Mastering the Infernalist in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a game that rewards strategic thinking and deep character customization. Among the various subclasses and playstyles, the Infernalist stands out as a fascinating and powerful option for players who enjoy manipulating the battlefield and wielding otherworldly powers. This guide delves into the Infernalist subclass, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to help you dominate the seas of Deadfire.
What is an Infernalist?
The Infernalist is a subclass of the Sorcerer in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire. Unlike traditional sorcerers who rely on innate magical abilities, Infernalists derive their power from binding and commanding powerful otherworldly beings, such as familiars and summons. This unique approach makes them versatile and formidable in both combat and exploration.
Key Features of the Infernalist:
Familiar: Infernalists gain a permanent familiar companion that can scout, distract enemies, or even participate in combat.
Summoning: They can summon powerful creatures to fight alongside them, adding a tactical layer to battles.
Abilities: Infernalists have access to spells that manipulate the battlefield, debuff enemies, and buff allies.
The Strengths of the Infernalist
Versatility: Infernalists excel in both single-player and multiplayer settings. Their familiars and summons can adapt to various combat situations, making them a valuable asset to any party.
Crowd Control: Their spells and summons are excellent for controlling crowds, allowing you to manage multiple enemies at once. For example, the Chill Fog spell can slow down enemies, giving your party time to react.
Summoned Allies: The ability to summon creatures like Fire Beetles or Wolves provides additional damage dealers or tanks, reducing the pressure on your main characters.
The Weaknesses of the Infernalist
While the Infernalist is a powerful subclass, it has some drawbacks:
Resource Management: Summoning and maintaining creatures requires careful management of Planeswalking resources. Overextending can leave you vulnerable.
Dependence on Summons: If your summons are defeated or disabled, you may struggle to contribute effectively in combat.
Limited Direct Damage: Infernalists are more focused on support and crowd control rather than dealing direct damage, which can be a downside for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle.
Tips for Playing an Infernalist
To get the most out of your Infernalist, follow these strategies:
Experiment with Familiars: Different familiars have unique abilities. For example, the Imp can deal fire damage, while the Eye excels at scouting. Choose one that fits your playstyle.
Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Spells like Chill Fog and Fireball are more effective when used in tight spaces or against clustered enemies.
Combine Abilities: Pair your summons with debuffs like Slicken to create chaos on the battlefield. This approach can turn the tide of a difficult fight.
Case Study: Building an Infernalist
One effective Infernalist build focuses on crowd control and summoning. Here’s a quick overview:
Race: Dwarf for their resilience and ability to withstand damage.
Class: Sorcerer (Infernalist) with a focus on Constitution and Perception.
Abilities: Prioritize spells like Slicken, Chill Fog, and Summon Fire Beetle.
Equipment: Equip gear that enhances your Will and Resolve to improve your spellcasting and mental defenses.
Advanced Strategies
For experienced players, consider the following advanced tactics:
Kiting: Use your familiar to lure enemies into traps or dangerous terrain while your summons and spells finish them off.
Debuff Stacking: Combine multiple debuffs like Slicken and Chill Fog to create zones of control that hinder enemy movement and attack speed.
Summon Rotation: Cycle through different summons to adapt to the battlefield. For example, switch to a tankier summon when facing heavy hitters.
Conclusion
The Infernalist is a rewarding subclass that offers a unique playstyle in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire. By mastering their abilities, managing resources effectively, and leveraging the power of their summons, you can become a formidable force on the battlefield. Whether you’re