Path of Exile 2’s Monk class was revealed during ExileCon 2023 and, judging by the extended gameplay footage we were treated to, it sounds like the perfect pick for anyone who envisions themselves evading hordes of foes using heightened mobility while delivering swift justice by way of stylish melee attacks.
One of PoE 2’s six new playable character classes, the Monk relies on a combination of the dexterity and intelligence attributes to stay on top of ever-growing enemy numbers.
Path of Exile 2 Monk Class
In terms of skills, Killing Palm allows PoE2’s Monk class to dash forward when used, instantly killing enemies whose health is low enough.
They’re indicated by a blue mark that hovers above them, rewarding you with a Power Charge while helping thin the enemy ranks.
Many other Monk skills interact with the Power Charge mechanic, making Killing Palm an important tool in the class’ arsenal.
Falling Thunder is a skill that, by itself, only creates a small lightning area of effect in front of the character. If cast after obtaining enough Power Charges, it becomes more potent, releasing multiple projectiles while being able to clear packs.
Whe PoE 2’s Monk class needs to quickly approach enemies, Whirling Assault allows him to do so.
The in-built additional movement that stretches across a variety of melee skills also allows you to slightly alter the direction of certain attacks, potentially hitting more targets or bringing them in a better position for follow-up strikes.
Wind Blast adds a different skill flavor to the mix. Although it’s not particularly damaging by itself, it pushes enemies back, making it easier to prioritize other targets.
Path of Exile 2’s Monk can also make use of skills like Glacial Cascade, a slowly moving attack that deals the most damage at its furthest point, to take out tougher foes.
It synergizes with Ice Strike, which is an up-and-close skill that has a higher chance to freeze foes on its third strike, as well as Wave of Frost, a retreating attack that also freezes opponents.
The PoE 2 Monk class’ Shattering Palm strike then tags monsters with an ice bomb that explodes and freezes when they are eliminated or dealt enough damage.
The original game’s Flicker Strike skill also returns in the sequel, only this time as a Monk skill.
Since crowd control mechanics now have internal meters that gradually build up, they can also be used on bosses, so the above arsenal may have more uses than you’d initially expect.
Path of Exile 2’s Monk class is shaping up to be a very mobile melee fighter that should play a bit differently than its counterparts who forego fighting at range. We should, hopefully, hear more about how it plays over the coming months.
For more on the action-RPG, also check out our article covering the slower but just as dangerous Druid class.
Keep updated on the latest Gaming News by following GameWatcher on X, checking out our videos on YouTube, or by giving us a like on Facebook.
