Certainly! Here’s a summary of the text provided by Cal Tac regarding the Thorns mechanic in Path of Exile 2:
Thorns Mechanic Overview
- Thorns Function: Thorns is a mechanic that allows players to deal damage back to enemies that hit them with a melee attack.
- Damage Calculation: The damage dealt by Thorns is independent of the damage taken from the enemy’s attack and is solely based on the Thorns skill level.
Changes to Thorns in Path of Exile 2
- Support Skills: Compared to Path of Exile 1, Thorns in Path of Exile 2 has more support skills available.
- Equipment Impact: Thorns damage can now be triggered by all types of hits, including ranged and spell attacks.
Thorns Passive Skills and Equipment

- Passive Skills: There are 13 passive skill nodes that directly impact the Thorns mechanic.

- Unique Equipment: There are five unique items that can enhance the Thorns mechanic.

Challenges with Thorns
- Equipment Limitations: Thorns damage can only be rolled on shields, belts, and body armor, limiting its scalability.
- Skill Gems: There are skill gems that can enhance the Thorns mechanic, such as Scavenged Plating.


Thorns Experience in Practice
- Leveling Process: Cal Tac shares his experience using the Thorns mechanic from level 1 to level 16, including the gear and skill gems he acquired at different levels.
- Boss Fights: The Thorns mechanic performs well in some boss fights but is less effective in others due to the type of attacks used by bosses.
Conclusion
- Potential of Thorns: Despite some situations where Thorns underperforms, Cal Tac believes it has potential in Path of Exile 2, especially with more support skills and equipment.
- Future Plans: Cal Tac plans to continue exploring the Thorns mechanic and sharing his progress.
This text provides an in-depth analysis and personal gameplay experience with the Thorns mechanic in Path of Exile 2, suitable for players interested in game mechanics.