Divergent Contagion: What Does It Mean in Game?
Divergent Contagion is a skill gem variant in Path of Exile 2, known for its unique effects and synergy with chaos damage builds. It is an alternate quality gem that modifies the behavior of the standard Contagion skill, offering different advantages for players looking to optimize their character's performance in various scenarios.
Skill Mechanics
The Divergent Contagion skill retains the core functionality of the original Contagion, which involves applying a spreading debuff that deals chaos damage over time to enemies. However, the divergent version introduces modifications to the skill's behavior, such as:
- Increased Chaos Damage: Divergent Contagion enhances the chaos damage output, making it more effective against groups of enemies.
- Enhanced Spread Radius: The skill may have an increased radius for spreading contagion effects, allowing it to affect a larger area and more targets simultaneously.
- Unique Interactions: Divergent variants often have special interactions with other skills or items, allowing for creative build synergies.
Build Synergies
Divergent Contagion is particularly effective when combined with other chaos-based skills and items that enhance damage over time effects. Players often utilize the following strategies to maximize its potential:
- Chaos Damage Support Gems: Using support gems that boost chaos damage or area of effect can significantly enhance the effectiveness of Divergent Contagion.
- Equipment with Chaos Damage Bonuses: Equipping items that increase chaos damage or damage over time can further amplify the skill's potency.
- Combining with Blight or Essence Drain: Pairing Divergent Contagion with other chaos damage skills like Blight or Essence Drain can create a devastating combination that quickly overwhelms enemies.
Acquisition and Leveling
To acquire Divergent Contagion, players typically need to obtain it through Delirium Orbs or by trading with other players. Once acquired, leveling the gem increases the chaos damage and spread radius, further enhancing its utility in combat. Players should prioritize maximizing the gem's quality to fully benefit from its divergent effects.