Well Rounded Beast - Trickster Hexblast Mines - 3.25 League Start Guide

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on the Trickster Hexblast Mines build for the 3.25 League in Path of Exile. This build is known for its versatility, effectiveness in various content, and ease of play. This guide will cover the necessary steps for leveling, transitioning to Hexblast, and optimizing your endgame setup.

Chapter 1: Understanding Hexblast

• Hexblast Overview

  • It deals chaos damage but is resisted by the lowest resistance of the enemy, typically elemental resistances.
  • It can ignite, freeze, and shock enemies, which enhances both survivability and damage.
  • Hexblast has a base cast time of one second, but using mines allows you to bypass this limitation.

• Key Mechanics

  • Ensure enemies are hexed for maximum damage output.
  • Use skills like Blasphemy or Profane Proxy to apply hexes effectively.
  • Mines have the same throwing speed, making cast time irrelevant.

Chapter 2: Choosing the Trickster Ascendancy

• Why Trickster

  • Provides excellent action and throwing speed, enhancing gameplay.
  • Offers strong defenses through the Spellbreaker node.
  • Capable of handling all types of content, including mapping and bossing.

• Comparative Analysis

  • While other ascendancies like Pathfinder and Assassin can be strong, Trickster is well-rounded and easier to manage early on.

Chapter 3: Leveling the Build

• Leveling Strategies

  • Start with Storm Blast Mine and transition to Power Class Mine for damage.
  • Optionally, use Rolling Magma for early-game leveling.
  • You can switch to Hexblast once you obtain Dread Arc and complete the Library quest.

• Tips for Leveling

  • Focus on campaign progression primarily with Power Class.
  • Plan to use Hexblast once you're more established in the game to avoid difficulties during the early stages.

Chapter 4: Transitioning to Hexblast

• Requirements for Hexblast Setup

  • Acquire Curse on Hit setup, typically through Dread Arc or gloves.
  • Use Blasphemy to apply curses until you can switch to Profane Proxy.

• Mana Management

  • Check your total mine limit and mana unreserved to ensure smooth gameplay.
  • Adjust your skill tree for optimal mana efficiency if necessary.

Chapter 5: Early Game Strategy

• Gear Acquisition

  • Focus on obtaining Dread Arc gloves for increased damage.
  • Aim for medium clusters with Chaos and Spell Damage nodes.

• Crafting Tips

  • Reforge for key cluster nodes like Cora Tactics and Surprise Sabotage for a significant damage boost.

Chapter 6: Pre-Sandstorm Setup

• Crafting for Crit

  • Use Shaper or Hunter body armor to maximize spell crit chances.
  • Consider using Automation Support for smoother gameplay, enhancing mine throwing.

• Skill Tree Adjustments

  • Transition to a four-cluster setup as you level up and optimize gear.

Chapter 7: Endgame Optimization

• Endgame Crafting Strategies

  • Focus on crafting wands and shields with spell damage and crit chance.
  • Use fractured bases and augment crit for better suffixes.

• Cluster Jewels

  • Use medium clusters for trap and mine damage; large clusters should focus on enhancing overall build effectiveness.

Chapter 8: Managing Mana Issues

• Addressing Mana Flask Needs

  • Use double enduring mana flasks to manage mana during boss fights.
  • Consider dropping mana efficiency nodes if they complicate your build.

• General Recommendations

  • While mana can be an optimization point, it is not a major issue in gameplay.

Conclusion

In summary, the Trickster Hexblast Mines build is a powerful and flexible choice for the 3.25 League. By understanding the mechanics of Hexblast, efficiently leveling, and optimizing your gear and skills, you can excel in various game content. As you progress, focus on crafting and adjusting your setup to suit your playstyle, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Happy gaming!