As excitement builds for the launch of Path of Exile 2’s early access, it’s clear we’re in for a fantastic year if you’re an action RPG enthusiast. Just look at how Last Epoch and Diablo 4 have captivated players, with Diablo 4’s Vessel of Hatred adding significant depth. Now, the sequel to one of the most celebrated PC games ever is nearly here. Before the big reveal of Path of Exile 2’s content this week, I had the opportunity to chat with the game director, Jonathan Rogers, about what went into choosing the features for launch.
With the early access content reveal for Path of Exile 2, we’re getting an in-depth look at the game’s expansive world. We’ll initially be welcomed by six of the 12 classes the full RPG will eventually have, each featuring two ascendancies. For now, the first part of the Path of Exile 2 campaign will be available, which players will repeat on a more challenging difficulty upon completion – a decision made because the developers shifted focus earlier this year to deliver a fulfilling endgame experience right from the start.
Rogers explained the reasoning behind this decision to introduce a “cruel” difficulty level to help players reach level 65 before diving into the endgame content. “We want the early access phase to reflect the game’s true nature,” he shared. He emphasized the importance of using this stage to test the campaign’s progression thoroughly, noting, “The choice to change priorities wasn’t easy, but necessary and will ultimately benefit us.”
At the launch’s endgame, we’ll engage with four key mechanics: Breach, Ritual, Delirium, and Expedition, all familiar to veteran players but evolved for this sequel. Additionally, two new ‘trials’ expand into significant endgame systems, eventually allowing players to take on uber bosses and a pinnacle encounter, testing their builds to the limit.
These systems have been meticulously designed with unique features: Ritual introduces a new crafting method to enhance other items, while Delirium provides ‘distilled emotions’ to unlock passive skills outside the typical progression path. “Having choices in the endgame is crucial,” Rogers remarked, pointing out how crucial variety is to keep the content engaging. What they have assembled is merely what they see as the minimum requirement for that diversity – crafted thoughtfully within the Atlas, the endless map driving endgame progression.
One of the most striking changes in Path of Exile 2 is the revitalized Atlas. It’s evolved from the original game’s map while maintaining the exploration spirit it was supposed to embody. Rogers reminisced, “I wanted that exploration thrill in the endgame, something like Delve.” Balancing different maps posed its own challenges, as they aimed to avoid player tendencies to only focus on the ‘best map,’ an issue without perfect solution where the Atlas now shines.
“The goal was to mix a sense of guided exploration with freedom,” Rogers explained. This approach is realized through the Atlas towers, which enable players to chart their course or manipulate map features with tablets. “If we’ve done our job well, there’s always another exciting option just ahead.”
So, if you’re particularly fond of Expeditions, you might wonder whether you can consistently engage with it. Rogers assured, “As long as you’re crafting your maps and tablets, you’ll sustain, absolutely. You might need to adapt your playstyle, ensuring your build is robust, but endless enjoyment within your favorite mechanics is possible.”
Crafting in Path of Exile 2 sees a notable shift from the original game, with the removal of gem sockets on equipment being a prime example. Rogers admitted, “It’s not as complex as it was before, but we want players to feel empowered by every facet of the game.” Now, the sockets play a role similar to the old crafting bench, and Rogers is eager to see players’ reactions to these significant changes.
“We often struggled to balance crafting between player expectations and designer satisfaction,” Rogers noted. The new socket system, however, appears to strike a harmonious balance, appealing to both players and creators.
Another shift includes more accessible crafting materials, encouraging early players to experiment rather than hoard currency. “It took a change in mindset to make formerly rare items more common,” Rogers explained, reflecting on the economic adjustments.
The selection of initial classes for early access was partly practical, admitting, “We picked six classes closest to readiness, but also to cover major playstyles.” The Druid class was notably absent, a decision Rogers found regrettable but assures it will arrive soon.
The task of equipping each class with unique items and mechanics was immense, prompting the team to defer some content while prioritizing quality.
The redesign of Path of Exile 2’s passive skill tree, the series’ iconic feature, was more laborious than anticipated. The updated tree boasts greater uniqueness, with distinctive clusters not found elsewhere.
A small tweak from the first game involves starting areas being unique to each class, ensuring a tailored experience depending on the player’s chosen path. “It’s about avoiding wasted potential in player stats,” Rogers noted.
Path of Exile 2 enhances skill combos and interactions significantly, encouraging players to use multiple abilities. Rogers hopes this design steers the game away from solitary skill reliance, promoting strategic play and synergistic builds.
Rogers indicated much of the unlaunched content is nearly complete, with plenty of enemies and bosses available right from the start. With more than 400 enemy types and 50 bosses at launch, anticipation is sky-high as we count down the days to the full Path of Exile 2 release.
Addition of a premade build feature remains uncertain for early access, “It’s there somewhere,” Rogers mentioned, hopeful it will soon get the attention it deserves.
Path of Exile 2’s early access starts on Friday, December 6. Although the full game will be free-to-play, early access requires purchasing a supporter pack starting at $30. Loyal supporters who have spent over $480 in the first game gain automatic entry as a token of appreciation. For details, check Grinding Gear’s early access FAQ.
Prepare for the game’s launch with our Path of Exile 2 system requirements guide and be on the lookout for Path of Exile 2 Twitch drops for bonus cosmetics. Follow us on Google News for the latest in PC gaming news, reviews, and guides, and catch our PCGN deals for great savings.
