Path of Exile 2 is packed with intricate mechanics, and one of the most exciting additions is the Combat Frenzy mechanic. This system introduces a new layer of strategy for combat builds, offering players the chance to unleash devastating power by stacking Frenzy Charges and utilizing their effects. For both veteran Path of Exile players and newcomers to the sequel, understanding how to get Combat Frenzy and how to maximize its effects is crucial for Poe 2 trade optimizing your character's performance in endgame content.
In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about Combat Frenzy, how to get it, and how to best utilize it for different playstyles.
What is Combat Frenzy in Path of Exile 2?
Combat Frenzy is a mechanic tied to Frenzy Charges, which have been a part of the Path of Exile series since the first game. Frenzy Charges provide a way for players to scale their damage, attack speed, and other stats as they accumulate these charges. In Path of Exile 2, the system is reworked and streamlined, making Frenzy Charges more integral to different playstyles and builds.
Combat Frenzy works by granting powerful buffs as you gain Frenzy Charges, and these buffs scale with the number of Frenzy Charges you have active. Frenzy Charges accumulate by performing attacks, and once you reach a certain threshold, you unlock Combat Frenzy, a mode that enhances your combat effectiveness.
How to Get Combat Frenzy: Gaining Frenzy Charges
Frenzy Charges are acquired primarily through combat, though specific mechanics and passives allow you to generate them. Here's a breakdown of the most common ways to gain Frenzy Charges in Path of Exile 2:
1. Passive Skill Tree Nodes
The Passive Skill Tree has several nodes that provide increased Frenzy Charge generation or flat Frenzy Charges. These nodes are typically focused on attack-based builds or specific ascendency classes. Here's what to look for:
Frenzy Charge Nodes: These nodes directly grant Frenzy Charges. They can be found scattered across the tree, especially near DPS-focused clusters like the Duelist, Ranger, or Shadow sections.
Frenzy Charge Generation: Some passive nodes don't directly grant charges but instead increase your ability to generate them. This is particularly useful for builds that rely on consistent attack speed.
Frenzy Charge Duration: Some nodes or specific ascension paths increase how long Frenzy Charges last, allowing for a longer duration of enhanced effects.
2. Ascendancy Classes
Ascendancy classes in Path of Exile 2 are part of the path to specialization, and they can play a major role in how Frenzy Charges are obtained and used. Here are a few Ascendancy options that offer specialized Frenzy Charge synergies:
Raider: The Raider Ascendancy (available to the Ranger) is perhaps one of the best Ascendancy choices for Frenzy-based builds. Its Way of the Poacher notable passive grants Frenzy Charges and increases the damage of attacks per charge, making it a go-to choice for melee and bow builds that stack Frenzy Charges.
Slayer: The Slayer Ascendancy is focused on sustained damage and leeching life. One of its notable passives, Brutal Fervor, grants you Frenzy Charges on kill and boosts damage per Frenzy Charge.
Assassin: The Assassin (available to the Shadow) benefits from Frenzy Charge generation with passives like Ambush and Assassinate. This ascendancy increases your critical strike chance with Frenzy Charges, ideal for crit-heavy builds.
3. Skills and Support Gems
In addition to the passive skill tree and Ascendancy classes, skill gems and support gems also provide ways to generate Frenzy Charges. These skills and supports are typically used to enhance your Frenzy Charge management or increase the efficiency of your Combat Frenzy.
Frenzy-Related Active Skills:
Frenzy: This skill is one of the most direct ways to generate Frenzy Charges. It grants 1 Frenzy Charge on activation and increases your attack speed for each Frenzy Charge you have. It's a great skill to stack Frenzy Charges quickly and is essential for many Frenzy-based builds.
Vaal Frenzy: Similar to the regular Frenzy skill, but with the added bonus of buy POE 2 Orbs Vaal Charges, making it a powerful burst ability. It's great for dealing massive damage quickly while you stack Frenzy Charges.
Frenzy-Related Support Gems:
Frenzy Charge On Hit Support: This support gem grants Frenzy Charges whenever you land a hit, making it a valuable tool for builds focused on fast attacks.
Charge Infusion Support: This support gem not only boosts damage per Frenzy Charge but also improves your charge generation, making it a great complement to Combat Frenzy builds.