Summoner builds in Path of Exile 3.26 remain one of the most beginner-friendly yet endgame-viable archetypes. With PoE 1 Currency proper passive tree planning, minions can scale to deal massive damage while keeping the player relatively safe.

Choosing Witch into the Necromancer ascendancy offers immediate synergy. On the passive tree, prioritize "Minion Damage," "Minion Life," and "Minion Attack/Cast Speed" nodes. Routes through "Spiritual Command" and "Death Attunement" are core for scaling both quantity and quality of summons.

Skeleton Mages, SRS (Summon Raging Spirits), or Absolution all benefit from different passive focuses. For SRS, cast speed and duration nodes are useful, while Skeleton Mages scale better with elemental and crit-related bonuses.

You’ll also want to incorporate utility minion passives. “Redemption” and “Righteous Army” provide valuable auras, resistances, and life regen for your minions—especially useful in higher-tier maps where survivability becomes harder to manage.

Cluster Jewels with bonuses like “Feasting Fiends” or “Renewal” further improve minion damage and life leech. Additionally, jewel sockets near "Grave Intentions" can be filled with Ghastly Eye Jewels for bonuses like blind on hit or taunt.

Auras like Determination, Vitality, PoE Currency or Discipline are often used to support minion and player survivability. Make sure your passive tree allows for Mana Reservation Efficiency through small clusters or the “Sovereignty” wheel.

With solid passive planning, a summoner build allows you to dominate endgame content while maintaining a safe distance from direct danger. It’s an excellent option for players seeking both comfort and power.