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MMOexp-What to Play in Diablo 4:Build Rankings (2025-06-17)
Diablo 4 Season 9 may not be the most jam-packed content-wise, but what it does bring is a long-overdue shake-up to the class meta. New unique items Diablo 4 Items, revamped key passives, and indirect buffs to lesser-played builds have sparked life into once-forgotten archetypes. Whether you're into melting bosses, clearing high-tier Pit dungeons, or just playing what's fun, this season has something new for everyone.
Below, we'll break down the strongest builds heading into Season 9, class by class, and rank them based on Pit-clearing potential. Let's dive in.
1. Sorcerer-Hydra Hydroburn Shatter Build (Top Tier)
Let's just get this out of the way: yes, the Shatter interaction is still busted-and no, Blizzard hasn't nerfed it again.
The star of the show this season is the Hydra Hydroburn Shatter Sorcerer. At its core, this build revolves around the new Affidian Iris unique, which makes your Hydra heads not just viable, but absolutely cracked. With the new Heradric power turning Burning DoT into instant damage, the Shatter passive gets abused like never before. Normally, Shatter doesn't interact with DoTs. But this combo turns burn into burst, making each Hydra explosion a mini-nuke.
This build is already clearing Pit levels past 120, making it the current king of high-end pushing. It's flexible, fast, and doesn't require precision gameplay-just smart gear investment and proper setup.
2. Druid-Spiritborn Poison Thorns (aka "Pantaloon Druid")
Coming in strong at number two is a completely new archetype-the Spiritborn Druid build. The core of this build is the Balazan Pantaloonis, a unique item that causes enemies to take thorns and poison damage every time you hit them. Pair this with a fast-hitting skill like Quill Volley, and you're proccing that effect dozens of times per second.
It gets even better when you add the new damage-over-time gem and the Noxious Resonance key passive, which turns your poison damage over time into an instant explosion. While the passive was nerfed, the combo is still potent enough to clear Pit 115+ content. Even better, it's extremely accessible-just farm the pants and scale up with attack speed and thorns.
It's refreshing to see the Druid-historically one of the clunkier classes-gain a low-barrier, high-ceiling build with real endgame potential.
3. Barbarian-Dust Devil Twister Build
If you've played Barb recently, you know Earthquakes dominated for multiple seasons. But in Season 9, Earthquake got gutted. Executioner's Aspect was obliterated, and relevant Paragon nodes were nerfed into the ground.
Enter the Dust Devil Twister Barbarian.
This "pet Barb" build spawns Dust Devils via the Pantaloon pants. These spinning tornados might look chaotic, but they're packing serious multipliers thanks to boosts in damage, size scaling, and Paragon tree synergies. Twister damage has overtaken Earthquake this season, and it doesn't rely on Overpower at all-which is good, because Overpower was heavily nerfed across the board.
If you like watching the screen explode with swirling chaos while hitting Pit 100s with ease, this is your build.
4. Druid-Flesh Render Bullwark Overpower
The "fat wood chopping man" is back-and this time, it's actually fun. After two seasons of clunky snapshotting and awkward cooldown management, Flesh Render Bullwark returns with a vengeance.
Here's how it works: stack Willpower like crazy, use Flesh Render to convert your Bullwark damage into a massive Overpower nuke, and reset everything with Petrify and Spirit Boons. Toss in Cyclone Armor and Debilitating Roar for utility, and you've got a cooldown-resetting, button-mashing powerhouse.
Bullwark was the top dog in Season 0, and it's back in the top five again. While not quite as ridiculous as Spiritborn or Sorc, it's a strong, consistent Pit 100+ build with tons of room for optimization.
5. Necromancer-Blood Surge Bonemancer & Minion Mage Hybrid
Necro mains, take a deep breath: Blood Bonemancer still exists, but it's been nerfed hard. Key passives and Overpower mechanics were tuned down, reducing its dominance. That said, the build is still among the top performers, especially if you're chasing Pit 105-110.
But here's the twist-Minion Necro is finally viable again, thanks to the Nars gloves. These gloves turn your Skeletal Mages into AoE-damage-dealing monsters. Combine them with the kamikaze aspect that kills your warriors for a 90% damage reduction and a massive multiplier boost, and you've got an actual endgame-ready minion build.
No longer a meme, the Skeletal Mage Necro can push Pit 100, offering a fun Diablo IV gold, thematic alternative to the usual bloodspam overload.
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POE 2 Rick’s Stomping Ground Build Proves-ELD.gg (2025-06-13)
In the fast-paced, constantly evolving landscape of Path of Exile 2, discovering a new synergy that actually works is like striking gold.In recent deep dive POE2 Currency for sale, explored a strength-stacking build based around Rick's Stomping Ground-a brutal melee skill that multiplies your Strength by up to 150% and uses it as the base damage.
The result? A one-button juggernaut that's surprisingly tanky, reasonably cheap, and-most importantly-fun.
Let's break down how this "Rake Stomping Ground" build works, why it's viable, and what makes it a hidden gem for endgame farming in PoE 2.
The Core Mechanic:Stomping Ground & Strength Scaling
At the heart of this build is Stomping Ground, a melee attack tied to the unique weapon Rick. This ability takes your character's total Strength and uses it as base damage-multiplied between 100% and 150%. Naturally, the higher your Strength, the more devastating your attacks become. That makes strength-stacking not just viable, but optimal.
Fully lean into this scaling by combining it with Iron Grasp, Crown of Eyes, and Energy Shield (ES) leech mechanics to create a tanky, spammy melee bruiser that can comfortably handle both clear speed and bossing.
The Weapon of Choice:Sky Sliver
A rare spear known for its insane attack speed and a very special mod:only rolling minimum or maximum values for each damage type. The logic here is simple-Stomping Ground doesn't care about weapon DPS. You just want to attack fast and frequently to maximize damage application.
Sky Sliver outpaces most rare spears in terms of speed and, thanks to its high roll consistency, ensures smoother damage output. Add in the synergy with Stomping Ground's flat base damage, and this weapon ends up being the best-in-slot.
Offhand Strategy:Focus for Flat Energy Shield
Runs a Focus item in the offhand instead of a shield or dual-wield setup. Why? Focus provides a significant amount of flat Energy Shield, which helps scale your survivability. Because this build forgoes traditional life-based defenses, stacking ES is key.
Paired with Essence Sanguis gloves (which apply life leech to Energy Shield) and Trample Toe boots, the build manages a solid 5.6k to 6k ES, which can be easily pushed to 7k or even 10k with minor upgrades.
The Tree & Passive Synergies
Blacksite Training Keystone:This node converts the Strength bonus that would normally go to life into Energy Shield, neutralizing the downsides of items like Iron Will and Iron Grip.
Iron Grasp + Iron Will Chest:These modifiers normally remove Strength's benefit to life, but since we no longer scale life, they become purely advantageous.
Crown of Eyes:Converts spell damage into attack damage, meaning any spell damage you gain from Strength or other sources contributes directly to Stomping Ground's effectiveness.
Eternal Youth:This keystone makes ES leech consistent and instant, skipping the frustrating ES recharge delay that can otherwise be a death sentence in combat.
Skill Setup and Gameplay Loop
The actual gameplay is refreshingly simple. You activate Rick and then spam Stomping Ground as quickly as possible. Thanks to the high attack speed of Sky Sliver and your massive Strength pool, you deal heavy damage in short bursts while staying mobile.
