Indeed, a class archetype, Path of Exile’s Shadow, derives from the crafty, stealthy spell user. Yet, it’s not exactly a familiar archetype; in fact, there’s no specific name for it. If the hack-and-slash dungeon crawler were as big as Diablo, it would codify the trope.
Such a shame that it’s not, but we’re not here to talk about that. Instead, we’re here to teach players how to play as one of the most creative yet trickiest classes, not just in the game but also the entirety of the genre. With this, you’ll know which items to get from POE Trade.
Life and Resistances First
It might seem uncool or antithetical to go for the life nodes when you specifically chose the Shadow because of its affinity to stealth, guile, and mastery of magic, but you have to. It doesn’t boast of as much evasion as the Ranger, as much energy shield as the Witch, so you’re left with no choice but to pump up life unless you feel like you’re good enough not to get hit in later acts, where you can die in one hit.
Another stat you have to get a lot of early on is elemental resistance. This is true for any Path of Exile class, but it is more valid for the Shadow because of its vulnerability. Like what’s been said before, it doesn’t have the same defensive potential as the other two classes that are pure of both its attributes. Plus, unlike either the Witch or the Ranger, it is a close-range class in the early game.
On Skills and Weapons
What makes the Shadow class unique and powerful is its access to both Dexterity and Intelligence skill gems. This is undeniably a good thing, but this can be bad for players who cannot make up their minds, or worse, those who “commit” a bit too early to a particular skill, only to find out that it’s not for them later on.
Thus, it’s essential for Path of Exile Shadow players to check every skill they can get their hands on and then try them one by one until they find the one that fits them. This is also true when it comes to weapons. Before getting the nodes that bolster a particular weapon type’s attack power, try them all out first, especially before using PoE Currency.
Another way to make sure you don’t get anything you’ll regret later on is to check Path of Exile Shadow Builds, exceptionally viable ones. Because when you begin with the end in mind, you’re not going to mess up in the middle of the road.
No Shame with Shields
Speaking of weapons, it may be a great idea to NOT go for a dual-wielding build and instead use a shield. This is especially true for forms that are focused on casting spells and laying traps and mines.
Using a shield might not seem very Shadow-y, but if it gets the job done, then why not? After all, this is Path of Exile, where their gear or their skill gems do not define characters. If a Chieftain that wields a bow is not any less of a chieftain than those that do not, then the same goes with the Path of the Exile Shadow that bears a shield.
The King of Debuffing
As for skills, it’s recommended for the Shadow to utilize a debuff constantly. It doesn’t take a pro to realize that Path of Exile is one of those games that have made debuffing an effective way to whittle down your enemies, and thus giving players an incentive to use this type of skill.
While the Shadow can make good use of any debuff, it is highly recommended that they go for bleeding or poison, as their passive skills are geared for them compared to the many others.
The Next Step for the Path of Exile Shadow
Last but not least would be your choice in Ascendancy. Among the three, the safest option is the Trickster, as this one is focused on dealing damage over time. This kind of gameplay isn’t traditionally popular, but the Trickster has made it so because of the sheer hurt it delivers. On top of that, it’s constantly ranked as one of the best Ascendancies in the game.
On the other hand, if you’re into traps and mines, Saboteur is your best bet. Unlike the Trickster’s straightforwardness, its selling point is the novelty of its play style. Those that want to focus on dealing with critical hits should try out the Assassin.
The Path of Exile Shadow isn’t for everyone. But for those that fall in love with the Shadow, there is perhaps no better exile. Don’t be intimated; follow these tips, and you’ll be a skilled and stealthy Wraeclast operative.