Understanding how to allocate ascendancy points and passive skill tree nodes is vital for maximizing the Essence Drain Lich's potential, especially when balancing damage and defense while considering your "poe 2 currency" investments.

The recommended ascendancy path begins with Solar Swarm, which improves mana sustain and supports the use of Mind Over Matter during early leveling. Eternal Life is the second pick, but only once you have sufficient energy shield gear to benefit from it. Eldritch Empowerment follows to enhance damage output, particularly for the damage-over-time effects of Essence Drain.

The final ascendancy point should ideally be a jewel socket, allowing for powerful jewel customization that can further boost damage or defense. Avoid nodes like Rupture the Soul, as they can interfere with Contagion chains and reduce overall clear speed.

The passive skill tree progression focuses initially on percent damage nodes, then transitions into mana regeneration and Mind Over Matter support. Once energy shield gear is acquired, invest heavily in energy shield nodes to increase survivability. This transition aligns with the gear progression strategy, which emphasizes acquiring high energy shield pieces such as body armor, gloves, and boots.

Managing "poe 2 currency" effectively means prioritizing gear that offers the best energy shield and damage stats for your budget. Using weighted sum searches to find optimal gear upgrades can help you avoid wasting currency on suboptimal items.

By carefully planning your ascendancy and passive tree choices alongside smart currency management, the Essence Drain Lich can become a powerful and durable build suitable for both solo and group play.

Recommendation: U4GM - Efficient Leveling and Gear Progression for the Essence Drain Lich