3.26 Vortex of Projection Archmage Hierophant League Starter and Progression

This Guide incorporates some tips on getting faster league starts and some stuff I will personally be trying out this league. If you are not comfy with weapons swaps feel free to just run frostblink/flamedash and possibly shield charge instead. Leveling Tips ACT I Killing Hillock on Ranger to pick up momentum is recommened for better early leap slam movement.(Takes 2 mins and gets you some extra loot to sell or use) Standard Rolling Magma with Fire Wall with a few included weapon swap options to allow for good leap slamming. 3 Link Rolling Magma, Combust, Elemental Prof will carry you till Archmage. If you happen to get an early 4 link blue throw on arcane surge. Most early gear will have Energy Shield on it so it will be easier to roll blue slots. If you can try to get mixed stats so you have a little more tankyness. ACT II-III If you want to grab both herald of ice and thunder you can for the added damage but just one should do. After getting the crafting recipe in Lunaris Temple II craft your axe/swords with Lightning damage added to spells(Craft will make weapons lvl 24 req) (This is a bit different than Arma leveling where you would take the Fire Damage. It helps make sure Wave of Conviction procs Lightning exposure) Archmage swap You can swap in Firestorm as early as 28 for Rolling Magma. If you get 4 link with all blue throw in intensity instead of inspiration. Running two mana flasks for a bit after the swap can help with mana sustain and make using MoM much easier when getting swarmed. ACT VI+ Eternal blessing aura can switch between Haste, Wrath, or Purity of Elements depending on if you need more speed, damage or survivability. Maps The first setup with be a 2 button build unless you can make the kitava swap with the vortex of projection all at once. You can roll with Firestorm for a bit into white maps but the damage will fall off if you push it. I would start the swap with profane wands first. Either pick up a few cheap ones and use some cast speed essence on them. Then go for a 5 link body that you can craft some defensive stats on. Recombinator will help getting some great Profane wands and general crafting. Endgame Progression Tips Endgame progression will start by focusing more on mana craft and cast speed on gear while balancing any needed res. Included some of my later crafts from Settlers League as example Upgrade to Atziri Foible after getting Careful Planning (Dex problems get solved with Careful Planning) Unique Gems Progression Careful Planning > Healthy Mind > Unnatural Instinct > The Light of Meaning (General recommended upgrade based on Stat/Price) I'll add in some additional information as questions come up and as I progress the build this league. Happy League Start everyone! If you stay with it long enough you too can farm up a Mage Blood and rule the world!