Path of Exile 2: Mercenary Leveling Guide

This Path of Exile 2 guide streamlines Mercenary leveling, a class known for its straightforward progression. While some classes struggle with enemy hordes or require close-quarters combat, the Mercenary's versatile toolkit handles diverse combat scenarios. However, maximizing efficiency requires strategic skill and item choices. This guide outlines optimal skill gems, support gems, passive skill tree nodes, and item modifiers for a smooth journey to the endgame.

Optimal Skills and Support Gems for Mercenary Leveling

Early leveling can feel slow until you transition to a grenade-focused build. Initially, rely on Fragmentation Shot (effective close-range, single or multiple targets, boosted by stun support gems) and Permafrost Shot (rapid freezing, amplifying Fragmentation Shot damage).

Unlocking powerful grenades (Explosive, Gas) and Explosive Shot dramatically alters gameplay.

Core Mercenary Leveling Skills	Useful Support Gems
	Ignition, Magnified Effect, Pierce
	Scattershot, Fire Penetration, Inspiration
	Ruthless
	Fire Infusion, Primal Armament, Magnified Effect
	Ignition, Magnified Effect
	Overpower
	Lightning Infusion, Pierce
	Fortress
	Clarity, Vitality

Gas Grenade poisons widely, detonatable with a Detonation skill. Explosive Grenades self-detonate or via a Detonator skill. Explosive Shot detonates grenades for massive AoE damage. Ripwire Ballista provides distraction, while Glacial Bolt controls hordes (replace Permafrost Shot). Oil Grenade (less effective than Gas Grenade except against bosses – swap with Glacial Bolt as needed). Galvanic Shards clears hordes efficiently (replace Fragmentation Shot). Herald of Ash ignites nearby enemies on kill. Use available Level 1-2 support gems until obtaining the recommended ones; add support gem sockets to key skills using Lesser Jeweller's Orbs.

Prioritized Passive Skill Tree Nodes

Focus on Cluster Bombs (adds projectiles), Repeating Explosives (chance for double explosions), and Iron Reflexes (converts evasion to armor, mitigating Sorcery Ward's armor/evasion penalty). Also prioritize Cooldown Reduction, Projectile & Grenade Damage, and Area of Effect. Crossbow skills, armor/evasion nodes are secondary, prioritized only if needed.

Recommended Items and Stat Priorities

Prioritize crossbow upgrades for significant power increases. Focus on gear with Dexterity, Strength, Armor, Evasion, Elemental Resistances (excluding Chaos), Physical/Elemental Damage, Mana on Hit, and Resistances. Rarity of Items, Movement Speed, and Attack Speed are beneficial but not essential. A Bombard Crossbow significantly enhances grenade projectiles.