SSF Build Guide: What To Play Next In Path Of Exile?

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SSF Build Guide: What to Play Next in Path of Exile?

Hey Path of Exile (PoE) enthusiasts! If you're anything like me, you're constantly on the hunt for the perfect build, the one that lets you effortlessly conquer maps, obliterate bosses, and generally feel like a god among mortals. But with the sheer number of build options out there, it can be overwhelming, especially when you're playing in Solo Self-Found (SSF) mode. That's why I've put together this SSF build guide, to help you navigate the treacherous waters of Wraeclast and find your next awesome character. We'll be diving deep into what makes a build SSF-friendly, looking at some strong build archetypes, and considering the all-important factors like clear speed, bossing capabilities, and of course, fun factor. So, grab your Exalted Orbs (or, you know, the dream of them), and let's get started!

What Makes a Build SSF-Friendly, Anyway?

So, before we start listing build ideas, let's chat about what makes a build actually good in SSF. Unlike trade leagues where you can simply buy the gear you need, in SSF, you're entirely reliant on what drops for you. This means that build selection is crucial. Here's the lowdown on the key considerations:

  • Gear Dependency: This is arguably the most important factor. SSF builds thrive on being able to function well with readily available gear. Builds that require specific unique items or rare items with super specific affixes are generally a no-go. Look for builds that can utilize a variety of different items and still perform well. Builds that can get by with crafted gear and easily obtained uniques are ideal.
  • League Start Viability: Can you comfortably level this build from the start of the league? Can it handle the early maps with minimal investment? If the answer is yes, then it's a good starting point for SSF. League starters are often designed to be relatively gear-independent early on, allowing you to farm currency and acquire better gear as you progress.
  • Defensive Layers: Let's be real, you will get hit. A lot. SSF is all about survival. Builds with strong defensive layers are paramount. Look for builds that utilize multiple defenses, such as high life or energy shield, block, dodge, armour, or evasion. Don't underestimate the importance of recovery like life leech or regeneration.
  • Clear Speed vs. Bossing: This is a classic dilemma. Some builds excel at clearing maps quickly but struggle against bosses, while others are the opposite. Think about what you enjoy more: the satisfying feeling of a screen-wide clear or the thrill of taking down a challenging boss. Ideally, aim for a build that can do both reasonably well. You can always specialize later, but a good all-rounder is a great place to start.
  • Accessibility: Can you understand the mechanics of the build and how it works? Is it something you can learn and improve on? While complex builds can be rewarding, they can also be frustrating if you don't grasp the fundamentals. If you are new, start with something easy, but fun! There is nothing wrong with being a meta slave. It is okay to look at a streamer or content creator. We all do!

Awesome SSF Build Archetypes to Consider

Alright, now for the fun part: the builds! Here are a few SSF build archetypes that have historically performed well and should be considered for your next character. Keep in mind that specific builds within these archetypes will vary depending on the league and the current meta, but the core principles remain the same.

1. The Minion Master

Minion builds are almost synonymous with SSF success. They're naturally tanky, often scale well with gear, and offer a relaxed playstyle where your minions do most of the work. If you enjoy a hands-off approach and love the idea of summoning an army, then minion builds are for you!

  • Why they're good for SSF: Minion builds typically scale with generic modifiers like minion damage, minion life, and minion speed, which are readily available on gear. They can also utilize specific unique items that are relatively easy to acquire. The minions themselves act as a meat shield, absorbing damage, which makes the build more forgiving.
  • Popular choices: The classic Spectre builds, the Summon Skeletons builds, and the Carrion Golem builds. These builds can clear maps with ease, have good bossing capabilities, and scale well into the endgame. There is a wide variety of minions that can provide different functionalities, such as defensive buffs, extra damage, etc. Minions builds can have a steep learning curve, but can be very rewarding once you get the hang of it.
  • Key Considerations: Focus on getting minion life, damage, and resistances. Utilize defensive skills like Desecrate, and consider a source of Feeding Frenzy support to keep your minions aggressive. Choose minion types that complement your playstyle (e.g., Skeletons for direct damage, Spectres for specific utility).

