always equipped with the best gear available. With the right strategy and preparation, your mercenary will become an indispensable part of your team, helping you conquer the toughest challenges PoE 2 has to offer.