Path of Exile 2: A Comprehensive Guide for New and Returning Players

Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) is one of the most anticipated games in the action RPG genre, developed by Grinding Gear Games. As a direct sequel to the immensely popular Path of Exile (PoE), the game promises to take everything fans loved about the original and improve upon it. With Path of Exile 2 being a massive expansion to the PoE universe, it introduces a plethora of new mechanics, features, and content for both new players and veterans of the series to explore.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about Path of Exile 2, from its core mechanics and gameplay to the new features and what makes PoE 2 different from its predecessor. Whether you're a returning player or a newcomer to the game, this article will help you understand the basics of PoE 2, get you prepared for its challenges, and offer tips to excel in the game's world of Wraeclast and beyond. Read this article to help you more easily earn rewards like POE 2 Currency.

What is Path of Exile 2?

Path of Exile 2 is an action RPG that builds upon the foundations of Path of Exile. Set in the same dark fantasy world of Wraeclast, PoE 2 will feature a new storyline, fresh content, and expanded gameplay mechanics, while retaining the same core systems that made the original game such a massive success.

While PoE 1 took players through a series of challenges and endgame modes, PoE 2 will offer a new 7-act campaign with a fresh narrative that follows a different set of characters and events. One of the exciting aspects of PoE 2 is its full integration with Path of Exile 1, meaning that players who continue their journey in PoE 2 will still have access to their characters and items from the original game.

Key New Features in Path of Exile 2

1. A New Campaign with a New Storyline

The most notable difference in Path of Exile 2 is the new 7-act campaign. This campaign features a new story set twenty years after the events of PoE. The narrative follows a new set of characters and introduces players to fresh challenges, storylines, and villains. Players will traverse new environments and areas while uncovering the dark secrets of Wraeclast. The acts will include both familiar and entirely new regions, with revamped visuals and more intricate environments.

2. New Character Classes: Ascendancy Revamp

In PoE 2, the character classes have been revamped. While the 7 base classes (Marauder, Ranger, Witch, Duelist, Templar, Shadow, and Scion) remain, there's a shift in how the Ascendancy classes work. PoE 2 will introduce a complete overhaul of Ascendancy options, creating more flexibility and power in the choices that players can make when customizing their builds.

The new Ascendancy system will allow for more hybrid class options and a broader range of playstyles. Players can choose dual-class options that blend the best parts of different skill trees, enabling more creative freedom in crafting their characters.

3. Updated Skill System and Passive Tree

The skill system in PoE 2 has been significantly overhauled. The Skill Gem system, which was a hallmark of Path of Exile, will return, but with improvements. Many new gems will be added, and existing gems will be revamped for a smoother, more dynamic experience.

The Passive Skill Tree has also received some changes. There will be a new branching system that offers more choice and adaptability, allowing players to experiment with various builds more freely. Expect a better balance of skills and talents, with additional ways to synergize your class with the new Ascendancy system.

4. Visual Upgrades and Engine Improvements

Path of Exile 2 introduces a significant graphical overhaul. The game will run on an upgraded engine with improved visual effects, smoother animations, and more immersive environments. These upgrades are not just for aesthetics-they will make gameplay more responsive and dynamic, especially for endgame content where intense combat and large-scale battles are common.

The revamped lighting effects, environmental details, and character models will enhance the overall experience, making the world of Wraeclast feel more alive than ever before.

5. New Endgame Mechanics

PoE 2 will offer more endgame content, including a new set of systems for players to enjoy. While the Endgame Labyrinth, Maps, and Abyss League systems will be retained, PoE 2 introduces more avenues to explore. The Endgame Atlas has been redesigned with new challenges and boss fights, providing even more replayability and content for long-term players.

Players will also be able to experience fresh Endgame Bosses, with unique mechanics that force you to rethink your strategies. The addition of new mini-games, leagues, and game modes will also keep players engaged for countless hours.

How to Get Started in Path of Exile 2

Whether you're new to the game or a veteran of PoE 1, getting started in Path of Exile 2 will require a good understanding of the core mechanics. Here's a quick overview of how to start your journey in PoE 2:

1. Choose Your Class

At the start of your journey, you'll choose a character class. The classes are as follows:

Marauder: Strength-based, focused on brute force and physical damage.

Ranger: Dexterity-based, excelling at ranged attacks and speed.

Witch: Intelligence-based, specializing in spellcasting and elemental damage.

Duelist: A hybrid class focused on both physical damage and dexterity-based skills.

Templar: A tanky class focused on both strength and intelligence, ideal for spellcasting with physical defenses.

Shadow: A stealthy assassin, blending dexterity and intelligence for poison-based builds.

Scion: A balanced hybrid of all attributes, offering versatility for advanced players.

Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it's important to pick a class that suits your playstyle. New players may prefer starting with a more straightforward class like Marauder or Ranger, while veterans may enjoy the versatility of the Scion.

2. Choose Your Ascendancy

After selecting your class, you will eventually choose your Ascendancy, which defines the way your character grows and develops. This is where PoE 2's hybrid Ascendancy system comes into play. Instead of having fixed paths, you can create a character that blends aspects of two or more classes.

Some Ascendancies will focus on damage dealing, others on defensive strategies, and some may focus on support roles. The choices you make here will impact your character's build and playstyle significantly.

3. Master the Skill Gem System

The Skill Gem system remains a core part of PoE 2. Skill Gems are magical orbs that grant you abilities, and these gems can be socketed into your equipment to modify your character's powers. You'll need to collect these gems, level them up, and combine them in your gear to create powerful combos.

Keep in mind that as you level up, you'll gain more Skill Gems and be able to experiment with new ones. The Support Gems will allow you to add special effects to your abilities, such as increasing damage, adding elemental effects, or granting extra buffs.

4. Progress Through Acts

Like PoE 1, Path of Exile 2 features a multistage campaign. You'll progress through various acts, each with its own set of quests, challenges, and bosses. The acts will introduce you to new mechanics, items, and powerful bosses.

While progressing through the acts, you'll encounter a wide variety of enemies and endgame bosses that require you to adjust your build and tactics accordingly. As you level up, you'll gain new passive skills, items, and Skill Gems to continue building your character into a powerhouse.

5. Engage in Endgame Content

Once you've finished the main story, PoE 2 will introduce you to endgame content, which includes boss fights, dungeons, maps, and more. The endgame is where PoE 2 really shines, offering massive replayability and challenging content for players who want to test their builds.

From league challenges to seasonal content, there will always be something to do. The Endgame Labyrinth remains one of the toughest challenges in PoE, and there will also be new challenges introduced in PoE 2 for even more exciting content.

Tips for Success in Path of Exile 2

Experiment with Builds: PoE 2's vast skill tree and Ascendancy system allow for a huge variety of builds. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find what works best for you.

Focus on Survival Early On: PoE 2 can be brutal, especially for new players. Make sure to focus on defensive options (such as resistances, life regeneration, and block) while leveling up before committing to high-damage builds.

Learn the Economy: The game features a robust trading system. Learn how to poe2 trade efficiently and take advantage of the market to acquire valuable items.

Join a Community: PoE 2's community is one of its greatest strengths. Join online communities or forums to get tips, tricks, and build advice, or simply to enjoy the game with others.

Conclusion

Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a groundbreaking entry in the action RPG genre. With its revamped skill system, overhauled Ascendancy mechanics, and exciting new content, it offers players both familiar and novel experiences. Whether you're a new player looking to get into the world of Wraeclast or a returning veteran, PoE 2 promises to deliver deep, rewarding gameplay that will keep you engaged for hundreds of hours.