Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) is almost here!

With Early Access launching December 6th, the excitement is palpable for fans of the franchise and ARPG enthusiasts alike. Grinding Gear Games (GGG) is promising a bold evolution of the original, blending the best aspects of PoE1 with new systems, enhanced visuals, and gameplay refinements. As someone who loved the variety of Path of Exile 1’s endgame but grew weary of the repetitive campaign grind, I’m thrilled—but cautious—about what’s to come.

Here’s everything you need to know about Early Access, what’s changed, and what lies ahead.

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How To Get Into Early Access

Head to Path of Exile to explore the available supporter packs. Each pack offers Early Access as well as exclusive in-game cosmetics and perks.

What’s Changed from Path of Exile 1?

If you’ve played PoE1, you’ll know it’s a deep, complex, and sometimes punishing ARPG. PoE2 builds on that foundation but shakes things up in a big way. Here’s what’s new:

1. Dual Campaigns

One of my biggest complaints about PoE1 was having to slog through the campaign repeatedly. PoE2 solves this by introducing a brand-new seven-act campaign alongside the original. You can choose either campaign, and both lead to the same shared endgame. Unfortunately, jumping straight into the endgame isn’t an option, so we’ll still need to work through the campaign when leveling new characters. On the bright side, this time it will at least feel fresh and new.

1. Graphics Overhaul

Let’s be honest—PoE1’s visuals, while functional, were dated. PoE2 looks amazing. The updated graphics engine makes everything from environments to character models look cleaner, sharper, and more immersive. Combat animations have also been improved, so every hit feels impactful.

1. Boss Fights Got a Makeover

Boss fights are no longer just about overwhelming damage. PoE2’s encounters are more complex, with multi-phase mechanics and telegraphed attacks. Some of the previews remind me of Elden Ring—which is both exciting and a little worrying. While I love a challenge, I’m not sure how well drawn-out, punishing boss fights fit into PoE’s fast-paced loot-hunting gameplay.

What I Loved About PoE1

• The Endgame

For me, the campaign in PoE1 was always a means to an end. The maps, with their random modifiers and constant variety, were the real draw. I could spend hours grinding through maps, tweaking builds, and chasing loot.

• Seasonal Leagues

GGG absolutely nailed it with their league system. Each new mechanic—whether it was Heist, Delirium, or Harvest—brought a fresh layer of gameplay to the table. Personally, Metamorph was my favorite; there was something so satisfying about crafting your own monster and the unpredictable chaos that came with it.

• Crazy Build Diversity

PoE1’s skill tree and crafting systems made it possible to create some absolutely wild builds. Whether I was min-maxing for hardcore content or messing around with off-meta ideas, there was always something new to try.

What I’m Nervous About with PoE2

• Boss Fights Feeling Too Elden Ring

I love a good challenge, but PoE’s magic lies in its speed and loot grind. If I’m stuck learning a boss’s phases for 10 minutes, it’s going to feel like I’m hitting a roadblock in my gameplay flow. I just hope these encounters don’t drag down the pace of the game.

• Balancing Accessibility and Depth

PoE1’s complexity was both a blessing and a curse. It gave the game insane replayability but also made it intimidating for newcomers. PoE2’s streamlined systems, like the new skill gem mechanics, sound great, but I hope GGG doesn’t strip away too much of the depth that makes the game special.

• Still Stuck Running the Campaign Again

I’m really upset about having to grind through the campaign again to level up a new character. Even with a fresh campaign, it’s still a process that could feel repetitive over time. It would have been great if there was a way to skip straight to endgame content once you’ve completed the campaign on one character.

What’s Next for PoE2?

Even after Early Access, PoE2 has a long road ahead. Here’s what to look forward to:

• Expanded Endgame

GGG is improving the Atlas of Worlds, with new mechanics and content that’ll keep hardcore players busy for years. If you loved mapping in PoE1, this is where the real fun begins.

• More Ascendancy Classes

PoE2 will launch with additional ascendancy classes, giving us even more build variety. I can’t wait to see how these shake up the meta.

• Seasonal Leagues

Just like PoE1, the sequel will continue the tradition of adding new leagues every few months. These updates keep the game fresh and encourage players to return regularly.

• Potential Multiplayer Upgrades

PoE has always been a mostly solo experience, but GGG has hinted at improving multiplayer. Whether that means better party features or more social systems, it’ll be interesting to see how they handle it.

Final Thoughts

Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a bold step forward for the franchise, with revamped systems and dual campaigns addressing some long-standing issues from PoE1. The upgraded visuals and expanded endgame promise hours (or let’s be honest, hundreds of hours) of content. However, I can’t say I’m feeling particularly optimistic. The new approach to boss fights, combined with the requirement to grind through the campaign again for every new character, has me more cautious than excited.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, grab a supporter pack and prepare for December 6th. Wraeclast is waiting—but I’m still deciding if I’m ready to answer the call.

FGM –