Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) made its much-anticipated debut in early access on December 6, and the timing couldn’t have been better. With the first significant snowstorm of the season keeping many indoors, players have had the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in this new title. Within just four days, I found myself logging nearly 30 hours of gameplay—a testament to the game’s gripping nature.
As a member of the action role-playing game (ARPG) genre, PoE 2 offers an enticing blend of hacking, slashing, looting, leveling, crafting, and questing. My journey with ARPGs began with Diablo 2, a game that has set a high bar for the genre over the past 24 years. Despite numerous attempts by other titles to replicate its allure, none have quite succeeded. This is where PoE 2 steps in, presenting itself as a worthy contender.
What makes Path of Exile 2 so appealing to a Diablo 2 snob?
Having advanced two characters into the third act of PoE 2, I have yet to explore the endgame content, but the thrill of discovering unique class abilities and their synergies keeps me engaged. The game encourages cooperative play, yet it is entirely feasible to tackle challenges solo. The initial act, however, presents a formidable challenge. Starting as a washed-up character with minimal resources, players quickly realize that survival requires strategy and skill.
The difficulty level is palpable; enemy levels do not scale with your character, meaning that a moment’s inattention can lead to overwhelming encounters. The final boss of Act 2 serves as a significant hurdle, reminiscent of the infamous Duriel from Diablo 2. Each boss encounter in PoE 2 is designed to be a test of skill, with telegraphed attacks that demand player awareness and precision.
Embracing the game’s challenges has proven rewarding. As players familiarize themselves with the mechanics, the experience becomes more manageable. Returning to earlier zones to grind for upgrades can significantly enhance a character’s capabilities. The game’s support gem system allows for creative combinations, enabling players to experiment with diverse playstyles early on. The passive skill tree, while initially daunting, offers a wealth of customization options that can be adjusted with relative ease.
For some players, the friction may stem from the contrast between PoE 2 and more casual ARPGs like Diablo 4, which allow for a more relaxed gaming experience. In contrast, PoE 2 demands attention and strategy, creating an immersive environment that can easily consume hours of gameplay.
Path of Exile 2 is in early access, and there’s still a lot of work to be done
Grinding Gear Games is actively addressing player feedback, rolling out hotfixes to improve gameplay. Initial concerns regarding scarce loot and currency drops have been met with adjustments that enhance the overall experience. Changes to the map system and dodge mechanics aim to streamline gameplay, reducing unnecessary downtime while maintaining the game’s inherent challenge.
As PoE 2 continues to evolve, it is clear that the developers are committed to refining the balance and content. With a strong foundation already in place, the game is poised for further enhancements. Visually stunning and rich in detail, PoE 2 offers a unique experience that distinguishes it from its predecessors. Each monster reacts differently to various damage types, and the diverse environments contribute to a sense of exploration and discovery.
Running smoothly on PC and even compatible with gaming handhelds, PoE 2’s controls and audio-visual elements exceed expectations. As a free-to-play title following its early access phase, it presents an enticing opportunity for both veterans of the genre and newcomers alike, potentially marking the end of my long-standing relationship with Diablo 2.