Last Epoch: What is Ward and How Does It Work

Last Epoch is the latest successful ARPG on the current market. It introduces many new systems, mechanics, and quality of life improvements that will make your gameplay better and smoother. One of those unique mechanics is called Ward. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about it.

What is Ward in Last Epoch?

Ward is essentially a magical shield that provides a defense layer above your HP pool. It is essentially the same as the Energy Shield in Path of Exile, but how it works has different mechanics. If you have Ward, getting hit with instances of damage will deplete your Ward meter before affecting your HP. It's generated through specific gear or skills, with the potential to accumulate without limit. The presence of Ward is visually indicated by a bluish tint over the health circle, accompanied by a numerical value that reflects the current level of protection.

How Does Ward Work in Last Epoch?

In Last Epoch, managing Ward effectively is crucial for enhancing your character's survivability. Initially, players start without any Ward, but it can be generated through various skills, effects, and specific gear. For example, as a Warlock, I can gain Ward by channeling Ghost Flame.

Every class has different skills and passives that will help you generate and retain your Ward. Additionally, different items feature two stats that assist with your Ward: 'Ward Per Second' and 'Ward Retention'.

Ward Retention is key to slowing down Ward's decay rate. For instance, 200% Ward Retention means your Ward lasts twice as long, while 400% retention triples its duration. Without any Ward Retention, a character loses half of their current Ward every 1.73 seconds. Furthermore, some items offer Ward regeneration, passively increasing your Ward level. This creates a "resting level" for your Ward, towards which it will naturally gravitate. Without Ward Retention, every 2 points of Ward regeneration increase this resting level by 5, enabling your Ward to recover exponentially when it falls below this level.

To optimize Ward management, focus on combining Ward Retention and regeneration strategies through careful item selection, leveraging passive trees, and enhancing intelligence attributes. This approach not only slows Ward depletion but also ensures a constant, regenerative shield to protect against incoming damage, offering a dynamic layer of defense that adapts to the intensity of battle.

And that concludes our guide on what Ward is and how it works in Last Epoch. Remember, every class has different skills and passives that will provide you with Ward, but the Ward Per Second and Ward Retention stats are the same for everyone. For more Last Epoch guides, check the rest of our website.