To cancel animation and improve movement flow, Jay uses dodge roll or another movement skill. Against bosses, he drops Orb of Storms to generate rage and applies Vulnerability curse to reduce enemy armor, maximizing the physical damage output.
This playstyle is essentially one-button efficiency with additional rage-generation and curses when needed.
Damage and Tankiness:Surprisingly Well-Balanced
Is this a top-tier DPS build? Not quite-but it doesn't need to be. Rake + Stomping Ground isn't going to delete Uber bosses in 3 seconds. But it does deliver reliable, scalable, and consistent damage for clearing and farming.
On the defense side, the build is arguably better than some glass cannon setups. The ability to push past 7k ES, combined with ES leech from life leech mechanics, makes you resilient to burst damage. Unlike life builds, you're not as prone to sudden one-shots.
If you wanted to take it further, suggests looking into gear with high ES rolls, or even incorporatingDeepest Tower and a different chest to skyrocket your defenses. Budget and Accessibility
The real kicker? It's cheap.
Most of the gear used in this build is dirt cheap because it doesn't scale with gem levels, which are usually the most expensive stat on rare items. Here's a quick rundown of the cost:
Sky Sliver:Common and affordable.
Rick (Stomping Ground):Easy to get.
Essence Sanguis gloves:Cheap and widespread.
Trample Toe boots:Unique and very affordable.
Amulet and rings:Can cost 1-2 divine each, depending on rolls and Spirit slots.
Focus:Not meta, so easy to find with high ES and spell damage.
Even the Against the Darkness cluster jewel, which gives 24% increased Strength and synergistic minor nodes, only costs around 2 divine. Compared to most meta builds, this one is easy to put together without grinding for weeks.
Final Thoughts:A Hidden Gem Worth Trying
The result is a build that's:
Comfortable to play
Tanky enough for most endgame content
Affordable for SSF or league starters
A refreshing alternative to spell or bow metas
If you're looking for a powerful, off-meta melee build in Path of Exile 2, this Rick Stomping Ground setup might be exactly what you need to smash your way through the Atlas-without smashing your wallet.
Build Highlights Recap:
Skill:Rick's Stomping Ground
Scaling:Strength stacking (up to 150% base damage)
Main Weapon:Sky Sliver (high attack speed)
Offhand:Focus (flat ES, spell damage converted via Crown of Eyes)
Defenses:6k+ Energy Shield with life leech to ES
Main Utility:Orb of Storms (rage gen), Vulnerability curse
Cost:~5-10 Divine for full setup
Best Use:General mapping, bossing with comfort, off-meta fun
This build could be the sleeper melee hit of the patch. If you're bored of projectile spam or mana-intensive spells cheap POE2 Currency, it's time to grab Rick, stack Strength, and start stomping.
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Mastering Brunson’s Signature Stepback in NBA2K26 (2025-06-07)
The hype around NBA 2K26 Season 7 is at an all-time high, and for good reason: Jaylen Brunson has officially been named the cover athlete. Not only is this a huge nod to his real-life dominance as a crafty NBA 2k26 MT, undersized guard with elite footwork, but in typical 2K fashion, it also means Brunson brings a brand-new signature stepback to the game. And let's be clear-it's not just flashy. It's gamebreaking.
In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Jaylen Brunson stepback, what kind of build you'll need to equip it, how it stacks up against other elite dribble moves, and why it's becoming a meta-defining animation.
Jaylen Brunson: The Face of Season 7
2K's choice to spotlight Jaylen Brunson in Season 7 is a refreshing pivot. While previous seasons leaned into high-flyers or shooters like Stephen Curry and Zach LaVine, Brunson brings a different flavor to the table-technical mastery, sharp footwork, and deceptive control. The game now mirrors that by giving him a stepback animation that is easily one of the most powerful tools for ballhandlers.
And like every featured cover athlete, Brunson isn't just a cosmetic addition-he comes with new signature dribbles, a custom stepback, and a unique jump shot release. Whether you're playing Park, Pro-Am, or trying to dominate the Rumble on the K, his sigs are changing the way guards approach scoring.
The Jaylen Brunson Stepback: A New Meta?
The newly introduced Jaylen Brunson stepback is already turning heads. If you were a fan of the John Wall or Stephen Curry stepbacks from NBA 2K24, you'll notice that Brunson's animation feels like a polished evolution of both-smooth, fast, and incredibly effective at creating separation.
Here's why it's different:
Quick burst out of the gather animation, perfect for chaining into combos.
Creates massive space, making it a nightmare for defenders even with clamps or anchor badges.
Trigger window is forgiving, which means fewer mistimed fumbles or broken animations.
Compared to other elite stepbacks like Luka Dončić, Tyrese Haliburton, or Devin Booker, Brunson's version strikes a rare balance: speed and space. It's not just aesthetic-it gets buckets.
Requirements: What You Need to Equip It
To use the Brunson stepback, you'll need to be running a ball handle rating of at least 92, possibly higher. This mirrors the requirements for other elite moves like the Stephen Curry escape, which demands a 92+ handle (Curry has a 97). Since Brunson has a 95 ball handle, it's safe to assume you'll need a 92+ ball handle rating to unlock his move.
What does this mean for builds?
Small guards and ISO shot creators will benefit the most.
Taller point forwards or two-way players may be locked out unless they sacrificed defense for playmaking.
If you're a 5'11" guard, like SG demonstrated in his gameplay, you're golden. Pair it with speed-boosting badges like Hyperdrive and Killer Combos, and you'll be cooking defenders in no time.
Jaylen Brunson Jump Shot: Smooth, but Not Top Tier
Season 7 also introduces Brunson's custom jump shot. With an 86 three-point rating, the requirement to equip it is surprisingly accessible-even for non-shooting builds. It's a fluid, easy-to-time release, great for newer players or those looking to try something different.
However, don't expect it to dethrone top-tier jump shot bases like:
Cam Thomas
Kyrie Irving
Patty Mills
That said, it's still worth experimenting with, especially if you value consistency and timing over speed or contest immunity.Gameplay Impressions: Rumble on the K Breakdown
The new Rumble on the K event gave players an opportunity to test out Season 7 mechanics in live gameplay. SG's video showcases several intense matchups, many of which highlight the power of Brunson's new sigs.
Key gameplay takeaways:
Brunson's stepback creates instant greens off screens and isolation plays.
Even without adrenaline, the move holds up under pressure.
Small guards are still viable, despite being a defensive liability-SG's 5'11" build cooked multiple defenders, going 6/8 from deep in one game.
Shot selection still matters-pulling from half-court without stamina is a no-go, but Brunson's spacing helps reduce bad shots.
Notable in-game moments include:
Using Steve Francis crossovers into a Brunson stepback for an open three.
Smart push peaks to manipulate defenders and bait corner switches.
A nasty late-game crab animation using the stepback into a green to secure a 20-15 lead.
Even when opponents adjusted and played physical, the stepback still gave SG room to operate, showing its staying power even in sweaty matchups.
Strategy Tips: How to Abuse the Brunson Stepback
If you want to get the most out of Jaylen Brunson's new move, here are some pro-level tips:
1.Use it in transition - Catch defenders off guard before they're set.
2.Combo it with quick stops - Confuse defenders by mixing fast brakes with delayed stepbacks.
3.Chain it into passes - Don't be afraid to bait help defense, then dot the corner.
4.Crab defenders with it - Use the stepback into a hesitation or spin to trap them on your hip.
