The Marksman class in Last Epoch is widely recognized for its ability to deliver powerful bursts of damage over long distances. While these characters may not possess the highest defensive capabilities, they serve as an ideal choice for players enamored with bow-oriented gameplay. As indicated by its name, the Marksman mastery focuses on maximizing damage through critical hits, bow damage, and various status effects.
This guide will introduce you to an optimal Marksman build for the endgame phase in Last Epoch 1.2. Although several builds are capable of performing at high levels, we will specifically explore the newly introduced Heartseeker skill featured in Season 2.
Skill Setup for the Marksman Heartseeker Build in Last Epoch S2
At the core of this Marksman build is the Heartseeker skill, complemented by Puncture for damage output and enhanced survivability via Shurikens. This is designed as a streamlined two-button setup: utilize Heartseeker for damage and Shift for mobility and additional effects. Other skills will be activated through these two primary abilities.
1) Heartseeker
You’ll rely heavily on Heartseeker for your damage in this build. Use this skill to consistently deal damage while also triggering Puncture. Important nodes to focus on include Exposed, Straight Through, Decimating Spike, and Shadow Weaver’s Grasp for increased damage output and Recurve chance.
Don’t forget to select Controlled Icicle to boost cold damage. This choice is strategic, as it conserves skill points while focusing on cold damage over other ailments.
2) Puncture
Puncture will be automatically inflicted on enemies through the Straight Through node of Heartseeker. Level up Death’s Imprint and Press the Attack, followed by Timing and Debilitation to optimize damage output.
For Shift, enable rotating Shurikens to enhance survivability. Choose Sleight of Hand, Blade Shield, and Bladed Armor to maximize your defensive capabilities. Lastly, include Molting for additional utility.
Specializing in Smoke Bomb is recommended for boss fights. Consider using Concealed in Carnage and Cleansing Steam for improved performance in challenging encounters.
Playing the Heartseeker Marksman in Last Epoch: Skill Rotation
Begin each encounter by deploying Shift to activate Shurikens, enhancing your survivability. Once that is established, start utilizing Heartseeker to maximize damage. The auto-activation of Puncture will occur upon an enemy’s demise, depending on how many Recurves were achieved with your Heartseeker shots. Maintain a consistent use of both Heartseeker and Shift throughout combat.
During boss battles, integrate a Smoke Bomb into your rotation to further amplify Heartseeker’s damage output.
Optimal Passive Tree Builds for Heartseeker Marksman in Last Epoch S2
Below is the recommended passive skill tree for the Heartseeker Marksman build:
Adhere to the aforementioned skill tree to effectively build your Heartseeker Marksman. From other trees, focus on investing points into Raptor’s Wings, Wilderness Scout, and Outlander’s Tenacity from the Falconer class. Additionally, allocate eight points into Cloak of Shadows from the Bladedancer tree for enhanced survivability.
Endgame Itemization Guide for the Marksman in Last Epoch
1) Best-in-Slot Gear for Heartseeker Marksman
To maximize your potential in this build, aim for Reign of Winter, Mourning Frost, Troaka’s Teeth, and Peak of the Mountain. A critical affix to secure is the hybrid Critical Strike Chance/Bow Attack Speed on the Reign of Winter.
Even a T6 affix on an Exalted Bow can prove beneficial, in tandem with an LP 1 Reign of Winter. Prioritizing a high Critical Strike Chance from the beginning is crucial to the build’s success.
2) Starter Endgame Gear for Heartseeker Marksman
Any pieces of gear that offer Dexterity, Physical Damage, Cold Damage, and Health will serve as effective starter kits for progressing into endgame content.
Recommended Blessings and Idols for the Heartseeker Marksman
Here’s a list of suggested Blessings obtainable from each Monolith:
- Shred Cold Resistance on Hit: Age of Winter
- Cold Damage: Ending the Storm
- All Resistances: Reign of Dragons
- Void Resistance: The Black Sun
For Idols, the Unique Throne of Ambition stands out as a must-have, while other Idols can fill gaps in your resistances.