Path of Exile 2 emerges not as a simple expansion but as a full-fledged sequel to the original ARPG titan. It is a standalone game featuring a completely new six-act campaign, a host of new systems, and a fundamental reimagining of core mechanics that have defined Path of Exile for over a decade. While it exists separately from the original game, it will share the same launcher and, crucially, all previously purchased microtransactions, ensuring a seamless transition for veteran players. For those preparing for the journey, PoE 2 Currency will play an important role in gearing and trading.
Core Gameplay Evolution: What's New in PoE 2?
The changes in Path of Exile 2 are profound, touching every aspect of the player experience from combat and character progression to itemization. The goal is a more deliberate, tactical, and rewarding gameplay loop that addresses many of the long-standing complexities of its predecessor.
The New Skill Gem System: A Paradigm Shift
The most significant overhaul is the skill gem system. The frustrating process of finding, coloring, and linking sockets on your gear is completely gone. In Path of Exile 2, sockets are now on the Skill Gems themselves.
- Skill Gems and Support Gems: Skill Gems now come with their own sockets. Support Gems are placed directly into them, making powerful setups portable between characters.
- No More 6-Linking Gear: The chase for a 6-linked armor is replaced by the hunt for Skill Gems with six sockets, making high-power builds more accessible.
- Meta Gems: These special gems can trigger other socketed skills automatically, enabling advanced combo systems.
- Auras and Reservations: Reservation skills now use a separate resource called Spirit, freeing up mana for active skills.
Combat and Movement: Dodge Roll and Weapon Innovations
Combat in PoE 2 is designed to be more responsive and tactical. The biggest addition is a dedicated, cooldown-free Dodge Roll available to all characters, allowing manual evasion of attacks and adding a skill-based layer to encounters.
New weapon types enhance build diversity:
- Spears: Blend mobility with long-reach melee strikes.
- Crossbows: Feature innate bolt skills with customizable ammunition types.
- Flails: Offer unique melee attack patterns and utility.
Dual Specialization Passive Tree
The passive skill tree now supports Dual Specialization, allowing two separate skill allocations tied to weapon or skill type. Switching between them happens automatically based on the skill used, enabling builds that adapt instantly to different combat scenarios.
Character Class Diversity
Path of Exile 2 introduces 12 new character classes, each aligned with specific attribute focuses and offering three Ascendancy specializations. This creates 36 total Ascendancy options, ensuring deep build variety.
| Primary Attribute | Classes |
|---|---|
| Strength (STR) | Marauder |
| Dexterity (DEX) | Ranger |
| Intelligence (INT) | Witch |
| Strength / Dexterity | Duelist, Huntress |
| Strength / Intelligence | Templar, Monk |
| Dexterity / Intelligence | Shadow, Sorceress |
| Strength / Dexterity / Intelligence | Scion, Mercenary, Warrior |
Itemization and Endgame Content
While many itemization systems will feel familiar, the introduction of Gold as a vendor currency streamlines purchases and services. This change simplifies early-game trading with NPCs while retaining the complex player-driven economy.
Endgame content remains vast. Completing the new six-act campaign unlocks the shared Atlas of Worlds, featuring over 100 maps, pinnacle bosses, and legacy league mechanics. Over time, PoE 2 will introduce exclusive endgame features to differentiate its long-term progression from PoE 1.
Key Differences Between PoE 1 and PoE 2
| Feature | Path of Exile 1 | Path of Exile 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Skill System | Gear-based sockets and links | Gem-based sockets with portable setups |
| Movement | Varies by skills and gear | Universal Dodge Roll for all classes |
| Weapon Types | Traditional melee/ranged options | New weapons like Spears, Crossbows, Flails |
| Passive Tree | Single specialization | Dual Specialization with auto-switching |
| Currency for NPCs | Barter with orbs | Gold introduced alongside orbs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Path of Exile 2 free-to-play?
Yes. It follows the same ethical microtransaction model as PoE 1, focusing on cosmetics and quality-of-life upgrades.
Will my microtransactions carry over?
Yes. All compatible cosmetics will be usable in both games.
When does the closed beta start?
The closed beta begins on June 7th, 2024. The full release date is not yet confirmed.
Can I play with PoE 1 players?
No. The games have separate environments due to fundamental gameplay differences.
Because the core mechanics, skills, and balance have been rebuilt from the ground up, Path of Exile 2 aims to deliver a more tactical, immersive, and flexible ARPG experience than ever before. Whether you are a veteran or a newcomer, preparing your strategies and resources early, including securing cheap path of exile 2 currency, can give you a strong start in this ambitious sequel.