The passive skill tree in Path of Exile is a vast network of skills that provide passive bonuses to your character. It consists of 1325 skills that you can allocate as you level up or complete certain quests. All character classes share the same tree but start at different locations that align with their primary specialties.
Mechanics:
Characters can accrue up to 99 passive skill points from leveling up, 22 or 24 skill points from quests (depending on choices made in the quest "Deal with the Bandits"), and 20 skill refund points from quests.
The passive tree is divided into three primary sectors: the north or blue sector (magic), the southwest or red sector (melee), and the southeast or green sector (ranged).
As you move towards the borders between sectors, the passive skills available become more hybridized between the adjacent sectors.
Each character class starts at a different location on the tree, indicating their preferred method of combat.
While it is possible to choose passives outside of a character's natural sector, it is generally recommended to stick to the natural section of the skill tree for optimal synergy with the character's skills and equipment.
Types of Passive Skills:
Basic Passives: These skills grant minor improvements to the character [2].
Notable Passives: Notable passives provide significant improvements to the character and can be acquired via cluster jewels and anointment [2].
Keystone Passives: Keystone passives significantly alter how the character functions and can be obtained from unique cluster jewels and unique Timeless Jewels [2].
Jewel Sockets: Jewel sockets are passives that can be filled with jewels, providing additional bonuses. There are 21 sockets distributed around the tree, and there is no cap on the number of sockets you can allocate [2].
Ascendancy Passives: Every character has the opportunity to gain an Ascendancy class, which grants access to an Ascendancy skill tree specific to the character class chosen [2].
Planning Your Build:With the vast number of nodes on the skill tree, planning a build can be a daunting task. However, there are ways to make it easier:
Use the search function in the passive tree viewing window to find specific passives or concepts you are interested in [2].
Compare the positions of passive clusters with the nodes you have already allocated and determine the most efficient path to reach desired nodes while considering other beneficial nodes along the way [2].
Allocate passive skill points according to your plan and the desired build [2].
Learn more:
Passive Skill Tree - Path of Exile
Passive skill - Path of Exile Wiki
Passive Skill Tree Guide for Beginners - Path of Exile - Maxroll.gg