5.Burn help defense - When the center steps up on screens, use the stepback to delay, then hit the roll or pop.
Limitations: It's Not All Sunshine
While the Brunson stepback is elite, it has a few drawbacks:
Requires high ball handle, locking out hybrid builds or taller wings.
Not as effective against elite locks with HOF Clamps or Menace.
If mistimed, it can lead to bailout steals or stepback turnovers.
Also, the jump shot-while smooth-isn't for everyone. If you're used to the lightning-fast base of Cam Thomas or the high arc of Kyrie, Brunson might feel a bit underwhelming.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer for ISO Guards
Season 7 of NBA 2K26 might go down as one of the most impactful updates yet-not because of new cosmetics or events-but because of how meta-defining Brunson's stepback is. It gives smaller guards a new tool to create space without relying purely on speed boosts or glitchy dribbles.
In a game where spacing, timing, and dribble IQ separate the comp from the casuals, having a stepback this powerful is a major win for ISO creators.
Whether you're in the Park, wrecking in Pro-Am, or running events like Rumble on the K NBA 2K MT Coins, Brunson's signature move is the next evolution of guard play.
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NBA 2K26 Build Breakdown: PG to Center-NBA2king (2025-06-03)
In the ever-evolving world of NBA 2K26, the build system remains one of the most exciting-and complicated-aspects of the game. With the new badge tiers NBA 2k26 MT, physical cap breakers, and an overhauled progression system, finding the right build is more important than ever. Fortunately, one content creator has dropped an in-depth breakdown of the best builds at every position, with a strong emphasis on versatility, badge optimization, and takeover synergy.
Here's a deep dive into the best builds for each position in NBA 2K26
Best Point Guard Build-Two-Way Inside-Out Slasher
Vitals:
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 220 lbs
Wingspan: 6'11"
This point guard build is a slashing menace with serious defensive chops-a true two-way force. Right out of the gate, it gets a 93 Driving Dunk, which can be cap-broken to 96 using +3 upgrades, unlocking Hall of Fame Posterizer. That means you're catching bodies left and right-dunking on bigs will become second nature.
Shooting-wise, an 83 Three-Pointer unlocks Bronze Limitless Range. While some players chase higher ratings like 89 or 94 for silver and gold badges, this creator argues that with takeover boosts and a good jumpshot (which they promise to provide later), you'll be greening consistently from deep with just an 80+ rating.
Passing and Ball Handling:
82 Pass Accuracy gives access to Gold Dimer and Bronze Break Starter, making it perfect for setting up teammates.
91 Speed with Ball lets you use Lightning Launch at Hall of Fame-the real blow-by badge, as he calls it.
Defense and Physicals:
85 Perimeter Defense
91 Steal for Gold Glove and Gold Interceptor
68 Block (Bronze High-Flyer)
Speed: 88 (plus speed takeover)
Strength: 82 for Gold Strong Handle
Vertical: 85 to ensure elite finishing animations
Rebounding: 72 defensive
All around, this guard build is balanced, fast, and defensive, with elite finishing and respectable shooting. Its build name? Two-Way Inside-Out Slasher-and it earns that title.
Alternate Guard Build-The Balanced Beast
For players looking for something more hybrid-think Derrick Rose meets T-Mac-there's another version of this build with some subtle tweaks.
Changes Include:
Driving Dunk: 91 base, but with +5 cap breakers, you hit 96 again for Posterizer.
Layup: 80 to unlock Physical Finisher
Three-Point Shot: 80 base, with a cap-breaker pushing it higher.
Ball Handle: 85 for access to the new T-Mac Signature Packages
Speed with Ball: 75
Pass Accuracy: 71 (chat consensus said that's enough for Dimer and Break Starter)
Defense:
Perimeter Defense: 85
Steal: 73
Block: 78
Rebounding: 70 (up from 60 after chat feedback)
Interior Defense: 74
Physicals:
Speed: 82
Strength: 85
Vertical: 85
This variant plays more like a jack-of-all-trades with added interior defense, rebounding, and strength. It lacks elite shooting, but it's still versatile and playable in rec, Pro-Am, or park.
The 6'9" Point Forward Build-Size Meets Speed
Vitals:
Height: 6'9"
Wingspan: 6'11"
Weight: 185 lbs
One of the more surprising entries in this guide is the 6'9" point forward build. Normally, taller builds lose a lot in agility-but that's not the case here.
Key Stats:
Driving Dunk: 89 (contact dunks unlocked)
Vertical: 78 to meet contact dunk requirements
Three-Point Shot: 80
Free Throw: 75 (adjustable based on Rec/Park preference)
Ball Handle: 80 (minimum for most dribble animations)
Speed with Ball: 75-enough for Lightning Launch Silver
Pass Accuracy: 87-unlocking the Point Forward name
Perimeter Defense: 90
Steal: 60 (just enough for Interceptor)
Block: 80-giving access to Pogo Stick and Paint Patroller
Physicals That Surprise:
Speed: 85
Agility: 85
Strength: 71 (unlocking Post Lockdown)
This 6'9" build moves like a guard, blocks like a big, and passes like a true floor general. It sacrifices elite steal and deep shooting but more than makes up for it with size, speed, and defensive versatility.
The creator also emphasized that Tyrese Haliburton's Pass Style-unlocked at 89 Pass Accuracy-is the best in the game, and recommended aiming for it if you want elite passing animations.Why These Builds Work in NBA 2K26
These builds are designed with three key principles in mind:
1.Cap Breaker Synergy-Instead of maxing stats from the start, you use cap breakers to strategically boost key attributes like Driving Dunk or Three-Point Shot when it counts.
2.Takeover Optimization-Builds lean on takeovers to cover weaknesses. A lower Three-Point stat is less of a problem when you pop a Sharpshooter Take.
3.Badge Efficiency-Rather than chasing max stats, the builds are badge-focused. For example, Hall of Fame Lightning Launch on a 91 Speed with Ball PG turns every blow-by into a highlight.
Final Thoughts: What's the Best Build?
While each of these builds shines in its own role, the 6'3" Two-Way Inside-Out Slasher stands out as the most complete. It's the best guard build in terms of badges, speed, dunking, and defense. You get the elite contact dunk animations, the ability to green with takeover, and the badges necessary to be a nightmare on both ends.
That said, don't sleep on the 6'9" Point Forward either. With its surprising speed, rebounding, and elite passing buy NBA 2K MT, it's one of the most underrated archetypes this year-especially for players who like to control the tempo and switch on defense.
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NBA2king-Top Custom Jump Shots in NBA 2K26 (2025-05-28)
In the world of NBA 2K26, shot timing, rhythm, and animation choice can make or break your gameplay. Whether you're a sharp-shooting point guard, a lockdown wing NBA 2k26 MT, or a stretch big, one thing is certain: choosing the right jump shot base and release is the key to unlocking your full scoring potential. After weeks of rigorous testing across builds ranging from undersized guards to towering seven-footers, here's a breakdown of the best jump shots, dribble pull-ups, and custom blends you should be using right now to get an edge in NBA 2K26.
Best Dribble Pull-Ups in NBA 2K26
Let's start with dribble pull-ups, which are crucial for players who favor rhythm shooting and iso-heavy gameplay. There aren't a ton of standout options in 2K26, but these are the ones making waves in the community:
Pro 2: A universal favorite, Pro 2 works great for both big and small guards. Its smooth release and easy-to-time motion make it extremely popular in Park and Rec play.
