Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be one of the most expansive and intricate ARPGs in recent memory. With its monstrous passive skill tree and deep class customization, players can sculpt their characters with remarkable precision. At the heart of this customization lies the Ascendancy system, which allows players to unlock subclass-specific abilities. To tap into the full potential of your chosen path, you'll need to earn Ascendancy Points—and just like POE 2 Currency, these are incredibly valuable and not handed out easily.

Let's break down what Ascendancy Points are, how to get them, and why they're a key part of your journey across Wraeclast.

What Are Ascendancy Classes and Points

Every one of the seven base classes in Path of Exile 2 can branch into two different Ascendancy subclasses. These subclasses don't just give you passive stat increases—they significantly shape your gameplay and identity.

For example:

    Witch players can become a Blood Mage or Infernalist

    Warrior players can evolve into a Titan or Warbringer

    Sorceress can pick between Chronomancer and Stormweaver

These Ascendancy paths give you powerful new skills, mechanics, and passive boosts. But to unlock their full power, you'll need Ascendancy Points—special rewards earned by proving your strength in Trials.

Just like farming POE 2 Currency, earning Ascendancy Points requires time, effort, and mastery.

How to Get Ascendancy Points in Path of Exile 2

1. Trial of Sekhemas (Act 2)

The first way to earn Ascendancy Points is by clearing the Trial of Sekhemas, a unique dungeon that tests both your survival and combat skills. The dungeon is full of enemies, with a final boss waiting at the end.

Here's the catch: your Honor bar decreases every time you take damage. The more Honor you retain by the end of the trial, the better your rewards. If you complete the trial for the first time, you'll earn 2 Ascendancy Points.

This is where efficient build planning comes into play. Just like optimizing for POE 2 Currency farming, minimizing damage taken during this trial boosts your overall value from the run.

2. Trial of Chaos (Act 3)

Next up is the Trial of Chaos, another grueling dungeon that becomes available in Act 3. The mechanics differ, but the stakes are similar: survival and precision. Clear this trial for the first time, and you'll receive another 2 Ascendancy Points.

At this stage, you'll be sitting on 4 Points, which already unlocks major enhancements to your Ascendancy path.

How to Get More Ascendancy Points

Unlike other games that limit subclass progression, Path of Exile 2 opens more doors if you're willing to rise to the challenge. Once you beat the game once, you can restart it in Cruel difficulty. Here's the exciting part—your character retains all stats, gear, and POE 2 Currency, but enemies become significantly stronger.

In this mode, you can complete the Trial of Sekhemas and Trial of Chaos again. Doing so will reward you with an additional 4 Ascendancy Points, bringing your total to 8.

This encourages replayability and rewards high-skill players who are committed to perfecting their builds and maximizing their efficiency. It also mirrors the grind often associated with POE 2 Currency farming—those who push deeper into harder content come out richer, stronger, and more capable.

Why Ascendancy Points Matter

In Path of Exile 2, progression isn't just about gear. It's about specialization. Ascendancy Points directly translate to unique passive abilities and exclusive traits that only your subclass can access. That means every point earned offers exponential power gains.

Pair that with the grind for POE 2 Currency—orbs, shards, and crafting POE 2 items—and you'll quickly realize that both systems reward players who think long-term. Just as you'd plan your farming route to maximize currency drops, you should plan your Ascendancy progression to ensure you're ready for higher-level content and PvP encounters.

Tips for Maximizing Ascendancy Point Farming

If you're looking to farm Ascendancy Points efficiently (while still racking up POE 2 Currency), here are a few tips:

    Prepare Before Trials: Ensure your build is mobile, defensively sound, and equipped with gear optimized through crafting and trading. Don't hesitate to spend some of your POE 2 Currency to upgrade gear before trials.

    Study Trial Mechanics: Much like bosses and maps, each Trial has unique hazards. Watch guides or practice in normal difficulty to master them before your Cruel run.

    Pair with Currency Runs: Some trial dungeons drop decent loot. Combine Ascendancy farming with currency farming routes for double efficiency.

Play in Groups: Coordinated groups can clear Trials faster and safer, especially helpful in Cruel difficulty where mistakes are more punishing.

Final Thoughts

In the vast and brutal world of Path of Exile 2, power comes in many forms. Some hoard wealth in the form of rare items and POE 2 Currency, while others chase perfection through finely tuned skill trees and subclass synergies. Ascendancy Points are a bridge between both worlds—a way to increase your power that requires careful planning and strategic effort.

Whether you're a new exile or a veteran returning for the sequel, mastering your Ascendancy and farming POE 2 Currency go hand-in-hand. Together, they form the core loop of what makes Path of Exile 2 such a satisfying, rewarding grind.

So gear up, enter the Trials, and let your Ascendancy path guide you to greatness.

MMOexp POE 2 Team