Path of Exile 2: Guide to Efficient Mercenary Progression

This guide details effective leveling strategies for the Mercenary class in Path of Exile 2. Mercenaries, while straightforward, benefit from strategic skill and item choices to maximize efficiency.

Optimal Skills and Support Gems for Leveling

Early-game success hinges on utilizing Fragmentation Shot (effective close-range, multi-target damage, boosted by stun support gems) and Permafrost Shot (rapid freezing for increased Fragmentation Shot damage).

As you progress, Grenades become central to your 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

Explosive Shot detonates Gas and Explosive Grenades for massive AoE damage. Ripwire Ballista provides a distraction, while Glacial Bolt controls enemy crowds. Consider swapping Glacial Bolt for Oil Grenade against bosses. Galvanic Shards offers a low-risk crowd control alternative to Grenade setups. Herald of Ash triggers ignite on enemy deaths. Use available Level 1 or 2 support gems until you obtain the recommended ones. Utilize Lesser Jeweller's Orbs to add support gem sockets to key skills.

Essential Passive Skill Tree Nodes

Prioritize Cluster Bombs (increased grenade projectiles), Repeating Explosives (chance for double explosions), and Iron Reflexes (Evasion to Armor conversion, mitigating Sorcery Ward's downside). Also seek out nodes boosting cooldown reduction, projectile/grenade damage, and area of effect. While beneficial, Crossbow skills, Armor/Evasion nodes can be prioritized later based on your needs.

Itemization and Stat Priorities

Focus on upgrading your Crossbow first. Prioritize items with Dexterity, Strength, Armor, Evasion, elemental resistances (excluding Chaos), physical and elemental damage, Mana on Hit, and resistances. Movement speed and attack speed are beneficial but not crucial. A Bombard Crossbow significantly improves grenade projectile count.

This comprehensive approach ensures a smooth and powerful leveling experience for your Mercenary in Path of Exile 2.