Unlocking Ascendancy classes is a crucial step in Path of Exile 2. These specializations grant powerful abilities and buffs through a dedicated skill tree. This guide explains how to unlock Ascendancies, complete the Trial of the Sekhemas, and choose your specialization.
How to Unlock Ascendancy
To unlock Ascendancy, you must complete the "Ascent to Power" quest. This quest begins by defeating the hidden boss Balbala in the Traitor's Passage during Act 2. Look for a door covered in paper talismans to find her boss room.
After defeating Balbala, speak to Zarka in the Ardura Caravan. Then, activate the desert map by Asala and travel north to the Trial of the Sekhemas.
Trial of the Sekhemas Explained
- Begin the trial by slotting Balbala's Barya into the altar and adding relics for buffs. Collect more relics during the trial.
- Select trials with various rewards and debuffs. Reach the final boss after completing enough trials.
- Maintain your honor, displayed at the bottom of the screen. Running out of honor or dying will fail the trial.
- Collect Sacred Water for extra keys and buffs. Keys open loot caches after the boss.
If you fail, speak to Balbala for another Barya. After completing the "Test of Strength," use the Altar of Ascendancy in the treasure room to choose your specialization.
How Ascendancy Works
Choose between two Ascendancies upon completing the "Test of Strength." Your chosen Ascendancy appears in the center of your passive skill tree. You receive two Ascendancy skill points to spend.
Earn more skill points by completing further Trials of the Sekhemas. Progressing through Act 3 and leveling up will grant you more Baryas for trials. While in Act 2, you can find Djinn Baryas, which will reactivate the "Test of Strength" and award loot, but not additional Ascendancy points.
