Path of Exile 2 Early Access Review
Path of Exile 2 Early Access offers improved gameplay, deep character builds, and a challenging endgame, but needs loot system tweaks.
After playing Path of Exile 2 for just an hour, I knew I was going to enjoy it a lot. Grinding Gear Games, the team behind the original game, has returned with a sequel that feels exciting right from the start. Even though it’s still in early access and has a few bugs, the improved gameplay, new endgame systems, and detailed character builds already feel impressive.
Like most action RPGs, you’ll spend your time fighting monsters, taking down big bosses, and returning to town often to sell your loot. The current version has three acts, and you’ll need to play them twice—once on normal mode and again on a harder mode. That takes about 60 hours. After that, you enter the endgame, where stronger enemies and better rewards await. While there are some issues and unfinished parts my overall experience has been fun.
With strong creatures and gods attempting to rule the planet, the plot takes a well-known turn. Nevertheless, it features some intriguing people and unexpected scenes. Alva, a treasure seeker who enjoys adventure but always flees danger, was pleasant to meet. I also enjoyed learning about the Maraketh, a group of desert warriors. The second half of the story isn’t out yet, but what’s available now is enjoyable.
What really makes Path of Exile 2 great is the gameplay. You start by picking one of six character classes (with more coming later), and then you explore a huge skill tree with over 1,500 options. Developing your character is fascinating and in-depth. Fighting lizards, zombies and other strange animals is enjoyable, especially when you obtain strong loot. Every time you play, the maps are different, keeping the game interesting and new.
Despite being a lengthy and difficult game, Path of Exile 2 is also quite addictive. This is a game you should certainly try if you enjoy huge battles, amazing loot, and deep gameplay.
Experience Unique Playstyles with Every Class in Path of Exile 2
Compared to the first game Path of Exile 2 is far better and more enjoyable to play. You can now move more smoothly by using WASD keys & it has additional features like dodge-rolling to assist you evade strikes. Numerous minor adjustments have also been made to game to make it easier to operate.
In contrast to other games such as Diablo 4 where battles can feel a little monotonous this one feels more dynamic and interesting. Battles in Path of Exile 2, particularly those involving bosses, are more difficult and have a more authentic feel.
The class system in Path of Exile 2 adds to this complexity, with each class offering a unique playstyle that significantly impacts gameplay. Whether you choose the agile Ranger who dodges attacks and stays at a distance, the heavy-armored Warrior focusing on close combat, or the Mercenary, who turns the game into a top-down shooter with crossbows, each choice dramatically alters your experience. Playing as a Witch with a minion-focused build allowed me to help my undead comrades from the sidelines while they did the heavy lifting. In ARPGs, this degree of diversity is uncommon which adds interest and freshness to each class.
You can develop your character in Path of Exile 2 in a variety of ways. Powerful setups can be made by combining several gems and utilizing a large skill tree. Learning everything takes time but if you enjoy trying new things, it can be enjoyable and gratifying. There is still much to discover in the skill tree, even though certain sections are not yet complete.
One downside is the loot system. Good gear doesn’t drop often and when it does, it may not match your character’s needs. This can make the game feel slow especially at the start. You can trade with other players but that’s not always easy for people who play alone.
Even with these issues Path of Exile 2 is a great game for anyone who enjoys tough battles and building unique characters.
Hoping for More Generous Loot Drops in Path of Exile 2 Early Access
Although Path of Exile 2 has several intriguing new elements, loot system is still not very strong. Despite ability to modify equipment, item drops are still uncommon and frequently of little use to your character. This makes it difficult to feel rewarded, particularly when your build isn’t compatible with decent things. Trading with other players is an option, however it isn’t very helpful for lone gamers. As game progresses, hopefully, the loot system will get better.
The fact that you must repeat the first three acts in order to reach the endgame is another problem. The second option, referred to as “Cruel Mode,” can feel monotonous and repetitive because it only increases enemy levels without offering any difficulty. Starting with a stronger character could have been a quicker and more enjoyable alternative.
The good news is that the endgame is already full of things to do. The Atlas map gives you lots of areas to explore, with randomly generated maps, hidden bosses, and merchants. It’s like the original game, but better. You also get trials and a big boss fight, so there’s plenty to keep you busy after the main story.
There are still bugs and issues, like glitches and losing items after updates. These can be annoying, but they didn’t ruin my fun.
In the end, Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a great action RPG. If you don’t mind a few early access problems, there’s a lot to enjoy—especially the deep endgame content. Fans of the first game will likely enjoy what’s here so far.
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Pros and Cons of Path of Exile 2 Early Access
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 🎮 Smooth controls with WASD movement and dodge-roll | 🧤 Good gear is rare, even when you need it most |
| 🌳 Huge skill tree with many ways to build your character | ⚠️ Some skill trees are incomplete in early access |
| 🧙♂️ Unique classes with different playstyles | 🔁 Need to play the same acts twice to reach endgame |
| ⚔️ Challenging boss fights that feel real | 🐞 Bugs and glitches can affect gameplay |
| 🗺️ Procedural maps make every run feel new | 🔄 “Cruel Mode” just boosts enemy levels, not difficulty |
| 🧭 Interesting story characters and world to explore | 📖 Story feels familiar, not very fresh |
| 🏆 Content-rich endgame with trials, bosses, and surprises | 📉 Loot system feels slow and not rewarding early on |
| 🔧 Great for players who enjoy testing new builds | 🧍♂️ Trading system isn’t ideal for solo players |
Conclusion
Path of Exile 2 is already shaping up to be the sequel we’ve been waiting for. The gameplay is smoother, and the endgame is more developed. The first half of the story shows promise, though the setting feels a bit familiar. However, in early access, you’ll need to play through the first three acts twice to reach the endgame. The loot system needs improvement, and there are some technical issues. Despite this, Path of Exile 2 is still a fun game and a great step forward for the series.
