Path of Exile 2: Top 6 League Starter Builds for Patch 0.3

Path of Exile 2: Top 6 League Starter Builds for Patch 0.3

Updated: August 26,2025 | Game: POE 2
Path of Exile 2: Top 6 League Starter Builds for Patch 0.3

Best league starter builds to try in Path of Exile 2

As Path of Exile 2 gears up for its inaugural league, Rise of the Abyssal, slated for August 29, 2025, players might find themselves daunted by the plethora of new builds and adjustments introduced in patch 0.3. Grinding Gear Games is committed to providing a balanced gameplay experience that encourages the exploration of diverse builds while buffing existing skills and introducing new enticing options.

This patch focuses on empowering underpowered builds rather than nerfing the potent ones. Consequently, players have a rich variety of league starter builds available. Below is a curated list of six strong league starter builds that have emerged following the notable changes in the patch.

1) Ancestral Cry Warrior

The Ancestral Cry Warrior utilizes new fire-centric skill gems introduced in patch 0.3, namely Forge Hammer and Ancestral Cry. The former enables players to launch a flaming hammer at foes, dealing damage in a small area of effect (AoE) and igniting them upon impact. Activating this ability a second time recalls the hammer.

However, the true power of this build lies in combining it with Warcries. When the hammer is stationed on the ground, triggering a Warcry causes it to explode, creating volcanic fissures that amplify damage across a broader area. Additionally, Ancestral Cry augments this setup by granting 'Glory' through ignition. When activated, attacks become Ancestrally Boosted, and moving over fissures activates their damage effect automatically.

2) Hollow Palm Monk

The Hollow Palm Monk introduces an exciting avenue for players who enjoy melee combat. With the new Keystone named Hollow Palm Technique, players can unleash powerful Quarterstaff attacks barehanded while receiving additional benefits. This build takes advantage of the upgrades to both the Acolyte of Chayula and the Invoker Ascendancies.

While the Acolyte focuses on chaos damage, Invoker emphasizes elemental prowess, making them suitable for varied gameplay styles in this evolving landscape.

3) Lightning Arrow Deadeye

The Lightning Arrow remains a top choice for bow-based builds. No major alteration is slated for this skill; it maintains its strength within the Ranger class. However, modulations introduced to the Lightning Rod support skill may improve its effectiveness by enhancing the area of effect and increasing the likelihood of additional Burst damage.

Exciting tweaks to the Deadeye's Ascendancy passive skills, particularly the Avidity Notable passive, have resulted in a boost from a 30% to a 50% chance to gain additional Frenzy Charges, crafting a new layer of depth to this already powerful build.

4) Totem Warbringer

While totems have historically offered a slower gameplay style, the Warbringer brings an exhilarating twist. The latest patch facilitates the creation of a powerful totem army, enabling increased Endurance Charges without limiting the number of Ancestral Warrior Totems summoned. Summoning a totem now requires three charges, which might seem hefty, but new supporting gems will generate these charges more effortlessly.

Notably, totems will now share the stats of the player's equipped weapon, enhancing the overall power of the build significantly while each totem can raise an Ancestral Spirit, contributing to greater attack speed.

5) Minion Army Witch

As always, commanding a legion of minions provides players a comfortable lead into the league. The latest patch optimizes the Spirit costs for various Specter types and bolsters the damage output across multiple minion options.

Noteworthy enhancements have been directed at the Summoner's Ascendancy options, particularly the Infernalist and the Lich. Players can now enjoy mitigating damage or harnessing Energy Shields, respectively, while more easily assembling their army with improved functionalities.

6) Elemental Overload Stormweaver

The Elemental Overload Stormweaver embarks on a new journey in elemental combinations. With the Elemental Infusion mechanics being refined significantly, players can explore elemental synergies previously impossible. The return of the Tempest Caller passive now features reduced cooldowns, coupled with a revamped skill called Rain Dancer.

This build excels at leveraging multiple elemental sources to unleash devastating damage combinations, making it an ideal option for players who wish to adapt dynamically in this ever-evolving gameplay environment.

In conclusion, these six strong league starter builds are just a glimpse into the expansive possibilities in Path of Exile 2. Whether you prefer choosing a **totem-based setup** or command a powerful **minion army**, the game offers diversity that caters to all gameplay styles. For players looking to enhance their setup with quality currency, be sure to check out currency options on ItemD2R for the best deals as you embark on this new adventure.