CP3 (Chris Paul): Tailored for rhythm shooters, CP3's pull-up animation is fluid and aesthetically pleasing. Ideal for smaller guards who like a clean fade animation.
Michael Jordan: For taller guards and wings who can't access Pro 2, MJ's dribble pull-up is reliable and has a classic, consistent motion.
Devin Booker: Requires a Starter 4 badge and an 87 mid-range or three-point rating. Booker's fade is silky and consistent once mastered.
Kobe Bryant: Only accessible with a Starter 4 and a 92 mid or 3PT while standing at least 6'5". The Kobe fade is lethal if you've got the rating to unlock it.
Kevin Durant: Great for taller builds like 6'10" or even 7-footers who are limited in their dribble pull-up selection. Pair with an 87 mid-range rating.
Normal 2: Your default option for tall builds without the shooting rating. Not flashy, but gets the job done.
Best Jump Shot Bases for Small Guards (Under 6'4")
If you're under 6'4" and trying to get buckets, here's what you need to equip:
Cam Thomas: Easily one of the most consistent bases in the game. Great for players without the Starter 4 badge. Fast, compact, and deadly on catch-and-shoot plays.
Payton Pritchard: Think of this as the NBA 2K26 version of John Wall from 2K24. Smooth motion with great arc. Pritchard base pairs perfectly with Oscar Robertson and Luka Doncic/Colin Sexton for a fluid blend.
Kyrie Irving: A top 5 base for small guards. This one has endless blending potential. Kyrie × Kyrie × Kyrie? Kyrie × Oscar × Beluba? You decide.
Allen Iverson: Ideal for lower-rated shooters (84–85 3PT). This base is rhythm-friendly and works great with players familiar with T-Mac or Jarrett Culver style animations.
Stephen Curry: Requires a 92 rating and has a steep learning curve due to its extreme speed. You'll either love it or hate it—there's rarely an in-between.
KPJ & Patty Mills: Unlocked with Starter 4 and at least 84–85 3PT rating. Popular with guards looking for extra versatility.
Bronny James: Unlocks with a 66 3PT/mid, but blends better if you're rocking at least a 76–77 rating.
Elite Small Guard Jump Shot Blends
1. Cam Thomas / Steph Curry / Beluba
Speed: Max
Blend: 15/85
Style: Slight push
Use Case: Money on catch-and-shoot. Cam Thomas is still top-tier for non-Starter 4 builds.
2. Payton Pritchard / Oscar Robertson / Luka Doncic
Speed: Optional at 34% for rhythm
Use Case: Smooth for rhythm shooters, easy to time.
3. Allen Iverson / Oscar Robertson / Beluba
Speed: Max
Style: Rhythm shooter's dream
Use Case: Works perfectly for users familiar with Jarrett Culver or T-Mac bases.
Best Jump Shot Bases for Wings (6'5" to 6'9")
If you're in that hybrid build range, these are your best bets:
T-Mac: A strong base with minimal contest animations. Best for rhythm shooters and those used to the Culver style.
Jarrett Culver: Faster than T-Mac, but sometimes comes with a slight hitch on catch-and-shoot situations.
Matt Ryan: Requires 83 mid or 3PT. Still one of the most effective bases in 2K26 for reliable greens.
SGA (Shai Gilgeous-Alexander): New and very under-the-radar. Needs 87 rating but works best at 89 for consistency.
Ray Allen: Requires a 89 rating. Smooth and reliable, especially for catch-and-shoot players.
JR Smith: Extremely easy to time. Use normal wrist if you're not confident in your mechanics.
Scotty Pippen: The Jonathan Isaac for 2K26. One of the most versatile jump shots for wings.
Justin Holiday: Don't sleep on it. Underrated and still very effective from 2K23 days.
Kobe Bryant: Fast, consistent, and feels sharp again in 2K26. A reliable choice for versatile scoring.
Jaylen Tyson & Jacobe Walter: Great options for players with lower shooting ratings.
Michael Porter Jr. (MPJ): Smooth for high-rated shooters, but hit-or-miss depending on player preference.Top Custom Blends for Wings
1. SGA / Beluba / Oscar Robertson
Speed: Max
Blend: Halfway on release, push timing
Use Case: Feels great for ISO and spot-up shooting alike.
2. T-Mac / Oscar Robertson / Sadiq Bey
Optional Sub: Julian Champagnie in place of Sadiq
Blend: 70–75% toward Oscar
Use Case: Reliable for spacing and deep threes.
3. Scotty Pippen / Beluba / Sadiq Bey
Flex: You can swap in Champagnie or Oscar depending on preference
Visual Cue: Key factor. Find the release cue you can green consistently.
4. Jaylen Williams / Oscar Robertson / Julian Champagnie
Speed: 34% (but can go max if you're confident)
Blend: 70% Oscar
Use Case: Extremely fast jumper that rewards good timing.
Final Notes: Visual Cues & Timing Are Everything
At the end of the day, your success in NBA 2K26 shooting relies heavily on visual cues and your comfort with the jump shot speed and rhythm. Don't blindly copy every base or blend—customize based on your personal preference, build size, and three-point rating.
Whether you're using Cam Thomas for your undersized guard or exploring SGA for your new lockdown wing, the goal is to find that perfect blend of visual feedback, green window size, and jump shot smoothness. Don't be afraid to experiment with Beluba, Oscar Robertson, Sadiq Bey, or Champagnie as secondary releases. And most importantly, adjust the speed and blend ratio to match your timing style.
NBA 2K26 is deeper than ever when it comes to shooting mechanics Buy 2K MT. But with this guide, you've got a massive head start.
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Madden 26:The Ultimate Golden Ticket Timing Guide (2025-05-22)
If you've been grinding through Madden 26 Ultimate Team, chances are you've seen the buzz about Golden Tickets. Whether it's the insane ability stacks or the novelty of out-of-position beasts, Golden Tickets have taken over the conversation. But the two most common questions flooding the community right now are: Is there a free Golden Ticket available? And can you earn Golden Ticket tokens without spending money Madden 26 coins?
In this deep dive, we'll answer those burning questions, break down the current state of Golden Ticket availability, and help you decide which Golden Ticket players are actually worth their price in training and coins.
Can You Get a Free Golden Ticket in Madden 26?
Let's cut to the chase-as of now, you cannot get a free Golden Ticket through traditional solo challenges or missions. That's right. Unlike previous Madden Ultimate Team programs that handed out free champions or legends through grindable content, the Golden Ticket set in Madden 26 is locked behind a paywall.
To complete the 99 OVR Golden Ticket reward pack set, you'll need a number of specific Golden Ticket tokens. And here's the kicker: the only way to obtain these tokens right now is through paid store offers. No solos. No secret missions. No Field Pass milestones. It's a pure cash-grab, at least for the time being.
Tokens are bundled into special packs like the "Elite Golden Pack" or the "Golden Ticket Opportunity Pack," costing roughly $10 to $15 per token. Since the set requires multiple tokens, you're easily looking at $100 to $150 USD just to complete it.
That's steep-even for one of the game's most hyped programs.
Is There Any Hope for Free Golden Ticket Tokens?
While the current state feels grim for no-money-spent (NMS) players, there is some hope on the horizon.
Two upcoming events offer potential lifelines:
1.Fan Appreciation Program (FAP) - Expected to launch soon, FAP traditionally provides generous rewards. If history repeats itself, it could include Golden Ticket tokens or even a full Golden Ticket card as a reward for completing solos or grinding the Field Pass.
