Path of Exile 2 Launches in Early Access This November
Path of Exile 2, the highly anticipated action role-playing game (ARPG) sequel from Grinding Gear Games, is finally set to make its debut in early access. The announcement was made during Gamescom’s Opening Night Live ceremony, revealing that the game will be available to players on November 15, 2024. This marks a significant milestone for the sequel to the beloved 2013 title, Path of Exile, which has garnered a massive following due to its complex gameplay, deep customization, and continuous updates.
The road to early access hasn’t been smooth for Path of Exile 2. Earlier this year, Grinding Gear Games announced that the closed beta for the game would be delayed, citing that the team had “underestimated” the amount of time needed to polish the beta build before it could be released to players. This delay reflected the developer’s commitment to delivering a high-quality experience, ensuring that the sequel lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor. Despite the early access date now being confirmed, no information has been shared regarding an open-beta phase, leaving fans eagerly awaiting further updates.
A Fresh Yet Familiar Experience
Path of Exile 2 builds upon the foundation laid by the original game while introducing several new features designed to both enhance and streamline the experience. The sequel will offer a brand-new six-act campaign, presenting players with a fresh narrative set in the dark and gritty world of Wraeclast. This new campaign will coexist alongside the original Path of Exile’s storyline, giving players the option to choose between the two when starting a new character.
One of the most notable changes in Path of Exile 2 is its approach to character customization, particularly in its famously intricate passive skill tree. The sequel aims to make these complex systems more approachable for newcomers while maintaining the depth that hardcore fans love. A major innovation is the “dual specialize” feature, which allows players to invest skill points based on their currently equipped weapon. This means characters can automatically switch between different skill sets depending on the weapon they wield, adding a new layer of Path Of Exile Currency tactical decision-making and customization to the gameplay.
The sequel will also introduce 12 new classes, each offering unique playstyles and progression paths. Additionally, the revamped skill gem system will provide players with even more ways to personalize their characters, making every build feel distinct.
Continued Support for the Original Game
Even with Path of Exile 2 on the horizon, Grinding Gear Games has assured fans that support for the original Path of Exile will continue. Both games will receive ongoing content updates, allowing players to enjoy a parallel but distinct ARPG experience. This dual-support approach ensures that the community around the original game remains vibrant while offering something new and exciting in the sequel.
Cross-Play, Cross-Progression, and Console Co-Op
Path of Exile 2 will also embrace modern gaming conveniences, including cross-play and cross-progression between platforms, allowing players to seamlessly continue their adventure whether they’re on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or PC. For console players, the addition of splitscreen co-op promises a more accessible way to experience the game with friends, bringing the cooperative fun of ARPGs to the POE Exalted Orbs couch.
The free-to-play model, which contributed significantly to the success of the original game, will remain in Path of Exile 2. Players can expect a robust and expansive ARPG without the need to spend money, with monetization focusing on cosmetic items rather than gameplay advantages.
Conclusion
Path of Exile 2’s early access launch on November 15, 2024, marks a new chapter for the series, promising to deliver a refined and expanded experience while retaining the core elements that made the original so beloved. With its new features, continued support for the original game, and expanded accessibility options, Path of Exile 2 is poised to captivate both veterans and newcomers alike, setting the stage for the next evolution of this iconic ARPG franchise.
