Patch 0.5 has brought major balance changes to Path of Exile 2, making class selection more important than ever. While every class is capable of clearing content with the right build, some offer a much smoother experience during the campaign and scale more naturally into endgame.
Instead of looking at damage alone, most players now evaluate classes based on several factors, including leveling speed, survivability, gear requirements, and endgame potential.
What Makes a Strong Starter?
A good league starter should do more than clear monsters quickly.
The best classes generally offer:
• Fast and comfortable campaign progression.
• Strong damage with minimal gear investment.
• Reliable survivability.
• Smooth transition into maps and endgame.
• Flexible build options as your character grows.
These qualities help reduce early frustration and make progression more consistent.
S-Tier: The Safest All-Around Choices
These classes combine excellent leveling with strong endgame performance.
1. Pathfinder
Pathfinder remains one of the strongest choices in Patch 0.5.
Its strengths include:
• Smooth leveling experience.
• Excellent survivability.
• Strong scaling into endgame.
• Low dependence on expensive gear.
Whether you’re pushing maps or farming bosses, Pathfinder performs well throughout the entire progression curve.
2. Oracle Druid
Oracle Druid is another standout class in the current patch.
Why players like it:
• Flexible damage options.
• Strong overall toolkit.
• Comfortable campaign experience.
• Effective in both mapping and boss encounters.
Its versatility makes it a popular choice for players who enjoy adapting their build as they progress.
A-Tier: Powerful with the Right Build
These classes may require a little more planning, but they’re fully capable of completing endgame content.
1. Deadeye
Deadeye remains an excellent option for players who enjoy ranged combat.
Key strengths include:
• Fast map clearing.
• High mobility.
• Strong projectile scaling.
2. Lich
Lich continues to be a solid spellcaster.
Highlights include:
• High spell damage potential.
• Strong scaling into late game.
• Flexible build possibilities.
3. Blood Mage
Blood Mage rewards careful resource management.
Its advantages include:
• Powerful spell-based gameplay.
• Good sustain.
• Strong damage once properly developed.
4. Titan
Titan offers a durable melee playstyle with excellent survivability, making it appealing to players who prefer close-range combat.
5. Witch Hunter
Witch Hunter can become extremely effective when built correctly, especially for players who enjoy carefully optimizing their gear and passive tree.
B-Tier: Strong but More Specialized
These classes aren’t weak—they simply require more planning or experience to reach their full potential.
Current mid-tier options include:
• Warbringer
• Shaman
• Infernalist
• Invoker
These classes often shine in specific builds rather than serving as universal league starters.
Players willing to experiment may find some of the most enjoyable playstyles here.
Lower-Tier Classes Aren’t Bad
A lower placement doesn’t mean a class is unplayable.
In many cases, these classes simply:
• Need stronger equipment.
• Require better game knowledge.
• Depend on specific Ascendancies or unique items.
• Take longer to reach their full potential.
Experienced players can still achieve excellent results with these classes, especially after refining their builds.
How to Choose Your First Character
If you’re starting a fresh league, consider more than just tier rankings.
Ask yourself:
• Do you prefer melee or ranged combat?
• Do you enjoy spellcasting or weapon-based builds?
• Are you looking for fast mapping or boss farming?
• How much time do you want to invest in gearing?
Picking a class that matches your preferred playstyle is often more important than choosing the highest-ranked option.
Rather than focusing only on tier lists, use them as a starting point. The best class is one that feels enjoyable to level, matches your preferred playstyle, and gives you room to grow as you explore everything PoE 2’s endgame has to offer.
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