Are you ready to kick off PoE 3.23 with a bang, or better yet, a flurry of arrows? If you've been eyeing those sleek, deadly bows but aren't sure how to start, you're in the right place. This guide is your ticket to a smooth, strong, and survivable league start as a bow user. And hey, we're not talking speedrunner level here; this is for you, the everyday hero of Wraeclast!

 

• Bows Changes in PoE 3.23
• What Makes a Good League Starter?
• Why Go for a Bow League Start?
• What Bow Skill to Pick?
• Progression
• Tips and Tricks
• Itemization
• Main Progression Points

 

↖ Bows Changes in PoE 3.23

• Blade Vortex Buff: Got a boost, meaning better damage at level 20. Think of it as a free level-up!
• Quality Changes: Some tweaks here and there, but nothing a savvy exile can't handle.
• Plague Bearer & Withering Step Buffs: These buffs mean more damage and better debuffs. Sweet deal!

 

↖ What Makes a Good League Starter?

A great league starter is like that reliable old car in your garage. It doesn't need fancy gear or unique items to get going. In solo self-found mode, if it thrives, it's a winner. But remember, league starters often shine brightest early on and might need a swap for the uber-late game content.

 

↖ Why Go for a Bow League Start?

Bows are like fine wine - they've gotten better with time. Especially for early game, they're now solid choices for league starts. Plus, transitioning to late-game bow builds (like Tornado Shot) is smoother than a silk robe.

 

↖ What Bow Skill to Pick?

• Galvanic Arrow for starters. Good damage, but keep in mind it's a close-quarters kind of deal.
• Rain of Arrows as your main leveling skill. It rains death from above - what's not to love?
• Lightning Arrow for the flashy (pun intended) transition in Act 7.
• Tornado Shot for the endgame - it's the ultimate bow skill with insane clearing speed and damage.

 

↖ Progression

• Start with Galvanic Arrow and Burning Arrow.
• Transition to Rain of Arrows at level 12.
• In Act 7, shift gears to Lightning Arrow.
• Once you're in maps and have some currency, consider moving to Tornado Shot.

 

↖ Tips and Tricks

• ManaForge Arrow: Your answer to not using totems. It auto-triggers and makes life a breeze.
• Totems: Great for single-target damage but not everyone's cup of tea.
• Trinity: This gem is a powerhouse for elemental builds. It's about balancing your elemental damages - think of it as a high-wire act.
• Non-Crit to Crit Transition: Start non-crit for stability, then switch to crit for the big damage numbers.

 

Ascendancies

• Raider: Great for new players. Fast, survivable, and decent damage.
• Deadeye: The speed demon choice. Better for experienced players who can handle its squishiness.

 

↖ Itemization

Focus on linked items and prioritize them above all. Look for flat damage on your bow and quiver, and don't forget about resistances and life on other gear.

 

↖ Main Progression Points

• Early Game: Focus on getting the right skills and links.
• Mid Game: Transition your skills and ascendancy as needed.
• End Game: Cap your resistances, boost your evasion and spell suppression, and prepare for the big leagues.

 

So there you have it, bow enthusiasts! This guide is your starting point for a successful bow journey in PoE 3.23. Remember, it's all about enjoying the ride, so pick your bow, notch your arrow, and let's make this league your playground!