The Ultimate Tier List of Path of Exile Starter Classes for 2024: Dominating the Atlas from the Get-Go

In the realm of Path of Exile, the choice of your starter class sets the tone for your entire adventure. It influences your playstyle, the skills you can harness, and ultimately your chances of conquering the Atlas. As we approach the launch of Path of Exile 2 in 2024, let's delve into a comprehensive tier list that will empower you to make an informed decision.

Tier S: Unstoppable Force

1. Witch

The Witch is a master of elemental destruction and arcane secrets. She boasts unparalleled versatility, allowing her to adapt to any situation. With access to powerful spells like Fireball, Ice Nova, and Lightning Tendrils, she can obliterate foes from a distance or engage in close-quarters combat with the Witchfire Brew. Her intelligence-based attributes grant her significant mana regeneration and spell power, making her an ideal choice for aspiring mages.

2. Marauder

No one embodies brute force like the Marauder. This melee specialist excels in close-range combat, wielding axes, maces, and two-handed swords with devastating effect. His ancestral totem skills provide defensive capabilities and damage buffs, granting him unparalleled survivability on the battlefield. The Marauder's strength-based attributes boost his life pool and physical damage, turning him into a force to be reckoned with.

Tier A: Versatile Performers

1. Ranger

The Ranger's agility and dexterity make her a formidable ranged attacker. Using bows, daggers, and swords, she can strike from afar with deadly precision. Her evasion-based defenses allow her to dodge incoming attacks with grace, and her animal companion provides additional support and damage potential. The Ranger's intelligence-based attributes grant her significant energy shield and accuracy, making her an excellent choice for hunters and archers.

2. Shadow

The Shadow is an elusive assassin, relying on stealth and cunning to dispatch his enemies. His ability to use claws, daggers, and bows grants him a versatile playstyle. The Shadow's evasion-based defenses and dodge mechanics make him incredibly hard to hit, and his poison skills inflict debilitating effects on his foes. His intelligence-based attributes enhance his mana regeneration and critical strike chance, making him a lethal menace.

Tier B: Balanced Contenders

1. Templar

The Templar combines defensive prowess with offensive power. He wields swords, maces, and shields with equal skill, providing both protection and damage. His strength-based attributes grant him a large life pool and physical damage, while his intelligence-based attributes boost his mana regeneration and spell power. The Templar's enduring cry skill provides him with significant survivability, making him a reliable choice for beginners.

2. Duelist

The Duelist is a master of swordsmanship and agility. With the ability to wield one-handed swords, rapiers, and bows, he can engage in melee combat or ranged attacks. The Duelist's evasion-based defenses and dodge mechanics allow him to maneuver around enemies with ease, and his bleeding skills inflict sustained damage over time. His dexterity-based attributes boost his evasion and attack speed, making him a swift and precise warrior.

Tier C: Niche Specialists

1. Scion

The Scion is a unique class that allows you to mix and match skills from multiple ascendancy classes. This versatility grants her access to a wide range of abilities, but it also comes with a lack of focus and synergy. The Scion's attributes are evenly distributed, providing her with a balanced base for experimentation. However, this can make it difficult to optimize her build compared to more specialized classes.

2. Ascendant

The Ascendant is a subclass of the Scion that offers a unique combination of ascendancy skills. However, the Ascendant suffers from the same lack of focus as the Scion. While it grants access to powerful skills, it can be challenging to optimize a build that takes full advantage of its potential. The Ascendant's attributes are also evenly distributed, making it difficult to specialize in any particular area.

Effective Strategies

When selecting a starter class, consider your preferred playstyle and goals:

• Melee: Marauder, Templar, and Duelist excel in close-range combat.
• Ranged: Witch, Ranger, and Shadow offer potent ranged attacks.
• Defensive: Marauder, Templar, and Scion possess strong defensive capabilities.
• Versatile: Witch, Ranger, and Shadow can adapt to different situations.

Tips and Tricks

• Focus on your ascendancy: Each class has access to powerful ascendancy skills that can greatly enhance your build.
• Choose gear that complements your build: Pay attention to the stats and modifiers on items to maximize your damage and survivability.
• Don't be afraid to experiment: Path of Exile offers a vast array of skills and items, so don't hesitate to try different combinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a class that doesn't align with your playstyle: Don't force yourself to play a class that you find unenjoyable.
• Neglecting your defenses: Survivability is crucial, so invest in skills and gear that provide protection.
• Hoarding currency: Use your currency to purchase better items and upgrade your skills regularly.

Call to Action

As the countdown to Path of Exile 2 approaches, it's time to embrace the challenge of choosing the perfect starter class. Whether you prefer elemental destruction, brutal melee combat, ranged precision, or elusive stealth, this tier list will guide you towards the path that aligns with your aspirations. Remember, true mastery in Path of Exile lies in not only conquering the Atlas but in doing so with the class that brings you the most joy and fulfillment.