This guide provides a comprehensive starter build for the Monk class in Path of Exile 2, focusing on early-game success. It covers recommended skills, stat priorities, passive skills, and gear choices.
Best Monk Skills and Support Gems
Here's a breakdown of essential skills and support gems for the early game:
Falling Thunder
Support Gems: Perpetual Charge, Fist of War
Initially weak, Falling Thunder becomes incredibly powerful when fueled by Power Charges. Use dodge-rolling to cancel its animation.
Killing Palm
Support Gems: Profusion, Life Drain
Generates Power Charges for Falling Thunder. Effective for finishing off weakened enemies.
Tempest Bell
Support Gems: Ruthless, Magnified Effect
A unique and powerful AoE skill that synergizes with elemental effects. Build combo points with basic attacks to activate.
Staggering Palm
Support Gems: Scattershot, Brutality
Breaks enemy stagger bars and temporarily enhances basic attacks into projectiles.
Quarterstaff Strike (Upgraded Basic Attack)
Support Gems: Martial Tempo, Overpower
A fast and effective way to build combo points for Tempest Bell and trigger Staggering Palm projectiles.
Lingering Illusion
Creates after-images during dodge rolls that can distract enemies. Generates Power Charges when destroyed.
Monk Stat Priorities
Regular Stats
- Dexterity
- Intelligence
- Strength
Defensive Stats
- Energy Shield
- Evasion
- Life Leech
Offensive Stats
- Physical Damage
- Lightning Damage
- Cold Damage
Best Monk Passive Skills
Focus on these passive skills early on:
- Flow Like Water
- Step Like Mist
- Mindful Awareness
- Life From Death
Later, consider these passives:
- Tenfold Attacks
- Killer Instinct
- Immortal Thirst
- Immortal Infamy
Best Monk Gear
Prioritize damage and attack speed on gear. Look for Crescent Quarterstaffs and consider the Crown of Thorns unique helmet (be mindful of its HP cost). Disenchant unwanted items to enhance preferred weapons.
Enable the "Show mini life bar above you" option in the Interface settings for better survivability.
