Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2 is the sequel to the popular free-to-play action role-playing game Path of Exile, developed by Grinding Gear Games. It is set in the same dark, fantasy world of Wraeclast, but with a number of new features, enhancements, and improvements that aim to expand on the foundation established by the original game.

Here are the key highlights of Path of Exile 2:

1. New Campaign

Path of Exile 2 introduces a completely new seven-act campaign. This will run parallel to the original game’s story, but it will feature a different set of characters and storylines. The game’s events take place 20 years after the original Path of Exile, so it will offer new locations, challenges, and lore.

2. Graphics and Engine Improvements

The sequel brings significant graphical upgrades, including enhanced character models, environments, lighting, and effects. The game uses an updated game engine to support better visuals and smoother performance, while maintaining the gritty and dark aesthetic that Path of Exile is known for.

3. New Skill System and Ascendancy Classes

Path of Exile 2 introduces an overhauled skill system, which offers more flexibility and variety in how players build their characters. One of the big changes is the addition of new Ascendancy classes that offer more options for specialization.

4. Unification of POE 1 and POE 2

In a unique twist, Path of Exile 2 is not a complete replacement of the original game. Instead, the two games will coexist within the same ecosystem. When Path of Exile 2 launches, players will be able to play either the original game's campaign or the new campaign. Both will use the same end-game content, such as the Atlas of Worlds, which will remain a central feature across both campaigns.

5. Skill Gems and Support System

The iconic skill gem system from Path of Exile returns in Path of Exile 2, but with improvements. This system allows players to combine skill gems and support gems in their equipment to customize their abilities in a wide variety of ways. While the core system remains the same, new additions will expand the possibilities even further.

6. New Items and Content

Path of Exile 2 will introduce new items, skill gems, and unique equipment. These will provide more variety and strategic depth to character builds. The endgame, including Endgame Leagues, will evolve alongside the new campaign and mechanics.

7. Improved Multiplayer Features

The game will continue to support online multiplayer, with improvements to party play, cooperative gameplay, and trading. Competitive gameplay through races and events is also expected to remain a big part of the game.

8. Free-to-Play Model

Like the original Path of Exile, Path of Exile 2 will be free-to-play, with microtransactions focused on cosmetics and other non-gameplay-affecting items. This model has been very successful for the original game, and Grinding Gear Games has confirmed that it will continue with the same approach for the sequel.

9. Continued Developer Support

Just like the original game, Path of Exile 2 will receive regular updates, expansions, and seasonal content (such as new leagues), ensuring that the game remains fresh and evolving over time.

Summary

Path of Exile 2 is an ambitious continuation and expansion of the original game, offering a new campaign, technical improvements, expanded customization options, and a more immersive world. It remains committed to the core values of Path of Exile—offering depth, complexity, and challenge for hardcore action RPG players.