Can You Change Ascendancy in Poe2? Your Essential Guide to Class Choices
Your Path of Exile 2 Journey
Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) introduces a vast world of character customization. A core part of your build is your Ascendancy class—a powerful specialization chosen after the Labyrinth. Many players wonder, "can you change ascendancy in poe2?" once they've made their initial choice. This guide will explain exactly how this system works in simple terms.

What is an Ascendancy Class?
In PoE2, your base class (like the Witch or Marauder) defines your starting position on the passive skill tree. After completing the first Labyrinth trial, you can choose an Ascendancy class. This is a more focused subclass, such as the Necromancer (for the Witch) or the Juggernaut (for the Marauder).
Your Ascendancy grants you a unique mini-skill tree with powerful notables and keystones. These abilities fundamentally shape your playstyle, determining whether you summon minions, deal massive spell damage, or become an unkillable tank. Choosing the right one is crucial.
The Short Answer: Yes, You Can Change
To directly answer the burning question: yes, you can change your ascendancy in Poe2. The game provides a method to reset your Ascendancy choices, but it is not free or instantaneous. This flexibility allows you to experiment or correct a choice without deleting your entire character.
This is a common point of research for players planning their builds. Knowing can you change ascendancy in poe2 provides peace of mind and encourages creative experimentation.
How to Reset Your Ascendancy: The Orb of Regret
The primary tool for changing your Ascendancy is the Orb of Regret. This is a consumable currency item found throughout the game. Here’s how the process works:
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You need five Orb of Regret to create one "Refund Points".
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Each notable passive or keystone in your Ascendancy tree requires one Refund Point to unspec.
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You must refund all points spent in your current Ascendancy tree before you can choose a new one.
Once your Ascendancy tree is completely cleared (all points refunded), you can re-enter the Labyrinth’s Ascendancy Altar. There, you will be presented with the choice to select a different Ascendancy class available to your base character.
Important Considerations Before Switching
Changing your Ascendancy is a major decision. Before you spend your Orbs of Regret, think about these points:
Gear and Gem Compatibility: Your new Ascendancy might need completely different gear and skill gems. A build designed for the Berserker’s attack damage will likely not work for the Chieftain’s totem and fire focus. You may need to re-gear your character entirely.
Passive Tree Reset: To fully support a new Ascendancy, you often need to respec many points on your main passive skill tree. This requires additional Orb of Regret. Plan for a substantial currency investment.
Lab Trials Required: Simply refunding points is not enough. To finalize the change and select a new Ascendancy, you must complete the Labyrinth trial again. Ensure you are prepared to run it.
When Should You Consider a Change?
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Mistakes: You picked an Ascendancy that doesn't fit your desired playstyle.
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New Build Ideas: You found a unique item or skill gem that inspires a new build with a different subclass.
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Game Updates: A balance patch (like a new "league") might significantly alter an Ascendancy, making another option more appealing for your build.
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Endgame Respec: In the very late game, some players respec into specialized Ascendancies for boss farming or map clearing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is changing my Ascendancy free?
A: No. It requires at least five Orb of Regret to clear the tree, plus more to adjust your main passive tree. It is a meaningful investment.
Q: Can I change to any Ascendancy?
A: You can only change to an Ascendancy available to your base class. A Ranger can choose between the Raider, Deadeye, or Pathfinder, but cannot become a Witch’s Occultist.
Q: What if I only want to change one small node in my Ascendancy?
A: You can use a single Refund Point (5 Orbs of Regret) to unspec one minor or notable passive within your current Ascendancy tree without changing the whole class.
Q: Is there a faster way to experiment?
A: The best way to experiment is to use the "League" system. Starting a new character in a fresh league (like the upcoming Necropolis League) lets you try a different class from scratch with everyone else.
Plan Carefully, Change Freely
Understanding that you can change ascendancy in poe2 is liberating. It means your initial choice is not a permanent trap. However, due to the cost involved, it is wise to plan your first choice carefully by reading guides or watching build videos.
Use the flexibility to correct mistakes or explore new ideas in the endgame. With this knowledge, you can approach your PoE2 journey with more confidence, knowing your path can adapt as you grow stronger.
Have you tried changing your Ascendancy? Share your respec stories and tips with fellow Exiles in the comments below

