As new players dive into the thrilling world of Path of Exile 2, one of the earliest and most critical decisions revolves around class selection. Eschewing the traditional character creation process, this ARPG compels you to ponder: which class will best suit your journey through Wraeclast? Will the tried-and-true Warrior serve you best, or will the agile Ranger lead you to glory?

Expected to launch fully in 2025, Path of Exile 2 will introduce gamers to **12 unique classes** and **36 Ascendancies**, promising a rich variety of gameplay experiences. Players can anticipate dedicating **50-100 hours** to fully mastering a class, based on their gameplay style and any assistance from friends or community members. So, what class should newcomers choose to unlock the game's plethora of features?

For fresh adventurers, the **Mercenary** stands out as a prime choice. This all-new class has been meticulously crafted by Grinding Gear Games, promising a robust and dynamic playstyle. If you want a firsthand glimpse of everything Path of Exile 2 brings to the table, the Mercenary is the ultimate starting point.

Equipped with a crossbow and an arsenal of explosive grenades, the Mercenary excels in damage dealing. Players will quickly learn to wield the **Fragmentation Rounds** skill, transforming the crossbow into a formidable weapon that unleashes devastating bursts of fire in close-range encounters. This unique ability offers a shotgun-like effect, making it particularly effective against groups of enemies.

The customizability of the Mercenary doesn't stop there. As players progress, they'll unlock a variety of additional skills through the skill panel, thanks to the growing collection of Uncut Gems obtained throughout their adventures. This flexibility means you're free to experiment and find the perfect balance of abilities tailored to your playstyle without being locked into a single build.

Playing solo is a common approach in Path of Exile 2, despite the option for teams of up to six players to tackle challenges together. After extensive gameplay as a Mercenary, I've discovered the class shines in many areas, maintaining a competitive edge in most encounters, though it may struggle against particular bosses. With abilities that can control enemies' movements, area damage for crowd control, and powerful single-target attacks for intimidating foes, the Mercenary can handle various threats with flair.

What’s more, the Mercenary class boasts versatility in armor choices. Whether you prefer the resilience of plate or the agility of lighter options, you can pivot your playstyle accordingly. If you'd rather become a slow-moving tank, heavy armor can shield you from harm; alternatively, you can opt for a run-and-gun strategy, keeping your distance and employing nimble dodging tactics.

Not only does Path of Exile 2 promise a wealth of engaging content, from a diverse cast of classes to epic battles against bosses, but it also seeks to address certain in-game challenges, including loot distribution. As we continue to experience the game's Early Access phase, there's no telling how this evolving landscape will enhance future gameplay. Gear up, make your choice, and prepare for the adventures that await in Path of Exile 2!