Path Of Exile 2: Early Gameplay Thoughts

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Post on Dec 06, 2024

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Path of Exile 2: Early Gameplay Thoughts

Path of Exile 2 is finally here, at least in its early access phase. Grinding Gear Games has delivered a significant expansion, rather than a sequel in the traditional sense, building upon the already complex and rewarding core gameplay loop of PoE. This article shares some early gameplay thoughts after several hours exploring Wraeclast once more.

A Familiar Yet Fresh Feeling

The immediate impression is one of familiarity. The core mechanics – the satisfying thwack of a well-placed hit, the intricate skill tree, the loot-driven progression – remain largely unchanged. This is a huge positive for existing players. Grinding Gear Games hasn't thrown the baby out with the bathwater; they've built upon a solid foundation. However, the new aspects woven into the fabric of the game subtly shift the feel. The new skill gems, ascendancy classes, and the influence of the five empires provide tangible differences.

New Skills and Ascendancy Classes: A Breath of Fresh Air

The new skills and ascendancy classes are a welcome addition, offering diverse playstyles and buildcrafting opportunities. While I haven't had the chance to fully explore every option, initial impressions suggest a significant increase in build diversity. This is crucial for maintaining the longevity of the game, preventing it from becoming stale. The changes feel substantial and well-integrated, rather than tacked on as an afterthought.

The Impact of the Empires

The influence of the five empires – The Vaal, The Templar, The Mariner, The Warlord, and The Crusader – adds a layer of strategic depth. Choosing which empires' items and modifications to prioritize is crucial. This not only affects the stats and attributes of your character, but it also influences the overall gameplay experience. It's exciting to see how these empire-specific items interact with the existing items and builds. This element encourages experimentation and rewards those who delve deep into the crafting system.

Early Impressions of the Campaign

The new campaign is longer and feels more epic in scope. The storyline, while still shrouded in mystery for me, is engaging and hints at greater narrative depth than previous expansions. The new areas are visually impressive, offering a varied and engaging experience. The enemy design is similarly impressive, featuring diverse and challenging encounters.

Challenges and Improvements

While the early gameplay is highly enjoyable, some challenges remain. The initial learning curve, particularly for new players, remains steep. The sheer depth of the game can be overwhelming, especially with the addition of new systems and mechanics. The game could benefit from improved in-game tutorials.

However, the improved user interface is a significant improvement, streamlining many aspects of the game that felt clunky in the past. Navigating the skill tree and managing your inventory feels more intuitive.

Conclusion: A Promising Start

Path of Exile 2's early access release is a strong showing. It successfully expands upon the already compelling core gameplay loop of its predecessor, adding layers of depth and complexity without losing the charm that has captivated millions. While it isn't a complete overhaul, the changes are substantial enough to justify the hype. The new skills, ascendancy classes, and the impact of the five empires provide significant changes to the way players engage with the game. It's a highly promising start, and I'm eager to explore everything this expansion has to offer. With more playtime, my opinion may evolve, but for now, it feels like Grinding Gear Games has delivered on its ambitious promises. This is a truly worthwhile experience for both veteran players and newcomers alike.