Key Highlights of Path of Exile 2’s Upcoming 0.2.0 Update
- The much-anticipated 0.2.0 update for Path of Exile 2 is slated for a March release, promising significant enhancements to core gameplay mechanics and an array of new content.
- A new Support Gem named Derange is set to elevate existing builds such as Archmage Spark and those that focus on stat stacking.
- Builds like Acolyte of Chayula stand to gain advantages from the unique mechanics introduced by Derange.
The upcoming 0.2.0 update for Path of Exile 2 marks a critical milestone for the game, with its release expected by the end of March. While an exact date remains unconfirmed, this update will be one of the most extensive adjustments made since the game’s early access debut. The patch will introduce pivotal changes to core systems, along with a variety of new content, including a rework of the Towers mechanic and the addition of several Unique Items. Recently, GGG announced the arrival of multiple new Support Gems as part of this significant update.
Currently, Path of Exile 2 boasts a range of powerful builds. However, the balance post-update could affect their viability. There’s speculation that powerful skills like Herald of Ice and Herald of Thunder may face nerfs due to their synergistic chaining, which has resulted in exceptionally high clear speeds at minimal resource costs. Nevertheless, some builds are positioned to thrive with the introduction of the new Support Gem, Derange.
Exploring Derange: A Game-Changer for Select Builds in Path of Exile 2
Derange, a new Support Gem introduced in the 0.2.0 update, is tailored to complement several existing builds. Along with Derange, GGG is also adding other Support Gems such as:
- Volcanic Eruption
- Embitter
- Concoct
- Commiserate
What makes Derange particularly enticing is its capacity to enhance supported skills with a damage boost of 8% per 100 Intelligence points, though at the cost of consuming Energy Shield equivalent to the Mana used for each skill. While this may appear to be a steep trade, builds such as Archmage Spark and those that emphasize Intelligence stacking—like Gemling Legionnaire paired with Pillar of the Caged God—are likely to maximize the potential of Derange.
In the 0.2.0 update for Path of Exile 2, we’re adding a lot of new support gems with an emphasis on skills that are lacking support gem options! Check out Derange, Volcanic Eruption, Embitter, Concoct and Commiserate. This is just a small taste of the many new support gems.pic.twitter.com/yGXNhkiw1x — Path of Exile (@pathofexile) February 23, 2025
Notably, builds utilizing the Intelligence multiplier provided by Derange would not just maximize damage but also mitigate Energy Shield costs through specific mechanics like Grim Feast. Taking advantage of Chaos Inoculation or hybrid Life and Energy Shield setups can ease the burden of Energy Shield consumption, particularly when coupled with wands or focuses in Path of Exile 2. This synergy is why Archmage Spark and Intelligence-heavy builds are likely to leverage Derange effectively, especially for boss encounters where damage output is crucial while minimizing survivability concerns during mapping.
In practice, an Archmage Spark build can potentially achieve an overall Intelligence of 200, granting a damage multiplier of 16% solely based on Derange. For stat-stacking builds, a setup featuring a Gemling Legionnaire alongside an Astramentis could exceed 1, 000 Intelligence, translating to an impressive 80% damage increase when using Derange. Even a modest boost of 16% could render Derange a top contender for many non-ailment builds, with potential for even greater gains as Intelligence increases.
The Potential of Derange as an S-Tier Support Gem in Path of Exile 2
While Derange appears exceptionally beneficial for builds like Archmage Spark and stat-stacking variations, other builds may also see noteworthy, albeit less dramatic, enhancements. For instance, an Acolyte of Chayula build can leverage Derange by simultaneously leeching both Mana and Energy Shield, thus offsetting its drawbacks. Similarly, utilizing Derange with powerful skills such as Hammer of the Gods, known for their high impact but slower application, can help manage Energy Shield consumption. Ultimately, as the meta evolves following the 0.2.0 patch, Derange stands out as a promising support gem poised to redefine gameplay strategies.
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