The countdown has begun for Path of Exile 2’s much-anticipated Early Access, arriving on 6th December 2023, available across consoles and PCs alike. With its reputation as one of the most celebrated action RPG franchises, the sequel promises to build on its predecessor’s legacy while introducing fresh, thrilling elements to captivate fans old and new. Here’s a closer look at why this game is sparking immense excitement.
A Bold Entry: Early Access vs Full Release
The Early Access version of Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) will feature three acts, while the full release, slated for sometime in 2025, will expand to six acts. With over 25+ hours of campaign content and a remarkable 50 boss fights, the EA version is designed to satisfy hardcore fans while giving a taste of what’s to come.
And the pricing strategy? A bit unconventional but brilliant. Early Access will set you back $30ish (maybe? hah), while the full game will be free, true to the franchise’s free-to-play model. For those still exploring the original Path of Exile, fear not—you don’t need to have played it to dive into PoE2. But since the original is free, why not give it a whirl in the meantime?
Features Tailored for Everyone
PoE2 boasts an impressive suite of features aimed at a wide range of players:
- Six unique classes at launch, each featuring two additional “Ascendancy Classes” for deeper customisation.
- A vast skill tree with 1,500 passive skills, allowing near-limitless builds and experimentation.
- Easy skill respecs, ensuring players can tinker without fear of costly mistakes.
- Couch co-op and crossplay functionality, making it easy for friends to join the fray across platforms.
Controls are flexible, too. Whether you’re a fan of point-and-click mechanics, WASD movement, or playing with a controller, the game caters to your preferences.
The Core Gameplay: Inspired by Giants
Developers have openly cited influences like Elden Ring and Diablo 2, aiming to capture the best of both worlds. Expect a challenging combat system (they’ve emphasised this won’t be an easy ride), complete with a checkpoint system right before bosses—a perfect balance between accessibility and tension.
The melee combat is touted as particularly strong, which should delight players who enjoy close-quarters action. And with 400 monster types roaming the beautifully designed environments, every encounter will test your wits and reflexes.
Technical Excellence & Accessibility
From a technical standpoint, PoE2 impresses:
- HDR support and fluid performance, running smoothly even on hardware like the Steam Deck at 40fps.
- 9 languages supported, ensuring a broad reach.
- Full integration with cross-progression, so you can seamlessly switch between devices.
There’s even PlayStation 5 Pro support, underlining the developers’ commitment to providing the best experience across platforms.
An Exciting Start to Early Access
The buzz around PoE2 is undeniable. With 30000+ new wishlists in just a week, the servers are expected to face a stampede on launch day. The developers are preparing for an intense launch, and fans are stocking up on popcorn for what promises to be a gaming event to remember.
Supporter Packs for PS5 launch the same day as Early Access, so fans eager to show their loyalty can do so. And for cosmetics enthusiasts, you’ll be able to try items before buying them—a small but appreciated touch.
Should You Play?
With over five years of development, Path of Exile 2 looks to deliver a polished, deeply engaging experience. Whether you’re a seasoned action RPG veteran or new to the genre, there’s something here for everyone. You don’t need to play the first game to enjoy this one, but its free-to-play model makes it worth exploring in the interim.
Mark your calendars for 6th December. This could very well be the RPG event of the year.