Path of Exile 2 – A New Era of Hack’n’Slash on Steam?

After years of waiting, the Early Access version of Path of Exile 2 has finally dropped on Steam, and players are already diving in. But is it worth the hype? Let’s break it down and see what makes it different from the original.

What Is Path of Exile 2?

In Path of Exile 2, you play as a hero from one of several classes, each with unique skills and abilities. The story takes place 20 years after the events of the first game. The world is still recovering from chaos, but it’s far from peaceful. There are new threats, political conflicts, and ancient evils lurking in the shadows, waiting for someone brave enough to challenge them.

The core gameplay focuses on exploring dark, dangerous environments, battling hordes of enemies, and collecting loot to upgrade your character. At first, you start with basic gear, but as you progress, you gather powerful weapons, armor, and skill gems that unlock new abilities. The game’s biggest strength is its customization. You can experiment endlessly to create the perfect character, whether you prefer raw strength, magical abilities, or a mix of both.

How Does It Differ From the First Game?

Path of Exile 2 feels like a massive leap forward, not just a slight upgrade. One of the first things you’ll notice is how much better the graphics are. The environments look more realistic, with stunning lighting and atmospheric effects that make exploring feel immersive. Combat is also much smoother, with animations that make every attack feel impactful and precise.

The skill gem system has been completely reworked. In the first game, gems were tied to your gear, which could be a hassle to manage. Now, they have their own interface, making it way easier to experiment with different setups without constantly swapping equipment. This change has been a huge hit with players.

The campaign has also been improved. The story feels more engaging, with deeper characters and more interesting quests. Unlike the first game, which sometimes felt like an endless grind, Path of Exile 2 gives you reasons to care about the world and the people in it.

Another big difference is the boss fights. They’ve been designed to challenge your skills with complex mechanics and multiple phases. Instead of just spamming attacks, you’ll need to think strategically and adapt to survive. These battles are tough, but they’re also incredibly satisfying when you finally win.

Official Trailer

What Are Players Saying?

The feedback on Steam has been mostly positive. Players love the upgraded visuals and smoother mechanics. The new skill gem system and more focused story are also getting a lot of praise. Many people feel like the sequel keeps the spirit of the first game while adding modern improvements.

There are some complaints, though. A few players have mentioned that the game can feel buggy, especially in multiplayer. Others feel that the grind-heavy nature of the game might still be off-putting for newcomers. But for the most part, fans of the genre seem to be having a great time.

Why Should You Play It?

Path of Exile 2 is perfect for anyone who loves deep character customization and challenging gameplay. If you enjoyed the first game, this one builds on everything that made it great while fixing a lot of its rough edges. For new players, it’s a fantastic entry point into the series, though it’s worth noting that the game isn’t exactly beginner-friendly.

The freedom to create your own playstyle is what makes this game so addictive. Whether you’re exploring dark dungeons, fighting epic bosses, or hunting for rare loot, there’s always something exciting to do. It’s a game that rewards creativity and patience, making every victory feel earned.

Final Thoughts

Path of Exile 2 isn’t just a sequel—it’s a full reimagining of what a hack’n’slash game can be. While the Early Access version has a few hiccups, the foundation is strong, and the improvements over the first game are undeniable.

If you’re looking for a dark, challenging, and incredibly rewarding experience, Path of Exile 2 is absolutely worth your time. Jump in, experiment with different builds, and lose yourself in this massive, hauntingly beautiful world.