How to Swap Mercenary Ammo Types in Path of Exile 2

In Path of Exile 2, the Mercenary class is a versatile ranged fighter, wielding a crossbow as their primary weapon. What sets this class apart is its access to a wide array of ammo types, each tailored to specific combat scenarios. These unique ammunition options allow you to adapt to different enemies and situations, making the Mercenary a dynamic and strategic choice for players.

To fully unleash the Mercenary’s potential, mastering the use of multiple ammo types is essential. Switching between these types during combat can lead to powerful combinations and help you efficiently counter various threats. This guide explains how to equip and seamlessly swap between ammo types as the Mercenary in Path of Exile 2.

How Do Ammo Types Work in PoE 2?

In Path of Exile 2, the Mercenary class’s defining feature is its ability to utilize different ammo types with the crossbow. These ammo types are not merely cosmetic but play a significant role in determining the nature of your attacks, providing unique effects and utilities for various combat situations. Here’s how the system works:

1. Ammo Types and Their Effects

Ammo types in Path of Exile 2 are designed to enhance your adaptability during battles. Each type comes with its own properties, allowing you to customize your playstyle or counter specific enemies. Some examples include:
• Explosive Bolts: Deal area-of-effect damage to groups of enemies.
• Piercing Bolts: Penetrate multiple targets in a line, great for clustered foes.
• Bleeding Bolts: Apply a damage-over-time bleed effect, ideal for prolonged fights against tougher enemies.

The variety of ammo types ensures you can tailor your approach to different scenarios, whether you’re dealing with hordes of enemies or focusing on high-priority targets.

2. Acquiring Ammo Types

Ammo types are typically tied to the crossbows you equip and can also be obtained or crafted through gameplay. Some crossbows come preloaded with specific ammo types, while others allow customization, enabling you to swap out or add new options as needed.

3. Swapping Between Ammo Types

Switching between ammo types is a key skill for Mercenaries, as it allows you to react dynamically to changing combat conditions. Here’s how to swap ammo types:
• Hotkey-Based Swapping: Assign specific ammo types to hotkeys for quick switching during combat.
• Equipment-Based Swapping: Some crossbows have multiple slots for ammo types, allowing seamless transitions without needing to open menus.

Mastering quick swapping ensures you can maximize your efficiency and effectiveness in battle.

4. Building Around Ammo Types

Your gear, skills, and passive tree can amplify the effects of certain ammo types. For example:
• Use nodes or items that enhance bleed damage for Bleeding Bolts.
• Build around area-of-effect bonuses for Explosive Bolts.
• Focus on piercing mechanics to make the most of Piercing Bolts.

This synergy makes ammo type selection an integral part of your build strategy.

Adaptability is Key

The ammo type system in Path of Exile 2 makes the Mercenary class uniquely flexible, rewarding players who take the time to understand and optimize their arsenal. By learning how and when to use each type, you’ll transform your Mercenary into a versatile powerhouse capable of handling any encounter.

How to Switch Ammo Types with Crossbows in Path of Exile 2

Switching between ammo types is a core mechanic for the Mercenary class in Path of Exile 2. It allows players to adapt their playstyle to different combat scenarios, utilizing the unique effects of various ammunition to maximize efficiency and damage. Here’s how to seamlessly switch between ammo types during gameplay:

1. Equip Ammo Types to Your Hotbar

• Each ammo type functions as a skill and must be equipped to your hotbar before use.
• Open the skills menu and assign your chosen ammo types to specific hotkeys for easy access.
• Ensure your hotbar includes multiple ammo types to allow for quick swaps during combat.

2. Use Hotkeys to Swap Ammo

• Press the hotkey assigned to the desired ammo type to immediately equip it.
• The current ammo type will determine the effect of your basic attack and the shots in your magazine.
• Switching ammo types mid-fight lets you adapt to different enemies or situations.

3. Reloading Ammo

• When you switch to an ammo type, your character will automatically reload the magazine for that type.
• Mana Cost: Reloading consumes Mana, with the amount varying depending on the ammo type.
• Once reloaded, you can switch back to that ammo type later, and it will retain its remaining shots.

4. Monitor Ammo Count

• The number of shots left in each ammo type’s magazine is displayed in the top-right corner of the corresponding skill icon on your hotbar.
• This ensures you can manage your resources effectively, reloading only when necessary.

Tips for Effective Ammo Switching

1. Plan Your Combos: Equip ammo types that complement each other. For example, start with a crowd-control type, then switch to a high-damage type for single targets.
2. Know Your Costs: Be mindful of your Mana pool, as frequent switching and reloading can quickly drain your resources.
3. Adapt on the Fly: Use the flexibility of the ammo system to counter different enemy types, such as using Piercing Bolts for groups or Explosive Bolts for high-damage AoE.

Mastering the art of switching ammo types allows Mercenaries to unleash the full potential of their crossbows, making them one of the most versatile classes in Path of Exile 2. With practice, you’ll be able to fluidly adapt your strategy to any challenge the game throws at you.

Conclusion

Mastering the ability to swap ammo types as a Mercenary in Path of Exile 2 is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness in combat. With each ammo type offering unique effects tailored to various situations, learning to switch seamlessly between them allows you to adapt to challenges on the fly.

By assigning ammo types to your hotbar, monitoring your magazine count, and managing your Mana efficiently, you can unlock the full potential of the Mercenary class. With practice, this dynamic system becomes second nature, giving you the edge needed to dominate in this fast-paced and strategic ARPG. Embrace the versatility of your crossbow, and take your gameplay to the next level!