2.Season 8 Field Pass - There's a strong possibility that Season 8 will feature token rewards or special missions tied to the Golden Ticket program. While nothing is confirmed, previous Madden seasons suggest some form of reward parity might arrive mid-season.
3.So while you can't earn a free Golden Ticket today, there's a solid chance one will become available during Fan Appreciation or in the Season 8 grind. Until then, the only "free" Golden Ticket made available was part of a make-right apology.
The Golden Ticket "Make-Right" Giveaway
In a surprising twist, some Madden 26 players did receive a free Golden Ticket pack-but not for anything they did right. These players were falsely banned over the past few weeks for purchasing Golden Tickets at "suspicious" auction house prices. EA Sports later reversed the bans and provided those affected users with a free Golden Ticket pack as compensation.
This unexpected move not only rewarded a small group of players but also impacted the market. With more Golden Tickets being redeemed, prices on the auction block began to drop, making GTs more accessible for the average player.
Best Golden Ticket Players to Buy Right Now
Thanks to that make-right wave, Golden Ticket prices have softened a bit-though they're still far from "cheap." If you've got coins to spend and are considering picking one up, here are the two best Golden Tickets in the game right now:
1. Joe Milton (QB)
Joe Milton is the undisputed top quarterback Golden Ticket in Madden 26. Standing tall at 6'5" with a lightning-quick release and a lethal stack of abilities, he's the full package.
Core Ability Stack:
Pass Lead Elite
Master Tag
Gunslinger
Set Feet Lead
You'll also find Fearless, Run & Gun, and Tireless Runner built-in at zero AP, making him an elite dual-threat option. While his price has hovered around 2.5 million coins, it's a somewhat "reasonable" cost given the value he brings. It's certainly better than spending $150+ on the GT token set.
2. Tren Scott (WR)
Yes, you read that right-Tren Scott, an offensive lineman turned wide receiver, is one of the best Golden Tickets in the game. There's something about these novelty cards that just break the meta.
Core Abilities:
Moss
Route Technician
Vanguard
Angry Runs
Tren Scott's sheer size, animations, and overpowering abilities make him an absolute nightmare for defenders. At around 2.7 million coins, he's expensive but totally unique. EA isn't dropping another 300-pound WR with elite traits anytime soon.
Pro Tip: Look for Golden Tickets that can't be easily replicated by future cards. While a better QB might be released later, it's unlikely we'll see another WR like Tren Scott this season.Should You Buy Packs for Tokens?
Here's the straight answer: NO, not unless you're already planning to spend for other reasons.
If a special offer pack happens to include a Golden Ticket token and gives you solid value elsewhere-fine. But if your only goal is to accumulate tokens to complete the Golden Ticket set, don't waste your money. You're essentially spending $120+ for one player, which just isn't worth it in the current economy of MUT.
Is the Market Worth Entering Right Now?
Prices have dropped slightly due to the make-right packs, but they're already creeping back up. As of writing:
Joe Milton is back at around 2.5 million coins
Tren Scott has risen to 2.7 million
Other options like RG3 and Michael Vick are available, but Milton clearly outperforms them, especially in release and ability stack.
If you're eyeing one of these Golden Tickets, now might be the best time to buy before another market swing.
The Bottom Line: Wait or Buy?
Want to go free-to-play? Wait for Fan Appreciation or Season 8. Free Golden Ticket content is likely on the way.
Thinking of buying one with coins? Target Tren Scott or Joe Milton. Both are meta-defining and bring tremendous value.
Considering spending money for the GT set? Unless you're a whale buy madden coins cheap, it's not worth $120+. Wait for free token pathways.
Golden Tickets remain one of the most exciting parts of Madden 26 Ultimate Team, but right now, they're more exclusive than ever. With a bit of patience and some strategic grinding, though, you may soon be able to add a 99 OVR GT to your squad-no money required.
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Spice Adams Is Madden 26’s Undisputed Backfield (2025-05-15)
In the ever-evolving landscape of Madden 26, the conversation surrounding the most dominant player in the game usually revolves around high-priced golden tickets or auction house monsters. But what if the most terrifying card in the game didn't cost a single coin? Enter Madden 26 coins: Anthony "Spice" Adams, a 6-foot, 310-pound defensive tackle turned running back that is literally redefining the meta - and he's completely free through the Real Deals challenges.
How to Unlock the Card
Before diving into gameplay and stats, let's talk access. The Spice Adams card comes from the Real Deals solo challenges in Madden 26. You'll need to earn 15 stars, which takes just a few games. Upon completion, you're given a fantasy pack offering a quarterback, cornerback, and Adams as a halfback.
Pro tip: Do NOT choose the quarterback. That's not even up for debate. Adams is the obvious choice, and for good reason - he is arguably the most overpowered (and entertaining) card in the game right now.
Anthony Adams Stats Breakdown
Let's be real - this card reads like a Golden Ticket on steroids:
Height/Weight: 6'0", 310 lbs (Yes, a literal D-tackle playing HB)
Speed: 99
Acceleration: 99
Carrying: 99
Catching: 94
Spin Move: 97
Juke Move: 98
Short/Medium/Deep Route Running: 99 / 98 / 99
This isn't just a power back. This is a power back with elite receiver stats, top-tier jukes, and the raw physicality of a nose tackle. Imagine Derrick Henry if he were fused with Alvin Kamara and then took a shot of whatever Bo Jackson was on in Madden 21.
Abilities Loadout: Broken is an Understatement
What pushes Adams from "good" to "absolutely game-breaking" is his ability stack, almost all of which cost zero AP:
Tank (0 AP)
Wrecking Ball (0 AP)
Evasive (0 AP)
Bruiser (0 AP)
Slot-O-Matic (0 AP)
Acrobat (0 AP - on a running back, yes)
Red Zone Threat (0 AP)
Goal Line Back (0 AP)
Angry Runs (1 AP)
Balance Beam (1 AP if used)
Many players won't even need to touch their AP limit to fully kit Adams. Whether you want to truck, juke, catch, or bulldoze, every possible playstyle is supported.
Gameplay Review: Absolute Carnage
In multiple matches, Adams routinely breaks three to four tackles per play, powers through full-blown run commits, and spins out of defenders like a ballerina in cleats.
In one game, Adams posted 20 rushes for 264 yards and 3 touchdowns, plus a receiving touchdown. He wasn't just scoring; he was embarrassing defenders.
Let's talk highlights:
Broken Tackles on Broken Tackles: Defensive linemen, safeties, linebackers - it didn't matter. Adams would shove them off like they were toddlers.
Wildcat Offense? Broken. Stud ran a few Wildcat formations with Adams, leading to massive untouched touchdowns. Defenses had zero answers.
Route Running Like a WR: With 99 route running across the board, Adams caught passes from Texas routes and deep slants like a seasoned wide receiver.
Even against Golden Ticket Michael Vick, the gameplay showed Adams was the most dangerous weapon on the field. He ran through blitzes, responded to run commits with yards-after-contact, and even cooked defenders in the pass game.
The Fun Factor: 10/10
Let's face it - Madden can be sweaty. Everyone's running the same meta plays, the same schemes, and using the same elite cards. Spice Adams adds a breath of fresh (and hilarious) air to the game. There's nothing more satisfying than watching your 310-pound back spin past three defenders and truck a safety into the ground on the way to a 70-yard TD.
