If you’re a fan of action RPGs, it’s hard to ignore the noise surrounding Path of Exile 2 (PoE2). People are talking — and for good reason. While some may grumble about paid content, I see it differently. To me, this is PoE2’s first true season. It feels like Grinding Gear Games (GGG) is being upfront about their approach, and honestly, I respect that.
But let’s get straight to the heart of it — this game is incredible. It’s the kind of ARPG experience that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place. The combat, the balance, the mechanics — every detail feels thoughtful and refined. Dare I say it? Path of Exile 2 makes other so-called “dark” ARPGs feel, well… dim in comparison.
Gameplay that Hooks You In
Right now, the community is buzzing about certain builds, and if you’ve been online lately, you’ve probably seen all the hype around the Mercenary. People are calling it “broken” or “overpowered”, but I chose a different path — I went with the Ranger, and I’m loving every second of it. Sure, it’s not the most “meta” pick right now, but honestly, that’s part of the fun. The Ranger offers a tactical experience where you’re constantly making choices on the fly.
One of the most creative mechanics is the Lighting Rods. They scatter across the battlefield, and if you place them well, they link up to form a deadly electric grid. It’s not just flashy — it’s clever. The game doesn’t just reward raw power; it rewards strategy. This is the kind of design that separates PoE2 from other ARPGs. It’s not just about mashing buttons — you’re always thinking two steps ahead.
That being said, it’s not all smooth sailing. Playing a ranged class comes with its own set of challenges. The moment a melee enemy closes the gap, you can feel the pressure. Sometimes it’s a single hit and — boom — you’re gone. I mean, that’s just how brutal it is. Some people might find that frustrating, but for me, it’s part of the thrill. Knowing that every decision matters makes the victories feel so much sweeter.
Balance and Class Design
One thing I really respect about PoE2 is its sense of balance. No class feels completely useless, but you can definitely feel the power gaps between them. Summoning builds, for instance, seem to be struggling a bit right now. Summoners are traditionally a safe bet in ARPGs, but in PoE2, they feel more vulnerable. Meanwhile, melee classes feel punchy and visceral. The hit feedback is spot on — you feel every swing.
But balance isn’t just about classes. It’s also about how the game plays online. Unfortunately, connection issues can sometimes sour the experience. If your internet lags, you’ll notice it right away — especially when dealing with poison or other damage-over-time effects. It’s a reminder that no game is perfect, but thankfully, it’s not a deal-breaker.
Why Path of Exile 2 Feels So Special
It’s been a long time since I felt this way about an ARPG. I’m not just playing PoE2 — I’m thinking about it even when I’m not playing. The level of depth, polish, and care GGG has poured into this game is undeniable. Every design choice, from combat mechanics to class identity, feels intentional. It’s not flashy for the sake of being flashy — it’s functional, thoughtful, and fun.
So, if you’re still on the fence, take this as your sign: Play it. If you loved the old-school “dark” ARPGs of the past but felt let down by modern releases, I promise you — Path of Exile 2 delivers. This is the game we’ve been waiting for.
