PoE 2 Patch 0.2: The Strongest Smith of Kitava Build – Dawn of the Hunt Edition

With Patch 0.2 hitting Path of Exile 2 during the Dawn of the Hunt expansion, many players are re-evaluating their builds to adapt to the shifting meta. One build, however, has risen to the top of the pack with incredible momentum—the Smith of Kitava. This powerhouse melee archetype has been refined to poe2 trade new heights in the current patch and now stands as one of the strongest builds for both campaign progression and endgame content.

If you're looking to bring the wrath of Kitava to Wraeclast with devastating melee strikes and fiery chaos, this guide will break down everything you need to know about the best version of the Smith of Kitava for Patch 0.2.

Why the Smith of Kitava is Top-Tier in Patch 0.2

The Smith of Kitava has always been a fan favorite, but Patch 0.2 introduced several subtle but crucial buffs that pushed it into S-tier territory. Most notably:

Improved scaling on fire-based melee skills such as Infernal Cleave and Blazing Slam

Buffed ignite duration and damage, making damage-over-time more effective

New crafting and forging mechanics that directly benefit weapon-wielding melee builds

These changes synergize perfectly with the Smith’s core identity: a brutal melee fighter who channels the unrelenting rage of Kitava into his strikes.

Core Build Concept

This build revolves around high fire melee damage, strong ignite scaling, and sustained life recovery through hits. The centerpiece is a combination of:

Infernal Cleave as the primary AoE skill

Molten Impact or Blazing Slam for high single-target burst

Smith-exclusive forging mechanics to empower your weapon and armor

By utilizing two-handed weapons forged through the Kitava system, you maximize raw base damage and capitalize on fire scaling from the passive tree and support gems.

Ascendancy and Passive Tree Highlights

In Patch 0.2, the ascendancy nodes that enhance ignite effect, life leech, and weapon empowerment are stronger than ever. Key picks include:

Forged in Wrath – Increases fire penetration and ignite damage

Molten Core – Boosts damage while ignited and grants life on ignite

Anvil of Kitava – Offers additional weapon forging options and utility bonuses

Your passive tree should focus on fire damage, attack speed, area of effect, and life—a balanced blend that ensures survivability and massive DPS.

Gear and Crafting Strategy

With crafting becoming even more accessible in this patch, forging a high-damage weapon early is essential. Look for modifiers like:

Increased fire damage

Added fire to attacks

Chance to ignite

Critical strike chance (for stronger ignites)

Armor should focus on life, resistances, and armor rating. Crafting through the Smith’s forge system allows for powerful endgame scaling without needing expensive uniques.

Performance in Mapping and Bossing

This version of the Smith of Kitava melts through packs with Infernal Cleave and easily bursts down bosses with high ignite stacking. It’s a versatile build that performs consistently across all stages of progression—from leveling to mapping and late-game arenas.

Final Thoughts

In PoE 2’s Patch 0.2, the Smith of Kitava is not just viable—it’s one of the strongest and most satisfying builds available. With the buffs to cheap POE 2 Orbs fire mechanics and forging tools, this character is capable of carrying you through all content with style, brutality, and blazing efficiency.

Whether you're a returning veteran or starting fresh in Dawn of the Hunt, this is the build to beat.