Path of Exile 2 follows in the footsteps of its forerunner by providing intensive, detailed mechanics in skill customization, among which Arcane Surge is one of the best support gems within the game. The following guide will show how Arcane Surge works, its mechanics, and how you will be able to use it more effectively in your builds.

What is Arcane Surge in Path of Exile 2?

Arcane Surge is a support gem. It grants spellcasting abilities with some very powerful bonuses when the conditions are met. The following are included:

• Improved Spell Damage
• Increased Mana Regeneration Rate
• Boosted Cast Speed

This jewel will trigger its effects whenever you spend a certain amount of mana with the linked skill. Once the mana threshold is reached, you gain the Arcane Surge buff, enhancing your spellcasting abilities for a set duration.

How does Arcane Surge work?

Arcane Surge Mechanics

Arcane Surge is unique in that it tracks the mana spent by the skill to which it is applied. When that usage reaches a certain threshold, such as spending 100% of your maximum mana in a single activation Arcane Surge buff kicks in. Key features include:

1. The Activation Condition would be by spending a certain amount of mana on linked skills.
2. Buffs: 10% Increased Cast Speed, 20% Increased Mana Regeneration Rate, Additional Spell Damage
3. Duration: Arcane Surge is designed to last, by default, 8 seconds, ample time for you to maximize the potential before needing to refresh the buff.

The versatility of this gem makes it an easy synergistic fit for many different builds, everything from elemental mages to utility-heavy casters.

How to Obtain Arcane Surge in Path of Exile 2

Arcane Surge can be gotten through several means, which are all but one or two being support gem support. Here's how you can get it:

• Gem Drops: It can be dropped as loot while navigating the game, but the availability might depend on some regions or levels.
• Crafting: This can be crafted by using resources like shards or runes to engrave it onto an Uncut Support Gem.
• Vendors: Some vendors will have Arcane Surge available for purchase with in-game currency or other items.

Arcane Surge Optimization for Your Build

First of all, proper Arcane Surge requires some optimal use. Observe the following tips:

1. Choose the right skills to link

Arcane Surge is best used in combination with high-mana-using spells so that the mana threshold can always be reached. Examples include:

• Fireball
• Tendrils of Lightning
• Cold Snap

Avoid linking it with skills that consume little mana, since this will delay or impede the activation of the buff.

2. Mana Efficiency Balance

While tempting to stack Arcane Surge with high-cost spells, you must efficiently manage your mana pool. Use gear, flasks, and passives that improve mana regeneration to sustain your casting during combat.

3. Enhance Passive Skills

Passives and ascendancies can greatly enhance the effectiveness of Arcane Surge by offering synergy. Consider the following options:

• Force of Will: Increased spell damage and mana-related bonuses.
• Constant Gale: Spell buffs are a lot stronger, making Arcane Surge even more powerful.

4. Gear and Support Gems

Specific gear and additional support gems can further increase Arcane Surge:

• Mana Regeneration Items: Use items with mana regeneration modifiers to reduce downtime.
• Support Gems: Arcane Surge will work well if combined with such gems like Faster Casting or Spell Echo for more speed and great damage output.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arcane Surge stack with other buffs?

Yes, Arcane Surge is stacked with other buffs such as Arcane Cloak or ascendancy-based. You are not allowed to socket several Arcane Surge gems in the same skill for stacking.

How would you scale Arcane Surge?

Focus on increasing your maximum mana and mana regeneration to reach the activation threshold sooner. Passive tree nodes that grant additional cast speed or spell damage also support Arcane Surge.

Does Arcane Surge work for non-castor builds?

While primarily designed for spellcasters, it can support hybrid builds that rely on spells for secondary damage or utility.

Conclusion

Arcane Surge is among those keystones that make the majority of the caster builds work in Path of Exile 2, touting a bundle of incredible bonuses to the efficiency and damage output of spellcasting. Mastering its mechanics, optimizing its use, and having your build synergize with it are the keys that will see you unlock its full potential for dominance in both PvE and PvP. Employ Arcane Surge judiciously, and it will become an important piece in your toolbox as you power through Wraeclast and beyond.