He's not just good - he's fun. And that's something Madden has needed for a while.
Best Team Strategy with Spice Adams
If you're thinking about how to build around him, here's a solid setup:
Formation Ideas: Use Wildcat, I-Form Close, or Singleback Bunch for easy lead blocking setups. Wildcat especially forces confusion on defense.
Red Zone Threats: Lean into his 99 catch + Red Zone Threat and Goal Line Back. You can run or pass to him inside the 10 with ease.
Slot Motion: Use him like a slot receiver pre-snap. His route running allows you to fool opponents who expect a run but get burned on a Texas or drag route.
This isn't just a "spam HB dive" type of card - he can do it all. You can run a legit pass-heavy or hybrid scheme and keep him involved as your engine.Compared to Other Backs
There are some great backs in the game - Golden Ticket Bo Jackson, golden ticket Miles Garrett at RB (coming soon), and legends like Barry Sanders. But none of them come close to the versatility + bruising combo Adams brings.
Even high-speed elusive backs can't hold up under contact like Spice Adams can. And bigger backs like Henry don't have the receiver toolkit. He's better than every golden ticket, hands down.
One Small Gripe: Height
At 6'0", Adams is by no means short, but taller backs like Derrick Henry (6'3") get a bit more visibility and target range in the passing game.
Still, Adams more than makes up for that with his sheer bulk and footwork. You won't notice the height unless you're running fade routes in tight windows.
Final Verdict: Get This Card Immediately
If you play Madden 26 and haven't picked up Anthony "Spice" Adams yet, you're missing out on the most dominant free card of the year. Whether you're grinding online head-to-head or stomping the CPU, this card is a cheat code. And again - he's free.
Just play a few Real Deals solos, get your 15 stars, and choose the halfback. Don't overthink it. You'll be rewarded with a bruising back that moves like Barry Sanders and hits like Ray Lewis.
Why You Must Get Anthony "Spice" Adams:
Free through solos (15 stars)
99 Speed, 99 Accel, 99 Catch, 99 Carry - and more
300lb bulldozer that moves like a WR
Fully loaded with 0 AP abilities
Can run, catch buy madden coins cheap, juke, and truck like the best of them
More fun than any golden ticket
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Overpowered and Affordable: MUT 26’s Secret Weapon (2025-05-09)
Welcome back to another breakdown of all things Madden 26! Today, we're diving into the best value cards at every single position in the game. These aren't just your typical budget beasts — these are value monsters that offer elite performance without the million-coin price tags. If you're looking to build a God Squad without breaking the bank, this is the ultimate guide Madden 26 coins.
Let's jump into each position and break down why these cards deserve a spot on your team.
What's a Value Card?
Before we dive in, let's define what we mean by “value.” A value card sits a tier above traditional budget options. These players offer elite-level abilities and stats but come at a fraction of the cost of premium-endgame cards. We're talking about players in the 100–400k range that can hold their own in high-level MUT competition.
Quarterbacks: Bryce Young & Anthony Richardson
Bryce Young
Price: Slightly above 400k (expected to drop)
Why He's a Value: Bryce Young might be slightly above the strict value threshold, but his ability stack makes him elite. You get:
Dots X-Factor: Every pass is pinpoint accurate, including high balls.
Gunslinger (0 AP), Set Feet Lead (1 AP), Master Tactician (1 AP)
Additional zero-AP abilities like Gutsy Scrambler, Gift-Wrapped, and even Tireless Runner
This setup costs just 5 AP and turns Young into a field general with insane velocity and accuracy.
Anthony Richardson
Price: ~400k
Why He's a Value: Mobile, powerful, and extremely fun to use.
Tank (baked-in): Makes him a beast when scrambling.
Set Feet Lead (1 AP), Gunslinger (0 AP), Master Tactician (1 AP)
Great utility options like Roaming Deadeye, Gift-Wrapped, and Quick Draw
His stack only costs 4 AP, and he can sling it or run over defenders.
Running Back: Omarion Hampton
Price: ~130k
Why He's a Value: This rookie draft card is nuts for the price.
Grab and Go (0 AP), Slot-o-Matic (0 AP), Tank (0 AP)
Add Human Joystick and Bulldozer to round out the backfield dominance
That's an elite stack for zero AP. He's a dual-threat in the pass and ground game and offers incredible after-contact animations.
Fullback: William "The Fridge" Perry
Why He's a Value: A huge body in the backfield with trucking capabilities. Perfect for red zone plays, goal-line runs, and even lead blocks.
Tight End: Colston Loveland
Price: Great mid-tier option
Why He's a Value:
6'5" with 96 speed
Tank (0 AP) and Matchup Nightmare (0 AP)
Add Short In Elite, Mid In Elite, or Honorary Lineman depending on your offense
Even gets Secure Protector for extra blocking power
The stack is almost all 0 AP, making him a plug-and-play elite.
Offensive Line
The offensive line doesn't get the spotlight, but these value cards offer elite-level blocking and tons of 0 AP abilities:
Left Tackle: Kelvin Banks
Price: ~250k
Why He's a Value:
96s across the board in blocking stats
Up to 7 zero-AP abilities: Secure Protector, Nasty Streak, Edge Protector, and more
Left Guard: Joel Bitonio
Price: Moderate
Abilities: Puller Elite (baked), Secure Protector, All Day, Natural Talent, Nasty Streak
Center: Travis Frederick
Price: ~275k
Abilities: Identifier (0 AP), Secure Protector (0 AP), plus Post Up, Natural Talent, Nasty Streak
Right Guard: Gray Zabel
Price: ~170k
Abilities: Rookie card with Secure Protector, All Day, and Lynchpin
Right Tackle: Donovan Jackson
Why He's a Value: Right tackle is weak overall, but Jackson is the best option.
Secure Protector, Nasty Streak, All Day, and Natural Talent
Wide Receivers
Julio Jones (97 BND)
Why He's a Value: Hopefully, you grabbed the BND version from past content.
Red Zone Threat (baked), Tank (0 AP), Short In Elite (0 AP), Tireless Runner, Steamroller
Matthew Golden
Price: Budget-friendly draft card
Why He's a Value: 99 base speed and multiple zero-AP options like Short In Elite, Matchup Nightmare, Deep Out Elite
Tetairoa McMillan (T-Mac)
Why He's a Value:
6'5", 97 speed
Route Technician (0 AP), Third Down Threat (0 AP), Red Zone Threat, Human Joystick, Grab and Go
Elite after-the-catch threat and mismatch nightmare in the red zone.
Defense
Free Safety: Larry Wilson
Speed: 98
Abilities:
Pick Artist (0 AP), Flat Zone, Secure Tackler, Mid Zone, Deep Zone
All this for just 1 AP
Strong Safety: Isaiah Simmons
Why He's a Value: 6'4" with 97 speed
Acrobat (baked), Jukebox (baked), Pick Artist, Mid Zone, Deep Zone, Secure Tackler
Costs just 1 AP for a near-universal safety stack.
Cornerbacks
Maxwell Hairston
Promo: NFL Draft
Why He's a Value:
99 base speed, great man and zone
Flat Zone (0 AP), Mid Zone, Deep Out, Pick Artist
Patrick Peterson (Combine Promo)
Version: 96 or 99
Abilities:
Deep Out, Mid Zone, Pick Artist, Secure Tackler, Flat Zone
Byron JonesWhy He's a Value: Another solid outside CB that brings elite speed and KOs with zero AP Pick Artist, Mid Zone, and Secure TacklerConclusion: Build a God Squad Without the Coins
Madden 26's current landscape allows smart players to stack their rosters with elite-level cards without draining the coin bank. Between rookie promo cards, draft players, and well-priced veterans, you can get maximum performance out of minimal investment.
