Path of Exile 2: Spirit Walker and Martial Artist Ascendancy Guide — Patch 0.5
Spirit Walker and Martial Artist are the first new Ascendancies in PoE 2 since Early Access launched. Both unlock fundamentally new playstyles.
Spirit Walker — an aura-driven spirit master. Martial Artist — a combo expert whose final strikes devastate bosses.
In Patch 0.5.0 'Return of the Ancients,' Grinding Gear Games added two new Ascendancy classes. Spirit Walker is built around spirit manipulation, Martial Artist is a melee combat master. Here's a detailed breakdown of each.
Spirit Walker: Overview
Spirit Walker specializes in the "spiritual" aspects of the character — interacting with spirit and absorption mechanics. Key features:
- Spirit Zones: creates auras and zones that deal damage or apply effects to allies and enemies.
- Absorption: passives allow converting a portion of incoming damage into a resource that empowers spells.
- DoT Synergies: many nodes amplify damage over time (fire, poison, chaos).
Best Synergies: aura summoner builds, DoT builds with poison or fire, Sorceress and Witch.
Martial Artist: Overview
Martial Artist is a melee combat master with a combo system. Key features:
- Combo Chains: each strike accumulates combo stacks; the final strike in a chain receives a significant damage bonus.
- Strike Attack Buff: passives increase base strike damage and add effects like stun and knockback.
- Resilience: some nodes provide resistance and damage mitigation through active parries.
Best Synergies: strike Warriors and Rangers, blade Mercs, any two-handed or dual one-handed weapon builds.
Which to Choose for League Start?
If planning your first run on a new Ascendancy:
- Spirit Walker — for fans of ranged and aura playstyle. Easier to learn, less demanding on positioning.
- Martial Artist — for melee fans. Requires understanding combo timing, but highly effective once mastered.