There are a few different ways to level up a Mercenary in Path of Exile 2. You can use Galvanic Shards to chain lightning, freeze enemies in place with Permafrost Bolts, or set everything on fire with Gas Grenades. While it is not the fastest leveling build out there, tossing grenades everywhere you go, and watching enemies explode is pretty satisfying.

The only downside of leveling up a Mercenary using grenades is the multiple-button playstyle. However, it can easily be fixed with a few Uniques that are very cheap in the Trade League - SSF is another story. Here is everything you need to know about leveling up a Mercenary using grenades in POE 2.

Act 1: Starting Strong

Act 1 is the most challenging phase due to limited AoE capabilities. Here's how to start:

Single-Target DPS:

High Velocity Rounds + Double Barrel + Martial Tempo

Flash Grenade + Scattershot + Overpower

Clearing Tool:

Galvanic Shards + Lightning Infusion + Pierce

Optional: Permafrost Bolts + Ice Bite for freezing enemies.

Utility Skill:

Herald of Ice or Herald of Thunder for added damage and utility.

Act 2: Unlocking Explosions

Once in Act 2, your grenade-centric playstyle takes shape. Key abilities and setups include:

Explosive Grenade: Fast Forward + Magnified Effect

Gas Grenade: Fire Infusion + Fire Penetration

Oil Grenade: Persistence + Inspiration

Explosive Shot: Martial Tempo + Pierce

Switch to Herald of Ash for synergy with your fire damage. Use an Oil Grenade to apply Fire Exposure and slow enemies, amplifying your damage output.

Act 3 to Mapping: Refining Your Playstyle

At this stage, you'll unlock essential tools and transition to a more streamlined setup:

Key Mechanics:

Use Explosive Shot to ignite Oil Grenade's burning ground, then spam Gas Grenades for massive damage.

Equip Birth of Fury or Radiant Grief for a one-button setup, making your gameplay smoother.

Skill Links:

Gas Grenade: Scattershot + Immolate + Elemental Focus + Fire Infusion + Inspiration

Oil Grenade: Strip Away + Persistence + Encumbrance

Flash Grenade: Maim + Brutality

Herald of Ash: Vitality + Clarity

Defensive Layer:

Use Wind Dancer and link it with Unbreakable for improved survivability.

Recommended Uniques

To enhance your experience, aim for the following items:

Birth of Fury: Converts the build into a simpler playstyle.

Radiant Grief: Improves grenade efficiency and reduces button usage.

Gear Stat Priorities

While leveling, focus on the following stats:

Health

Elemental Resistances

Mana

Attributes (Dexterity and Intelligence)

For weapons, prioritize Crossbows with high DPS. Regularly check vendors for upgrades.

Passive Skill Tree

Key Nodes to Target Early:

Instant Reload: Improves grenade uptime.

Cluster Bombs: Boosts AoE capabilities.

Repeating Explosives: Increases grenade frequency.

Volatile Grenades: Enhances damage.

Grenadier: Improves overall grenade mechanics.

This guide ensures you'll have an enjoyable and effective leveling experience with the Grenade Mercenary build in Path of Exile 2. Explosions, control, and versatility make this a standout playstyle! By actively managing your Path of Exile 2 currency and acquiring the right Poe 2 items, your Grenade Mercenary build in Path of Exile 2 can be highly rewarding. The combination of explosions, fire, lightning, and strategic item acquisition will make for an enjoyable and effective leveling experience!