Vaal Ground Slam: What Does It Mean in Path of Exile 2?
The Vaal Ground Slam is a powerful Vaal skill in Path of Exile 2, designed to deliver a massive area of effect (AoE) attack that can devastate groups of enemies. Originating from the original Ground Slam skill, the Vaal version offers enhanced capabilities and unique mechanics.
Skill Mechanics
Vaal Ground Slam enhances the original Ground Slam by incorporating Vaal skill properties, allowing for greater damage and additional effects. Below are some key mechanics:
- Area of Effect: The skill creates a shockwave that damages all enemies in a cone in front of the player. The AoE size can be increased with appropriate skill tree nodes and support gems.
- Vaal Soul Cost: Unlike regular skills, Vaal skills require the collection of souls from defeated enemies. Vaal Ground Slam is activated once enough souls are gathered.
- Stun Capability: The skill has a high chance to stun enemies, especially when combined with increased AoE damage and critical strike multipliers.
Skill Synergies
To maximize the effectiveness of Vaal Ground Slam, players can consider the following synergies:
- Support Gems: Linking Vaal Ground Slam with support gems like Melee Physical Damage Support or Increased Area of Effect Support can greatly enhance its damage and coverage.
- Passive Skills: Investing in passive nodes that boost physical damage, AoE, and critical strike chances can significantly improve the skill's performance.
- Equipment: Using weapons with high physical damage and critical strike bonuses will amplify the skill's impact.
Strategic Use
Vaal Ground Slam is most effective in scenarios where crowd control and high burst damage are required:
- Clearing Packs: Its large AoE makes it ideal for quickly dispatching groups of monsters.
- Boss Encounters: The high damage output can be used strategically during boss fights to deal significant damage during vulnerability phases.
- Map Farming: For players focusing on map clearing, this skill can efficiently manage large enemy groups, making it a staple in many farming builds.