Galvanic Shards Witch Hunter Build Guide for Path of Exile 2
Galvanic Shards is one of the strongest map-clearing skills in Path of Exile 2. Early in the game's Early Access period, many Mercenary class players praised its effectiveness in clearing the campaign. It excels at demolishing groups of enemies with minimal effort, thanks to its ability to hit multiple targets at once.
Galvanic Shards is a lightning-based attack skill that converts 40% of physical damage to lightning damage. Its unique ability to hit single targets multiple times makes it surprisingly effective against rare enemies when properly geared. However, its single-target damage against bosses is lacking. To counter this, this build also utilizes Shockburst Rounds, a rapid-fire attack skill that deals significant damage to shocked enemies.
There are two main variations of this build, but this guide focuses on the one that incorporates Stormcaller Arrow. This skill helps inflict Shock on enemies quickly, setting them up for massive damage from Shockburst Rounds.
This build is perfect for those who want a character that can both clear maps efficiently and handle boss fights on a modest budget. The Witch Hunter ascendancy is often overshadowed by the Gemling Legionnaire, but it provides powerful nodes that enhance both damage and survivability.
Ascendancy Choices
While the Gemling Legionnaire is more popular, we opt for the Witch Hunter for its deadly precision and unique utility. Here are the key ascendancy nodes to take:
1. Zealous Inquisition – Grants a chance to make enemies explode, dealing physical damage to surrounding enemies. Excellent for clearing.
2. Pitiless Killer – Instantly kills rare enemies when they drop below 10% health, making it invaluable for high-tier mapping.
3. Obsessive Rituals – Provides Ward, a barrier that absorbs elemental damage from hits, adding a defensive layer.
4. Judge, Jury, and Executioner OR Ceremonial Ablution – Decimating Strike takes a huge chunk of an enemy’s life on the first hit instead of the last, making it great for boss fights. Alternatively, Ceremonial Ablution enhances Sorcery Ward.
Recommended Gear Stats
When choosing gear, prioritize the following stats:
· Increased Physical Damage
· Adds Physical Damage
· Adds Physical/Cold Damage to Attacks
· Increased Elemental Damage with Attacks
· Increased Attack Speed
o to Level of All Projectile Skills
· Gain Mana per Enemy Killed
· Increased Armor/Evasion
o to Maximum Life
Playstyle
The Galvanic Shards Witch Hunter has a straightforward playstyle:
1. Use Galvanic Shards for clearing mobs.
2. Against tougher enemies, apply Shock with Stormcaller Arrow before switching to Shockburst Rounds for maximum damage.
3. For bosses, use Stormcaller Arrow to apply Shock, then spam Shockburst Rounds for high burst damage.
4. Utilize Ripwire Ballista to slow enemies and control large packs.
5. Herald of Thunder passively activates while using Galvanic Shards, ensuring consistent bonus damage.
6. Voltaic Grenade helps keep enemies in place and enhances Shock application.
7. Use Emergency Reload before running out of ammo in Shockburst Rounds.
Gear Recommendations
Weapon
Use an Expert Forlorn Crossbow for its high physical damage, paired with stats like increased physical damage, elemental damage, and attack speed. In the late game, prioritize a crossbow with + to Level of All Projectile Skills and Gain Mana per Enemy Killed to sustain mana efficiently.
Alternate Weapon
For Stormcaller Arrow, equip an Expert Shortbow instead of the Expert Dualstring Bow, as it has a higher attack speed. This allows for faster application of Shock against bosses. Pair it with a Primed Quiver that provides attack speed, projectile speed, and accuracy rating.
Body Armor
Opt for pure evasion armor instead of hybrid armor/evasion gear. This maximizes survivability and provides more effective defenses against physical attacks.
The Galvanic Shards Witch Hunter is a powerful, well-rounded build that is expected to rise in prominence once again in Patch 0.2.0. With the right investment in gear and smart skill usage, it can effectively clear maps and handle bosses without breaking the bank. If you need PoE 2 Divine Orbs or other key currency items, check out our PoE 2 trade Store for exclusive deals on all essential currencies!
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