2. The Totem Tyrant

Totem builds are another excellent choice for SSF, especially for those who prefer a less active playstyle while still dishing out damage. Totems do the work for you, allowing you to focus on positioning, dodging, and survival.

  • Why they're good for SSF: They can be built with a variety of skills, and are less gear dependent than other builds. This means you have more freedom to choose what playstyle you want to play. Totem builds also benefit from the safety of distance since the totems will do the work for you. There are a variety of skills that can be used on totems, and totems can also provide defensive buffs!
  • Popular choices: Storm Brand Totems is a popular choice for their easy-to-use mechanics, and fast clear speed. Ancestral Warchief is a very beginner-friendly totem build that can be built easily. Holy Flame Totem is also a powerful and effective option.
  • Key Considerations: Since the totems do the damage, make sure to consider totem placement to maximize effectiveness. Make sure to consider defensive layers to survive as you are more vulnerable compared to minion builds. Consider skills that can help you survive, such as flame dash, or frostblink.

3. The Cyclone Champion

For those who love a more hands-on, face-melting experience, Cyclone builds are a blast! The Champion ascendancy is a great choice for SSF due to its inherent tankiness and damage buffs, especially with the reworked Ascendancy.

  • Why they're good for SSF: Champion is a very good class for SSF, due to its inherent tankiness. This class is also very forgiving, which helps with survivability. Cyclone is a flexible skill that can be built with different weapon types, and damage types, which opens up more possibilities for SSF!
  • Popular choices: Cyclone Impale Champion is a solid choice because it is very beginner-friendly and can clear maps with speed. Cyclone Cast on Crit builds are another good choice because they can be geared towards different content. Bleed builds can also be used, but this is less popular than it was before.
  • Key Considerations: This build requires very specific stats to perform well, so make sure to get the necessary stats and gear to ensure success. Focus on the necessary defensive layers, such as armour, and evasion. Utilize the champion ascendancy to maximize tankiness and damage.

4. The Self-Cast Sorcerer

Self-cast builds may not be beginner-friendly but if you know what you are doing, they can provide a unique and rewarding experience. This build can easily be adapted for different playstyles and allows for a lot of flexibility.

  • Why they're good for SSF: These builds have the flexibility to take advantage of different builds. This makes gearing easier, and also can be easily adapted to the current meta. The different skills and effects make for a unique experience.
  • Popular choices: Ignite Elementalist is a very popular choice. Arc builds also work well. Ice Spear can also be used for those who want to be ranged. Explosive Traps are a good pick for those who want an interesting build.
  • Key Considerations: This build is gear dependent, so you must get the necessary stats. Some builds also are not beginner-friendly so this build is only recommended to those who understand the core mechanics of the build.

Tips for SSF Success

Beyond choosing a good build, here are a few general tips to help you thrive in SSF:

  • Crafting is King: Learn to craft! Understanding the basics of crafting, such as using Essences and Chaos Orbs, is essential for gearing your character. Learn about the crafting benches, such as the Harvest Crafting Bench.
  • Resource Management: Every item and every currency orb is precious. Don't waste your resources. If you're not using an item, consider selling it to a vendor for Chaos Orbs, Jeweller's Orbs, or Orb of Fusing.
  • Explore and Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new things. SSF is a great opportunity to experiment with different builds and skills that you might not try in a trade league. Embrace the challenge and learn from your mistakes.
  • Plan Ahead: Think about your build's progression. What skills will you use? What passive skills will you need? Where are the key pieces of gear you'll be looking for?
  • Join a Community: While SSF is solo, there is still a community to participate in. Join a Discord server or Reddit community to get advice and share your experiences.

Conclusion: Go Forth and Conquer!

SSF is a unique and rewarding way to experience Path of Exile. It forces you to learn the game mechanics, be resourceful, and adapt to whatever the game throws at you. Hopefully, this guide has given you some solid ideas and direction for your next SSF adventure. Remember to have fun, experiment, and enjoy the journey. Good luck, and may the drops be ever in your favor!