While shields offer the primary source of block chance in Path of Exile (POE), achieving some degree of block without a shield is possible through various means:
Passive Skill Tree:
Several passive skill nodes scattered across the tree provide increased block chance. These are concentrated in the following areas:
Duelist: Located near the starting point, offering block chance nodes suitable for melee builds.
Gladiator: This Ascendancy Class inherently grants block chance and has access to powerful block-related Ascendancy nodes.
Other Ascendancies: Specific Ascendancy Classes like Guardian or Champion may also have access to block chance nodes relevant to their playstyle.
Unique Items:
Certain unique items grant increased block chance that can be valuable for characters not wielding a shield:
The Anvil (Body Armor): This unique chest piece offers a significant amount of block chance and can be a core defensive item for some builds.
Bringer of Rain (Shield): While technically a shield, this unique item can be used even when dual wielding, granting a substantial block chance bonus.
Determination Aura:
This aura primarily increases armor but also provides a small amount of block chance, offering a minor defensive boost for characters without shields.
Other Mechanics:
Weapon Mastery: Some weapon specialization nodes in the passive skill tree, like Staff Mastery for staves or Claw Mastery for claws, offer a small amount of block chance.
Important Note:
Blocking without a shield is generally less effective compared to using a shield.
The block chance gained from passive skills, unique items, or Determination Aura is typically lower than what a dedicated shield can provide.
Alternative Defensive Strategies:
High Life Pool: Investing in passive skills and gear that increase maximum life is crucial for characters without a shield to compensate for the lack of block chance.
Evasion Mechanics: Focusing on Dexterity and utilizing skills that grant Evasion or Dodge chance can be another way to improve survivability.
Fortify: This skill and linked support gems provide a defensive buff, reducing damage taken and improving survivability.
Here’s a table summarizing the options:
Method
Description
Effectiveness
Passive Skill Tree
Specific nodes offer increased block chance.
Moderate
Unique Items
Certain items grant block chance as a bonus effect.
Moderate
Determination Aura
Provides a small amount of block chance alongside increased armor.
Low
Weapon Mastery
Some weapon specialization nodes offer minimal block chance.
Very Low
Remember:
While achieving some block chance without a shield is possible, it’s generally less reliable than using a shield.
Prioritizing a high life pool, evasion mechanics, or other defensive strategies is crucial for characters that forgo a shield in Path of Exile.
Additional Tips:
Evaluate Ascendancy Class: Some Ascendancy Classes like Gladiator or Juggernaut inherently benefit from block chance, making them more suitable for block-focused builds without a shield.
Plan your build strategy: Carefully consider the trade-offs between damage output, block chance, and other defensive mechanics to create a well-rounded character that can withstand challenges in Path of Exile.