From Bryce Young's laser beam arm, to Julio's tank-like strength, and Isaiah Simmons dominating the secondary, this lineup proves that value doesn't mean sacrifice.
Keep your eyes on market drops
Madden coins, promo reruns, and special offers, and you'll keep finding cards that perform like endgame players for budget-tier prices.
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The RuneScape Update Deep Dive: 50 Small Changes (2025-05-04)
Old School RuneScape updates every single week - and while the flashy headline updates usually grab everyone's attention, the real game-changing updates are often buried in the "Other Changes" section. It's the hidden gems tucked away in these patch notes that end up having massive long-term effects on the game.Let's dive into 50 amazing "Other Changes" you might've missed over the years OSRS gold!
1. Easier Access in Lumbridge and Gnome Stronghold
Recent updates allow players to teleport straight to the top and bottom floors of Lumbridge Castle and the Gnome Stronghold - perfect for new players, early clue scroll hunting, and glider access.
2. Hardcore Ironmen's Lifesaver
If you DC in ToB or ToA while carrying a teleport crystal, it now automatically activates to save your hardcore status.
3. Tormented Signapse Reverting
You can now revert a Tormented Signapse to remake a different weapon without relying on risky player-killing tricks.
4. Be Careful with Emberlite
Dismantling Emberlite requires another 30 ancient shards to recreate it, so dismantle cautiously!
5. Baboon Venom Escape
In ToA, cursed baboons now give you an extra tick to escape before venoming you.
6. Disable Camera Shake
You can disable camera shake from the settings menu - a blessing for white light farmers at Chambers of Xeric.
7. Looping Emotes
Most emotes now have a looping animation. Fun fact: you can loop the party emote without dancing, keeping the special effects while switching gear!
8. Inventory Slot Locking
The deposit lock feature now lets you right-click and lock items directly in your inventory - perfect for quick-action activities.
9. Slayer Helmet as Warm Clothing
Good news for slayers: the Slayer helmet now counts as a warm clothing piece at Wintertodt!
10. Runecraft Pouch QoL
Runecraft pouches now auto-fill and auto-empty dynamically, making rune crafting on mobile way smoother.
11. No More Master Clue Cooldown
You can now instantly open another clue after receiving a master clue. No more awkward 30-second cooldowns!
12. Blighted Item Usability
Blighted supplies can now be used inside the Ferox Enclave and Mage Bank - great for pre-potting before boss fights.
13. God Wars Drops Last Longer
In private instances, GWD drops stay on the ground for three hours, letting you stock up on supplies.
14. Phoenix Pet Transmogs
Using 250 firelighters permanently unlocks phoenix pet recolors, streamlining pet customization.
15. Baba Pet Runs Fast
The Baba transmog is one of the few pets that can run - and if you switch it mid-run, other pets inherit the speed!
16. Old Torva Models Restored
Thanks to community demand, the original bulkier Torva armor look is available via a RuneLite plugin.
17. Faster Mahogany Homes
NPC Contact now offers a "last contract" option, making Mahogany Homes training much faster and easier.
18. Superior Slayer Monster Fix
Superior Slayer monsters will now properly spawn even if the original monster is killed against a wall.
19. Inquisitor's Mace Buff Restored
After community outcry, the promised Inquisitor's Mace buffs (2.5% per armor piece) were added properly - no set bonus required.
20. Run Energy Auto-Enable
You can now set an auto-run threshold so you automatically start running once your energy regenerates past a certain point.
21. Chambers Crystal Pickup
Ironmen can now pick up keystone crystals dropped by teammates during Chambers speedruns.
22. Gothics Rest Simplifications
Making Gothic's Rest drinks is now easier - cups fill with Humidify, heat with a range, and you can bulk-add herbs.
23. Trouble Brewing Brew Fix
Standing near Trouble Brewing no longer ruins your mature ale brews - goodbye wasted weeks!
24. Frog Tokens for XP
Kiss a frog during random events and get frog tokens. You can now bank them for future experience lamps!
25. No More Tithe Farm Decay
Fully grown plants at the Tithe Farm no longer decay - excellent for AFK players.
26. Ecumenical Key Selling
You can now sell ecumenical keys to the Lesser Fanatic for 61,500 GP each after completing the Hard Wilderness Diary.
27. Safer Shade Cremation
In Shades of Mort'ton, your cremation items stay on pedestals for five minutes - and only you can see them.
28. Salve Amulet Imbue Refunds
Lose an imbued Salve Amulet in the wilderness? You'll now get your nightmare points refunded!
29. Smash Vials Toggle
You can now toggle vial and pot smashing directly in settings - no more trips to Otto Godblessed.
30. Falconry Unlimited Access
Pay a one-time fee at the Falconry minigame for unlimited bird access - no more carrying around GP.
31. Lightbearer Ring Timing
Equipping a Lightbearer ring past 75% of special attack regeneration won't waste your energy anymore - just a slight loss if done earlier.
32. Collection Log Search
The collection log now has a search function - a lifesaver for tracking rare drops across 1,500+ entries.
33. Chaos Elemental Respawn Buff
The Chaos Elemental's respawn timer was shortened from 60 seconds to 15 seconds, making Dragon Pickaxe grinding way faster.
34. Rune Pouch Loadouts
Four different rune pouch loadouts let you instantly swap for any situation - absolute daily QoL.
35. Cerberus Keymaster Helper
Instead of running down each tunnel, talk to the keymaster to find which Cerberus room is free.
36. Barbarian Farming Shortcut
Barbarian farmers now offer farming training directly, no Seed Dibbler needed - awesome for Chambers runs.
37. Wilderness Boss Fee Persistence
Paying the 50,000 GP fee to access wilderness bosses now persists even if you leave and re-enter the wilderness later.
38. Expanded Gargoyle Aggression
Gargoyles (and desert lizards) now have slightly larger aggression ranges, improving AFK Slayer tasks.
39. Smarter Thralls
Thralls now follow you properly even in huge boss rooms like Zabak's - making DPSing with thralls more reliable.
40. Shades of Mort'ton Pedestal Fix
Items cremated during Shades of Mort'ton stay on the pedestals longer, giving more breathing room.
41. No More Trouble Brewing Brew Loss
If you're brewing a beer like mature greenman's ale near Trouble Brewing, your effects won't be canceled anymore.
42. Faster Keymaster Communication
The Keymaster in Cerberus now gives updates for all three tunnels without running back and forth.
43. Improved NPC Contact
Mahogany Homes contracts now show the "last contract" option when using the NPC contact spell.
44. Stackable Clues Coming
Master clues will soon stack - once again, fast openers will dominate Discord streams everywhere.
45. Phoenix Pet Color Unlock
Permanently unlock phoenix recolors by using 250 firelighters, making pet styling so much easier.
46. Ironmen and Keystone Crystals
Ironmen can now pick up dropped keystones during Chambers runs - speedrunners rejoice!
47. Thralls Target Bosses Better
Summoned thralls now prioritize boss attacks better rather than wandering aimlessly.
48. Faster Cerberus Pathfinding
Cerberus updates made checking for free boss rooms way quicker.
