The debate over the best solo class in Path of Exile 2 rages on, with many players arguing that it’s not necessarily the one at the top of the meta, but rather the one that brings you the most enjoyment. While that may hold some truth, certain builds stand out as more viable than others right from the start, capable of tackling all the end-game challenges that Wraeclast has to offer. On the flip side, some classes, like the Warrior, might seem entertaining as you charge into battle, but struggle in the later stages of the game due to the dominance of melee-resistant enemies and bosses. Amidst this diverse array of choices, one class consistently rises to the top as a strong contender for solo play—the Witch.
The Witch: A Minion Master
Choosing the Witch as the best solo class may initially seem like taking the easy way out, especially when you opt for a Minion build that surrounds you with skeletal warriors, mages, and zombies to do your bidding. This strategic approach allows you to clear zones without exposing your character to direct harm—a lesson I learned the hard way after numerous failed attempts at using magic to overpower my enemies. It’s a humbling experience to realize that sometimes, simplicity is key when it comes to survival in the harsh world of Path of Exile.
One of the core reasons why the Witch continues to be a favorite among players, apart from its strong minion builds, is its accessibility and user-friendly mechanics. This class is known for its straightforward playstyle, efficiency in combat, and ease of mastery. Armed with an arsenal of debuffs to weaken opponents, powerful spells for direct damage, and a legion of minions to bolster your forces, the Witch effortlessly navigates through challenges, especially as you expand your summoning capabilities. It’s a class that strikes a balance between power and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for solo players seeking a smooth gameplay experience.
The Mercenary: A Fresh Face in the Fray
For those looking to embrace a new challenge in Path of Exile 2, the Mercenary emerges as a compelling alternative to the tried-and-true Witch. This versatile class introduces unique gameplay elements, such as wielding a crossbow that doubles as a shotgun, unleashing explosive rounds, hurling far-reaching grenades, and summoning devastating ballista spawns to rain havoc on distant foes. While the Mercenary offers a refreshing change of pace, it comes with its own set of drawbacks that can pose challenges for solo adventurers.
Despite its innovative weaponry and explosive abilities, the Mercenary’s movement and animations can feel sluggish and unwieldy, particularly in high-stakes boss battles. I vividly recall the frustration of facing off against Geonor, grappling with the Mercenary’s slower pace and limited mobility as I struggled to gain the upper hand. However, the class’s arsenal of explosive and fire-based attacks, including grenades, poison projectiles, and rapid-fire skills, ultimately proved to be the key to overcoming formidable foes like the Mad Wolf and his relentless pack of minions.
In conclusion, the Mercenary shines as a top contender for solo play due to its ability to unleash widespread damage in sweeping arcs and area-of-effect zones, making it a force to be reckoned with in crowded encounters. While its single-target damage may fall short in comparison to other classes, the Mercenary’s explosive prowess and strategic versatility offer a unique gameplay experience for those willing to embrace its challenges.
If you’re eager to embark on your solo adventure in Path of Exile 2, Early Access is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows via Steam, with a full free-to-play launch slated for 2025. With a diverse array of classes to choose from and a wealth of gameplay options to explore, the world of Wraeclast awaits your exploration and conquest.
