Last Epoch presents players with an impressive selection of 15 Mastery classes, each offering unique playstyles and specialization paths. These subclasses allow you to focus your build's strengths, ranging from conventional archetypes like Sorcerer to unconventional choices such as the aerial Falconer (complete with avian combat companion). With so many compelling options, selecting your primary focus can be challenging – our comprehensive Last Epoch Mastery tier list provides valuable guidance.
The beauty of Last Epoch's system lies in its flexibility – you're never permanently locked into a single mastery. Experienced players often combine elements from multiple masteries for optimized builds. While you can invest in the initial passive tree segments of other masteries, full specialization changes require visiting the Respec NPC located in the End of Time hub.
Evaluating Last Epoch's Mastery Rankings
Our ranking methodology considers several crucial factors that determine a mastery's effectiveness. Build viability depends on how well it fulfills core combat requirements – efficient enemy clearing (mapping) and formidable single-target damage (bossing), complemented by reliable defensive capabilities.
Among damage calculations, multiplicative "more damage" modifiers significantly outperform additive "increased damage" bonuses – masteries offering superior scaling naturally rank higher. Detailed passive descriptions clearly indicate damage scaling mechanics. Additional impactful combat statistics include critical hit chance/multiplier, flat damage values, armor shred mechanics, among others.
Defensive evaluation prioritizes critical damage mitigation and avoidance – crucial protections against sudden lethal spikes. Resistances remain important despite alternate gearing sources, with passive tree availability offering valuable flexibility. Damage reduction stands as the most valuable defensive layer, complemented by recovery mechanics (leech, regeneration) and effective HP pools (Ward/Health combinations). Masteries providing efficient access to these defensive layers naturally ascend our rankings.
Mastery skills undergo thorough analysis considering numerical effectiveness for both boss encounters and general gameplay, with minor weight given to gameplay feel. Even S-Tier skills might lower a mastery's position if their execution feels cumbersome. Players less concerned with mechanical complexities may adjust rankings accordingly.
Season 2 Mastery Tier Overview
S-Tier Dominators:
Paladin, Void Knight - Exceptional across all combat metrics with minimal weaknesses
A-Tier Contenders:
Falconer, Bladedancer, Shaman, Druid - Powerful specialists with slight compromises in one area
B-Tier Performers:
Marksman, Lich, Beastmaster - Competitive choices requiring specific build optimization
C-Tier Options:
Necromancer, Forge Guard, Runemaster - Functional builds demanding careful execution
D-Tier Specialists:
Spellblade, Warlock, Sorcerer - Niche playstyles requiring significant investment
S-Tier Mastery Deep Dive
Void Knight Analysis
The Void Knight specialization delivers unparalleled screen-clearing potential with its signature purple energy blades while maintaining exceptional survivability. Its versatile toolkit includes both the hard-hitting Erasing Strike variant and the more accessible Warpath build, accommodating various playstyles.
Paladin Breakdown
EHG's Sentinel rework propelled Paladin into the game's highest echelon, demonstrated by its dominance in Abberoth racing events. Its Judgement ability exemplifies perfect synergy - devastating 350% damage effectiveness paired with massive critical multipliers against minimal resource costs.
A-Tier Specialization Breakdown
Falconer Gameplay
Despite measured nerfs from its launch state, Falconer retains exceptional mobility and damage output through aerial maneuvers and Dexterity scaling. Players must compensate for defensive limitations through precise positioning and dodge mechanics.
Shaman Tactics
This elemental specialist thrives in high-tier Arena content (500+ waves) through its signature Tornado skill's impressive damage and crowd control. Build versatility allows adaptation between Storm Totem focus and traditional elemental casting.
Build Diversity Considerations
Our tier rankings represent general effectiveness rather than absolute power ceilings. Many C/D-Tier specializations can achieve impressive results with proper optimization - they simply require greater mechanical mastery or specific gearing investments.
For players seeking alternative builds beyond the meta, Maxroll's comprehensive build planner and community guides offer in-depth recommendations tailored to various playstyles and progression stages.
