In Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), the Trials of Ascendancy play a central role in the game's character progression, offering players a unique challenge on their path to ascendancy. Ascendancy is a pivotal aspect of the game, allowing players to unlock Ascendancy Classes, which grant powerful passive skill trees and significant character boosts. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through what the Trials of Ascendancy are, how to complete them, and provide tips for conquering these daunting challenges.

What are Trials of Ascendancy in Path of Exile 2?

The Trials of Ascendancy are special dungeons or challenges that players must complete in Poe 2 trade to access the Labyrinth, a crucial area where players can ascend their characters and unlock one of the many Ascendancy Classes available in the game. These trials are not your typical combat-focused areas but are designed to test a player's ability to solve puzzles, avoid deadly traps, and traverse intricate environments.

The Ascendancy system allows players to choose a specialized subclass (such as Chieftain, Elementalist, or Assassin) within their primary class (like Marauder, Witch, or Ranger). These classes offer powerful passives that dramatically affect your build and playstyle. However, before you can select your Ascendancy Class, you must complete the Trials to access the Labyrinth, which contains the final challenges to gain your Ascendancy points.

How to Unlock the Trials of Ascendancy

Unlike many other challenges in PoE, the Trials of Ascendancy are tied directly to the main story progression. You can unlock the trials by progressing through the story, specifically by defeating specific bosses in the game's acts. These bosses will unlock different areas where the Trials of Ascendancy are located.

To unlock the trials, you will need to:

Progress through the Main Acts: You need to advance through the main acts of the game, defeating bosses and completing quests.

Defeat Key Bosses: Throughout the acts, certain bosses will unlock trials for you. For example, completing Act 3 will unlock trials in certain areas of the world that you can access.

Activate the Trials: After defeating certain bosses, you'll find a specific Trial of Ascendancy in various locations within the game world. These trials are located in zones related to specific acts, and you can activate them by entering and completing their respective challenges.

Once all the trials are unlocked in the game world, you can enter the Labyrinth and complete the final challenges required for your Ascendancy Class.

Trials of Ascendancy Locations

The Trials of Ascendancy are spread across multiple areas in the game. As you progress through the main acts, you will come across these trials that lead to access to the Labyrinth. Here's a breakdown of where you can find the Trials:

1. The Fetid Pool - Act 2

In Act 2, the first trial is located in The Fetid Pool, a swampy, poison-filled area. This trial is easy to access, but you'll encounter hazards like poisonous water and traps designed to hinder your progress. It's a good introduction to what the Trials will entail.

2. The Old Fields - Act 3

Another trial is found in The Old Fields, an area near the Spider Forest. This trial requires you to navigate through spider webs and sticky terrain. You'll need to focus on avoiding traps and finding hidden paths that lead you to the next checkpoint.

3. The Underground River - Act 4

Act 4 introduces the Underground River, a dark, labyrinthine area that tests your navigational skills. The trial here is filled with narrow walkways and traps, as well as large areas filled with swarming enemies. Be prepared for tough combat as well as environmental hazards.

4. The Temple of Atzoatl - Act 5

In Act 5, you will access The Temple of Atzoatl, an ancient ruin filled with deadly traps and complex puzzles. Players need to POE 2 Orbs for sale carefully solve challenges and avoid trigger mechanisms while traversing the area. This trial will often require a bit of problem-solving to proceed.

5. The Gardens - Act 6

In Act 6, the Gardens are the next trial, filled with deadly plant-life and poisonous traps. You will need to navigate carefully through these areas, as even minor missteps can cause devastating damage to your character. The Gardens test your ability to survive in a highly dangerous environment.

6. The Arena - Act 7

In Act 7, the Arena trial is introduced. This is a combat-heavy challenge where you will face off against a variety of powerful enemies. You'll need to defeat enemies, dodge their attacks, and stay aware of trap mechanisms while progressing through the arena.