Rift Assassin Build

The Rift Assassin is an extremely unconventional and experimental build that uses the Rift runeword's proc effects to create a unique "storm caller" playstyle. By wielding a polearm or scepter with Rift, the Assassin gains access to Tornado on striking and Frozen Orb on kill, essentially becoming a hybrid caster-melee fighter. While highly unusual and challenging, this build offers one of the most unique gameplay experiences by combining Assassin mobility with Sorceress-style elemental procs. First start by adding 1 point to the following skills: Phoenix Strike, Cobra Strike, Fists of Fire, Burst of Speed, Shadow Master, Mind Blast, Venom, Cloak of Shadows, Death Sentry, Lightning Sentry and Wake of Fire. Max out the following: Claw of Mastery, Dragon Claw, Fade and Tiger Strike.

With the Attributes, you can get a HellFire Torch and an Annihilus Charm. Then add Strength to be able to wear the gear, Invest some points in Dexterity until about 150 and no point in Energy. Also add the rest of the points to Vitality.

Weapon start with a Rift Runeword in a polearm. Cryptic Axe probably the best bet with low requirements. For your Armor, Enigma or Fortitude are your best bets. Helmet, you want a Shako or a Guillaume's Face. Gloves, a Steelrend, Dracul's Grasp or a Laying of Hands. Belt, you want to go for a Verdungo's Hearty Cord or a String of Ears. Boots, you want some Gore Riders or a War Traveler if you want some extra Magic Find. For your rings, you want to go for Raven Frost, Bul Khatos' or Rare Rings. Amulet, you want to go for a Highlord Wrath, Mara's Kaleidoscope or a Crafted Amulet with 20 Faster Cast Rate.

For your inventory, you want to get a few Martial Art Skill Charms. Life and Resistances for a few Small Charms. Annihilus and HellFire Torch are also very necessary.

Act 2 Mercenary, Might aura or Holy Freeze Aura. Helmet, Guillaume's Face or Andariel's Visage. Weapon, you want to get a Insight and for armor, an Ethereal Archon Plate Fortitude.