Path of Exile 2's 0.2.0 Patch is About to Buff The Strongest Build Archetype in the Game

The Path of Exile 2 0.2.0 update is gearing up to be one of the largest patches since the game's early access release. With a potential late March release and major changes on the horizon, players can expect significant modifications to core systems, the introduction of new content, and some potentially controversial changes-particularly to the Towers. Additionally, new Unique Items and Support Gems are set to debut in the patch, with Derange Support Gem standing out as a potential game-changer for specific builds.

Derange: A Game-Changing Support Gem for Certain Builds

The Derange Support Gem will likely elevate certain builds to an entirely new level, especially those focusing on Intelligence stacking. The gem offers 8% more non-ailment damage over time per 100 Intelligence but comes with the drawback of consuming Energy Shield equal to the Mana cost of the supported ability. While the Energy Shield cost may seem steep, Intelligence-stacking builds like the Gemling Legionnaire with Pillar of the Caged God can make excellent use of this gem. These builds, which already focus on Energy Shield and Intelligence, can mitigate the Energy Shield cost with added synergies like Grim Feast.

For builds utilizing Chaos Inoculation or hybrid Life and Energy Shield setups, Derange becomes an attractive option for increasing damage over time. The possibility of reaching 200 Intelligence alone would already provide a 16% damage boost from Derange, and with the right setup (such as a Gemling Legionnaire with Astramentis, potentially reaching 1,000 Intelligence), players could see a whopping 80% increase in damage over time, making it one of the strongest support options available.

Derange's Potential for Chaos Damage Over Time Builds

Chaos spellcasting builds, particularly those focused on Essence Drain and Contagion, could see significant improvements with Derange. The added Intelligence multiplier would further strengthen these already popular builds. Moreover, the increased Mana from stacking Intelligence works well defensively, particularly when paired with Mind Over Matter.

The Acolyte of Chayula build is another example where Derange could be used effectively. The Acolyte's ability to leech both Mana and Energy Shield makes it an ideal candidate for mitigating the Energy Shield cost that comes with using Derange.

Derange and the Meta Shift

As the 0.2.0 patch introduces these new dynamics, Derange seems poised to become an S-tier Support Gem for Chaos Damage Over Time builds. Its synergy with Intelligence stacking builds-like Gemling Legionnaire or other Chaos-based spellcasting builds-could make it indispensable for high damage output, particularly in boss fights or endgame content.

While the impact of the update on the overall meta remains to be seen, Derange has the potential to shake up the current hierarchy of Support Gems. Players who can build around this gem's strengths will likely find themselves with a powerful tool for pushing damage over time setups to the next level.

In Summary

The Derange Support Gem could very well break the game for builds that focus on Intelligence stacking and Chaos damage over time. By dramatically increasing the damage potential of these builds, it offers a strong incentive for players to adjust their playstyle and gear towards Intelligence-heavy setups.

If you're looking to buy Path of Exile 2 currency or specific Path of Exile 2 items, MMOexp platforms are excellent sources to explore.