New Guide: Level Mercenaries Fast in Path of Exile 2

This guide simplifies Mercenary leveling in Path of Exile 2, highlighting efficient strategies for reaching the endgame. While some classes struggle, the Mercenary's versatility shines, provided you utilize its strengths effectively.

Mastering Mercenary Leveling: Skills and Gems

Early leveling relies on Fragmentation Shot (close-range, multi-target) and Permafrost Shot (freeze for added damage). However, the true power unlocks with Grenades.

The core of the build centers around these skills and support gems:

Gas Grenade poisons, Explosive Grenades explode after a delay (or detonation), and Explosive Shot detonates both for massive AoE damage. Ripwire Ballista provides a distraction, while Glacial Bolt helps control crowds. Oil Grenade is situational, often outclassed by Gas Grenade except against bosses. Galvanic Shards excels at clearing weaker enemies. Herald of Ash ignites nearby enemies upon overkill. Use available support gems until you acquire the recommended ones. A Lesser Jeweller's Orb is key for adding gem sockets to your core Grenade skills.

Essential Passive Skill Tree Nodes

Prioritize these passive skills: Cluster Bombs (adds projectiles), Repeating Explosives (chance for double explosions), and Iron Reflexes (converts Evasion to Armor, mitigating Sorcery Ward's drawback). Iron Reflexes should be acquired after reaching the edge of the skill tree. Other crucial nodes include Cooldown Reduction, Projectile/Grenade Damage, and Area of Effect. Crossbow skills and Armor/Evasion nodes are secondary, prioritized only if needed.

Gear and Stat Priorities

Prioritize upgrading your Crossbow first. Focus on gear with Dexterity, Strength, Armor, Evasion, Elemental Resistances (excluding Chaos), Physical/Elemental Damage, Mana on Hit, and Resistances. Rarity, Movement Speed, and Attack Speed are beneficial but not critical. A Bombard Crossbow is highly recommended for its extra projectile.

This streamlined approach ensures efficient leveling and a smooth transition to the endgame. Remember to adapt the build based on available items and support gems.