The Ultimate Guide to the Most Powerful Diablo 4 Endgame Thorns Necromancer Build

The Necromancer isn't typically the first class players consider when discussing Thorns damage, but these practitioners of life and death surprisingly have synergy with damage reflection. While not as powerful as some other Diablo 4 Necromancer setups, the fact that it is effective justifies creating a build around it.

The following is a variation of the Shadow Summoner build that heavily relies on bonuses from items and skills. It remains centered around dealing Shadow damage and, overall, it functions similarly to other minion builds in Diablo 4. Here's a breakdown of all the components that contribute to the success of this build.

Thorns Necromancer Build Main Skills

Reap enhances the Necromancer's personal damage mitigation against enemy attacks, although such instances are infrequent due to the presence of numerous minions in battle. Nonetheless, having this ability proves beneficial. If desired, players can opt for Acolyte's Decompose as an alternative choice to attain more concrete advantages.

Blight enhances minion damage and hinders enemy movement when they are on it. Together with Iron Maiden, these are the primary sources of damage for this build, along with Thorns and the minions. Apply Iron Maiden to an area and witness the impressive damage output.

Bone Storm primarily serves as a defensive mechanism. It creates a protective Barrier for the Necromancer through the Aspect of Shielding Storm, offering additional damage mitigation. Prior to engaging in combat with large packs, elite groups, or bosses, activate Bone Storm.

Passive Skills

The passive abilities of this build offer various benefits such as increased Shadow damage, improved effectiveness of minions, enhanced durability for the player, and an increased amount of Thorns from the Spiked Armor skill. The Book of the Dead upgrades enable Skeletal Defenders and Bone Golem to inherit 50% of the player's Thorns, while Shadow Mages activate the Shadowblight effect and all associated bonuses.

Start by initiating battles using the Iron Maiden and provoking opponents with the Bone Golem. Ensure to distribute Blight throughout to amplify the harm inflicted on adversaries. Afterwards, position oneself in the center of the area while maintaining the Bone Storm in motion. Sustain the longevity of the minions by constantly summoning Skeletons.

For optimal results, position oneself close to the Shadow Mages to fully utilize the Hellbent Commander passive ability. These minions are the primary source of damage, excluding the Thorns damage, hence, prioritize their protection and ensure their survival at all times.

Gear and Aspects

The wearer's Thorns damage is significantly enhanced with Razorplate. However, it doesn't provide strong defensive capabilities as a tradeoff. Considering players position themselves behind their minions, the lack of defense offered by this Unique shouldn't have a substantial impact in most situations. While this item is not essential, players have the option to replace it with any chest piece that possesses a Thorns affix.

Decay and Blighted significantly enhance the damage caused by Blight and Shadowblight procs. It also boosts the effectiveness of Bone Storm since its Ultimate Shadow transforms it into a Darkness ability. Frenzied Dead aids Shadow Mages in triggering Shadowblight more frequently, while Hardened Bones ensures the prolonged survival of all minions.

Regarding gear, prioritize acquiring higher Thorns stats on the chest piece, pants, and amulet. Additionally, helmets and rings feature affixes that augment the amount of Thorns that Skeletal Warriors and Golems inherit from the player, so focus on maximizing these as well. Embed Emeralds into armor pieces and Skulls onto jewelry to further increase Thorns and Armor.

It is difficult to determine if Needleflare triggers upon minion hits. This build will be revised once a conclusive answer is obtained. Meanwhile, it is recommended to use Disobedience with the equipped shield.

Paragon Boards

Start by selecting nodes on the board that enhance damage resistance and place the Warrior into the Glyph Socket. By doing this, the Skeletal Warriors will benefit from increased armor, enabling them to withstand more damage without the immediate need for healing or revival.

Afterwards, acquire the Legendary Node, Glyph Socket, and minion-related bonuses adjacent to the Cult Leader board. Use the Abyssal for augmented Shadow damage for both the Necromancer and Shadow Mages.

At this point, players have the option to select between Wither and Flesh-eater. Both options can support the Revenge Glyph, which heightens the damage inflicted on enemies after being struck by Thorns damage. Wither primarily enhances Shadow Damage over Time effects, while Flesh-eater boosts overall damage after consuming five Corpses.

Diablo 4 is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.