49. Automatic Run Activation
Set your run energy threshold so you don't have to constantly click the run button manually.
50. God Wars Supply Management
Drops in private GWD instances last for three hours, allowing long, sustainable sessions without wasted supplies.
Final Thoughts
RuneScape's massive updates often steal the spotlight, but these subtle "Other Changes" have arguably made the biggest positive differences in the game. From smoother clue scroll hunting to Ironman speedrunning improvements, small tweaks have quietly reshaped how we play.
If you learned something new today - whether it was one trick or fifty - consider it a good reminder to always read the patch notes, even the boring sections OSRS GP. You never know when a tiny footnote will end up being the biggest buff to your gameplay.
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Boosting Boss and Clear Speed in POE 2-ELD.gg (2025-04-26)
Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a masterpiece of ARPG evolution, and among its many innovative build options, the Storm Mage minion build stands out with its incredible clear speed, exceptional boss damage, and surprisingly smooth gameplay even without endgame gear. In this article, we'll dive deep into a live showcase of the Storm Mage's power, the gear, skill tree choices POE 2 Currency Orbs, weapon swapping mechanics, and a detailed skill setup for those looking to replicate or refine the build.
Let's start by giving you a feel for the performance.
Showcasing Clear Speed and Boss Damage
The Storm Mage build absolutely dominates mapping and bossing. Despite missing some optimal gear pieces, the damage output and clear speed are impressive. The current setup includes a six-link chest, level 18 gems, and a well-rolled weapon — although it's based on the wrong base type.
Running a T15 map with "minus maximum resistances" and "minions have critical strike chance" mods — arguably one of the harshest Citadel fights — the build still steamrolled through it. Even with low resistances and some suboptimal gear, it delivered excellent survivability and fast clear, setting the stage for the build's incredible scaling potential once optimized.
Gear Breakdown and Improvements Needed
Here's a quick rundown of the gear currently equipped:
Weapon: A strong scepter with solid spell-related stats. Ideally, it should be on a better base, but it's working well enough for now.
Helmet: +2 to Lightning Skills, but should ideally be a pure Energy Shield base.
Amulet: Very powerful, providing crucial stats and boosts to spellcasting.
Chest Piece: Decent, but still needs about 4,500 more Evasion to feel truly safe. Additional Dexterity and resistances are highly desirable.
Rings: One life/resist ring and an Unset Ring (not necessary). Ideally, both should pack life, resistances, and attributes like Dexterity.
Gloves: Wrong base — needs pure Energy Shield, plus Life and Resistances.
Belt: Life and Resistance focused, but again, wrong base type.
Boots: Wrong base, but good movement speed, life, Dexterity, and Resistances.
Freeze Immunity: Essential through a charm or crafting.
Despite all these imperfections, the build clears endgame content smoothly. With the proper bases and further gear optimization (like higher-level gems and better resistances), the build's potential skyrockets.
Skill Tree Choices and Weapon Swap Setup
Currently at Level 85, the skill tree focuses on a hybrid Evasion and Energy Shield setup. Instead of speccing into "Eternal Life" Keystone, the build uses "Filigree" for better Energy Shield recovery. Later, once enough Energy Shield is achieved through better gear, it'll respec into "Eternal Life" and regain additional survivability nodes like "Factory."
The jewel setup prioritizes Minion Damage, Cast Speed, and Attack Speed — key multipliers for both clearing and bossing:
Jewels:
Minion Damage + Cast Speed
Minion Damage + Crit (decent, but not ideal compared to Cast Speed)
Minion Damage + Energy Shield (no Crit or Attack Speed here)
An interesting twist: the build specs into weapon swap nodes, something uncommon for minion-focused setups. Here's why:
Weapon Swap 1 (Scepter and Shield): Primary setup for general gameplay with minions.
Weapon Swap 2 (Staff): Focused entirely on boosting Sigil of Power with increased Skill Effect Duration and Area of Effect.
With this, Sigil of Power becomes an incredibly powerful tool for bossing, laying down a large area that buffs your minions massively without interrupting your main setup.
Full Skill Setup
Here's the detailed breakdown of the skill and support gem setup:
Warrior Minions: Sacrificial Lamb + Death March
Sigil of Power: Magnified Effect + Persistence + Pain Offering (with Ablation and Font of Blood)
Main Storm Mage Setup:
Skeletal Storm Mages
Feeding Frenzy
Arcane Temple
Elemental Focus
Muster Support
Minion Mastery
Shock Bot: Purely to apply Shock via Conduction, Overcharge, Lightning Exposure, and Strip Away.
The Shock Bot is crucial for maximizing lightning damage, providing better scaling for all your minions' hits.
Defensive Layers:
Ghost Stance: Hybrid Evasion/Energy Shield recovery when hit.
Connectivity Focus: Curse and Hex application setup.
Convoluted Lessons: Energy Shield recharge via second weapon swap setup (even utilizing a bug for now that allows it even without an active swap).
Once the bug is patched, it'll act as a manual panic button during heavy incoming damage.
Terracotta Soldier: A strong Act 2 Lost City summon to supplement the build, focused on providing Muster Support to your Storm Mages.
Real Gameplay Footage
During the live gameplay showcase, it was clear the build could chew through tier 15 maps without a hitch. Despite scary resistance numbers and the harsh map mods, the build excelled at both clearing packs and melting bosses.
The main ritual and boss encounter showed how powerful the Sigil of Power setup is. Pop the sigil, spend mana to boost it, lay down buffs, and watch bosses get absolutely annihilated — all without needing high-end gem levels or perfect gear yet.
Notably:
The boss died quickly with only level 18 gems, meaning full endgame optimization would elevate this build to another level entirely.
Build Comparison: Storm Mage vs Frost Mage
It's important to note: while Frost Mages can theoretically deal insane damage through self-cast setups using Sigil Power, they deviate from true "minion builds." Essentially, you're playing a spellcaster instead of a summoner because you have to actively cast the Frost Mage's spells, making it a different playstyle altogether. Mana management becomes a real hassle, requiring strong regeneration setups (Lich ascendancy is best for this).
In contrast, the Storm Mage keeps the "minion summoner fantasy" alive: you summon your minions, empower them, and watch them do the work. No tedious manual casting loops or mana-starved panic moments.
Plus, the visual clarity of the Storm Mage setup makes it far more playable on mid-range PCs compared to Vulgars (which fill the screen with effects and tank performance heavily).
Written Build Guides and Future Updates
A full written guide is available online, covering every aspect from early leveling with the Lich minion setup to full endgame progression. It's continually updated for balance changes, new patches, and minor optimizations — so it's crucial to always double-check it when following the build.
Any future small tweaks, like possibly adding Fast Forward support on Ghost Stance or adjusting weapon swap mechanics once the bug is fixed, will be reflected in the guide immediately.
Conclusion
The Storm Mage minion build in Path of Exile 2 is an absolute powerhouse. With insane clear speed, strong bossing capabilities, and a true minion-focused identity POE 2 Divine Orbs, it's a fantastic choice for players looking to dominate both mapping and endgame without falling into the trap of awkward manual-cast setups.
Even in its unfinished form, it demonstrates excellent resilience, DPS, and quality-of-life — making it arguably one of the best real minion builds available right now.
If you love minions, powerful scaling, visual clarity, and a real summoner playstyle, the Storm Mage might just be your perfect match in POE 2.
Until next time, stay safe and keep rocking Exile.
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