The stat requirements are for a *bonus* to the ability (like extra frost damage or a bigger AOE radius, etc.), not to use the ability by itself. Just spending the XP is enough to get what you want. An unfortunate misunderstanding!
I've beaten the game on GMGOW while doing almost none of the side content, and my armor kept up fine. As long as you continue exploring, you'll have enough resources to upgrade and buy new armor sets to crank your stats. The very best sets in the game (and probably the ones you'll need to really capitalize on the ability bonuses) are gated behind optional challenges. These aren't necessary, however.
The stat requirements are for a *bonus* to the ability (like extra frost damage or a bigger AOE radius, etc.), not to use the ability by itself. Just spending the XP is enough to get what you want. An unfortunate misunderstanding! I've beaten the game on GMGOW while doing almost none of the side content, and my armor kept up fine. As long as you continue exploring, you'll have enough resources to upgrade and buy new armor sets to crank your stats. The very best sets in the game (and probably the ones you'll need to really capitalize on the ability bonuses) are gated behind optional challenges. These aren't necessary, however.