PoE Builds 3.19: Frostblink Elementalist Build

What happens when a movement ability becomes your primary damage source? Welcome to this Path of Exile Build of the Week analysis. I’m Nancy from mmogah.com, and today we’re examining Devon752’s innovative Hotstepper Elementalist. This build transforms Frostblink from a mobility tool into a devastating ignition engine through clever damage conversion mechanics. The reworked Bronn’s Lithe unique body armor plays a pivotal role in pushing gem levels to unprecedented heights, allowing you to incinerate everything in your path with each teleportation.

So how does this unconventional approach function? Frostblink typically serves as an instant teleport that leaves chilled ground and deals cold damage to enemies. The breakthrough discovery is its exceptional scaling with gem level increases. Devon’s research demonstrates how to elevate the Frostblink gem to level 31, a detail we’ll explore thoroughly. The build then converts the entire cold damage output into fire damage, leveraging the Elementalist Ascendancy’s Shaper of Flames to guarantee ignites on every hit. The result is an exceptionally mobile playstyle that delivers satisfying clearspeed while maintaining solid defensive options through strategic passive tree choices.

Let’s dive into the damage mechanics that make this build exceptional. Achieving level 31 with Frostblink requires meticulous gear planning: one level comes from corrupting the gem itself, five levels from the reworked Bronn’s Lithe body armor, two additional levels from corrupted implicits on the same unique, and three final levels from Replica Cold Iron Point dagger. This progression transforms the skill from dealing 1144-1716 cold damage at level 20 to a massive 3830-5746 cold damage at level 31—representing over 230% damage increase purely from gem levels.

The ignition process requires strategic conversion stacking. We utilize Cold to Fire support gem for 50% conversion, then nearly complete the transformation using Pyre unique ring. Applying Turbulent Catalysts to the ring boosts its conversion to 48%, achieving 98% total cold-to-fire conversion. This near-total conversion is crucial because Shaper of Flames ensures all fire damage can ignite, regardless of the original damage source.

The final damage multiplier comes from Elemental Overload keystone. Maintaining consistent critical strikes activates this keystone for 40% more elemental damage. Reliable critical chance sources include Eldritch Implicits on gear, specific flask modifiers, and the Precision aura. For optimal performance, aim for at least 15% effective critical strike chance to maintain near-permanent uptime on this substantial damage bonus.

Successful implementation requires understanding common mistakes. Many players underestimate the importance of attack speed for smoother Frostblink cycling—aim for at least 20% increased attack speed from gear or tree. Another frequent error involves improper flask management; since this build relies on flasks for critical chance, learning to time your flask usage with dangerous encounters is essential for survival.

Gear acquisition follows a specific sequence: start with Replica Cold Iron Point and Pyre ring, then prioritize the corrupted Bronn’s Lithe with optimal implicits. The most challenging piece is the body armor with the correct corruption—expect to spend significant currency or trade for this component. For defensive layers, consider incorporating spell suppression cap, determination aura, and granite flask with increased armor modifier.

Advanced optimization includes weapon swapping for buff application, using Arcanist Brand with curses, and integrating Herald of Ash for additional clear. The build excels in mapping but requires careful positioning against endgame bosses. Practice the hit-and-run playstyle in lower-tier content before attempting difficult encounters to master the timing and positioning requirements.

No reproduction without permission：OnLineGames Guides » PoE Builds 3.19: Frostblink Elementalist Build Master Path of Exile's Hotstepper Frostblink Elementalist build with damage conversion and gem level scaling strategies