Mastering skill link optimization in Path of Exile is essential for improving both your offensive output and your ability to survive difficult encounters. This step-by-step guide provides actionable advice on creating effective gem link setups.

Step 1: Identify your main skill that forms the backbone of your build. Choose one that aligns with your class and build goals, such as Glacial Cascade for spellcasters or Heavy Strike for melee.

Step 2: Select support gems that increase your main skill’s damage. Consider options like Increased Critical Strikes, Increased Critical Damage, or Added Physical Damage, depending on your damage type.

Step 3: Incorporate defensive support gems. Fortify Support grants damage reduction on hits, while Cast when Damage Taken linked to Immortal Call can trigger automatic temporary immunity to damage.

Step 4: Add utility supports such as Increased Area of PoE Currency Effect or Faster Casting/Attacks to improve skill range or speed.

Step 5: Manage resource costs by using supports like Reduced Mana Cost or planning your passive tree and gear to sustain your skills.

Step 6: Experiment with quality-enhanced gems for additional bonuses. For example, quality on Support Gems can increase the damage or effect of linked skills.

Step 7: Regularly upgrade gem levels and revisit your setup after acquiring new gear or reaching higher content tiers.

Step 8: Test your skill link combinations in various game scenarios, such PoE 1 Currency as boss fights or map clearing, to gauge effectiveness and survivability.

By following these steps, you can build a skill link setup that improves damage output while keeping you alive in POE’s challenging environment.