Maces can certainly be a viable option for a Boneshatter build in Path of Exile (POE), offering a distinct approach compared to the more popular Axe choice. Here’s a breakdown of the considerations:
Strengths of Maces:
Stun Chance: Maces inherently have a chance to inflict Stun on enemies. This can be beneficial for a Boneshatter build as stunning enemies:
Reduces incoming damage: Stunned enemies are unable to attack, providing a window for dealing damage without taking hits.
Triggers Bone Shield: Stunning an enemy with Boneshatter releases a Bone Shield, further enhancing defense.
Attack Speed: Maces generally have a slightly faster attack speed compared to Axes. This allows for more frequent application of Trauma stacks (the core mechanic of Boneshatter) and potentially faster generation of Bone Shields.
Example Build:
Here’s a possible approach to a Mace-wielding Juggernaut Boneshatter build:
Skills:
Main: Boneshatter (linked with Increased Physical Damage, Melee Physical Damage Support, and Ruthless)
Movement: Leap Slam (linked with Faster Attacks and Fortify)
Defense: Fortify (linked with Cast when Damage Taken), Immortal Call (linked with Increased Duration)
Mace: Prioritize high physical damage base and attack speed. Look for modifiers that further enhance Stun Chance.
Armor: Focus on high armor rolls and life regeneration.
Accessories: Aim for increased life rolls, resistances, and dexterity/strength.
Ascendancy: Juggernaut (focus on Ascendancy nodes that enhance life regeneration, physical damage, and survivability).
Important Considerations:
Lower Base Damage: Compared to Axes, Maces have a slightly lower base physical damage. This can be mitigated to some extent by focusing on gear with high physical damage rolls and utilizing jewels with increased physical damage.
Balancing Stun and Damage: While Stun chance is beneficial, a pure focus on it might compromise overall damage output. Aim to find a balance between inflicting Stun and maximizing physical damage.
Comparison to Axes:
Axes: The more popular choice due to their inherently higher base physical damage, which directly translates to more Trauma stacks and higher overall damage potential.
Maces: Offer a unique approach with the benefit of Stun chance for additional defense and Bone Shield generation.
Overall:
Maces provide a solid alternative for a Boneshatter build, particularly for players who prefer a more defensive playstyle with the utility of Stun and frequent Bone Shield generation. However, due to the lower base damage compared to Axes, achieving the same damage output might require more investment in gear and passive skill tree optimization.
Additional Tips:
Crafting: Utilize crafting mechanics to enhance your gear, specifically focusing on maximizing physical damage and Stun chance on your mace.
Link Setup: Experiment with different support gems for Boneshatter to find a balance between maximizing damage and enhancing survivability.
Passive Skill Tree: Allocate points efficiently to maximize physical damage, life regeneration, attack speed, and Stun chance.
Remember, the effectiveness of a Mace Boneshatter build relies on finding the right balance between Stun chance, survivability, and maximizing physical damage output.
By exploring these resources, understanding the mechanics of Boneshatter and mace suitability, and carefully crafting your character, you can create a functional and enjoyable Mace Boneshatter build in Path of Exile.