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Are you looking for a powerful and versatile build in Path of Exile that emphasizes self-casting and maintaining multiple auras? Look no further than the Self-Cast Ice Nova Occultist build. Unlike other variations that rely on power stacking or unique mechanics, this build focuses on the raw power of self-casting and strategic use of Ice Nova. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create your own Self-Cast Ice Nova Occultist build without fancy gimmicks, allowing you to dominate your enemies with sheer force.

Ice Nova is an area of effect spell that, by default, causes your character to rush into the middle of a group of monsters when used. However, this play style comes with a significant drawback. Rushing into the midst of enemies without sufficient damage output can be risky, especially when facing tough foes. This is where the unique Astral Projector Topaz Ring comes into play. By equipping this ring, you gain the ability to choose where the explosive skill activates, effectively offsetting the biggest drawback of Ice Nova. The Astral Projector Topaz Ring is a worthwhile investment, and you can acquire it for a reasonable price of around 8 Chaos Orbs.

Similar to the Freezing Pulse skill, Ice Nova becomes incredibly potent once you assemble the necessary components. Its ability to quickly and efficiently clear maps is unmatched by most other skills. However, it is crucial to ensure that you have adequate damage output against single targets. With this build, Ice Nova becomes an all-encompassing skill that excels in most areas of Path of Exile. If you prefer map-centric gameplay, this cold damage-based build will greatly stabilize your map progression.

Now, let's delve into the steps to create your own Self-Cast Ice Nova Occultist build:

Choose the Occultist Ascendancy: The Occultist Ascendancy offers several benefits that synergize well with Ice Nova. Profane Bloom increases your area of effect damage and causes cursed enemies to explode, dealing additional chaos damage. Vile Bastion grants energy shield regeneration and immunity to stun and ailments while you have energy shield. Wicked Ward provides energy shield recharge and prevents energy shield recharge delay.

Focus on Cold Damage: As this build revolves around Ice Nova, prioritize passive skill tree nodes and gear that enhance cold damage. Look for modifiers like increased cold damage, cold damage over time, and increased spell damage. Additionally, prioritize gear with high energy shield values to maximize survivability.

Utilize Multiple Auras: Managing multiple auras is a key aspect of this build. Auras like Hatred, Discipline, and Malevolence will greatly enhance your damage output. Use the Blasphemy support gem to apply curses such as Frostbite or Elemental Weakness to further amplify your damage.

Gem Setup: Set up your skill gems to optimize Ice Nova's performance. Link Ice Nova with support gems such as Controlled Destruction, Hypothermia, Elemental Focus, and Concentrated Effect for increased damage. Enhance your survivability with defensive gems like Cast when Damage Taken, Immortal Call, and Increased Duration.

Seek Cold Damage Leeched as Energy Shield: Look for gear or passive skill tree nodes that provide "Cold Damage Leeched as Energy Shield." This will allow you to sustain your energy shield while dealing damage, further increasing your survivability.

Acquire Key Unique Items: In addition to the Astral Projector Topaz Ring, consider obtaining other unique items that synergize well with the build. Examples include Shavronne's Wrappings for low-life builds or Vertex for increased energy shield and reduced mana reservation.

Flasks: Choose flasks that enhance your survivability and damage output. Consider using flasks that grant increased elemental damage, freeze immunity, and energy shield recovery.

Playstyle: With this build, strategic positioning is crucial. Cast Ice Nova from a safe distance, utilizing the Astral Projector ring to control its explosion location. Maintain your auras and curses to maximize damage output. Take advantage of your energy shield and Occultist's defensive abilities to mitigate incoming damage.

By following these steps, you can create a formidable Self-Cast Ice Nova Occultist build in Path of Exile. Embrace the power of self-casting and the versatility of Ice Nova, while maintaining multiple auras to obliterate your enemies. Remember, buy POE Currency from P2Pah, and this build will give you the tools you need to succeed, whether you're exploring the map or facing off against a tough boss. Good luck, Exile!