Path of Exile 2: Unlocking Ascendancies Through the Trial of the Sekhemas
In Path of Exile 2, the approach to unlocking and enhancing Ascendancies has taken a fresh turn, starting with the unique challenge of the Trail of the Sekhemas. The game has evolved significantly from its predecessor, introducing changes that rejuvenate the experience while preserving its foundational elements. Many players have welcomed these alterations, which not only maintain the essence of gameplay but also heighten its difficulty and engagement levels. A prime example of this innovative shift is the newly implemented dodge roll mechanic, which adds a soulslike feel to the gameplay.
Understanding Ascendancy Trials
Ascendancy Trials are pivotal for players seeking to access their initial Ascendancy classes and accumulate passive skill points. Each character class offers a selection of three Ascendancies, each reflecting a distinct play style. Although Path of Exile 2 is anticipated to remain in early access for at least another six months, players can begin experimenting with six immediate classes—many of which are particularly beneficial for solo play—despite the incomplete nature of some Ascendancies. The classes available have already demonstrated exciting new enhancements that can significantly boost player performance.
Quick Navigation
- Initiating the Trial of the Sekhemas
- Completing the Trial of the Sekhemas
- Acquiring More Ascendancy Skill Points
Initiating the Trial of the Sekhemas
Defeating the Boss: Balbala the Traitor

To kick off the Trial, players must conquer the boss, Balbala the Traitor, located in Traitors Pass. Fortunately, this encounter is manageable for most players; Balbala’s attacks, while quick, are easy to dodge with proper timing. The encounter becomes more challenging when Balbala turns invisible and inundates the arena with poisonous gas. To neutralize the threat, players need to quickly locate her, often requiring them to circle around the room or unleash powerful abilities in open areas.
Upon her defeat, Balbala drops an item known as Balbala’s Barya. To proceed, players must bring this item to the Trials of Sekhemas node and place it on the altar, thereby awakening the once-hostile NPC Balbala, who will then assist players throughout the trial and guide them toward unlocking their Ascendancy.
Completing the Trial of the Sekhemas
Navigating the Challenges



Initially, the Trials of Sekhemas can prove to be difficult, but a deeper understanding makes it easier. Central to these trials is the Honour system. Upon entry, players receive a specific amount of Honour, which diminishes whenever they take damage. If a player’s Honour is entirely depleted or if they die, the trial restarts. Honour can be replenished at the end of certain rooms by exchanging trial currency called Sacred Water, obtained through defeating particular enemies and completing rooms.
At the start of the trial, players can select a limited number of relics that will offer various benefits during their run. The objective is to progress through a minimum of six rooms leading up to the final boss. Each room presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, which may include enchanted keys, Sacred Water, boon buffs, or structures that help restore Honour. After finishing a room, players can view available paths and rewards for subsequent rooms. Importantly, each room carries a debuff into the trial, intensified by the challenges faced.
Room Types and Challenges
Trial | Description |
---|---|
Chalice | Defeat all rare monsters that spawn in the room. |
Escape | Race around the room and disable all death crystals before the timer runs out. |
Ritual | Eliminate casters while they continuously summon new enemies. |
Gauntlet | Find the exit by opening doors with different levers while avoiding traps and foes. |
Hourglass | Survive in a room filled with constantly spawning enemies until time expires. |
Upon navigating through the trials, players will face the final boss: Rattlecage, the Earthbreaker. While his mechanics are not overly complex, he can inflict significant punishment, especially since you need to manage both your Honour and health. Rattlecage employs three types of slam attacks, including one that manifests mini-volcanos at range—this is particularly dangerous and should be avoided. His ultimate move involves an explosive burst that enlarges with each successive attack, while at the same time, rocks will fall from the ceiling after he drops below 33% health.
Acquiring More Ascendancy Skill Points
Exploring Your Options

Currently, players can obtain a maximum of eight Ascendancy points through various means. The primary method is by completing the Trial of the Sekhemas across its four Ascension tiers. Players can acquire the necessary keys as loot from areas leveled at 45+, 60+, and 75+, respectively.
Another avenue for gaining points is through the Trial of Chaos available in Act 3. Similar to the first, however, the keys for accessing the subsequent trials are more challenging to obtain, primarily dropping from areas at level 60 and above. Players can mix and match trials for points, but each tier only grants points once.
Ultimately, these trials provide a challenging yet rewarding pathway for acquiring essential skill points and enhancing Ascendancies. Successfully navigating them not only empowers character builds, such as the optimal setup for a Witch in PoE 2, but also engenders a fulfilling gaming experience as players strive to overcome intricate challenges, culminating in satisfying rewards.