Path of Exile II is one of the most anticipated ARPGs in recent years, and after spending some time with its early access version, it’s clear that Grinding Gear Games is crafting something special. But reviewing a game still in early access—especially one that has yet to officially reach that milestone—presents some unique challenges. The game I played today could look very different in a matter of weeks, as updates, fixes, and tweaks are rolled out. So, what can I take away from my initial experience?
The first thing I’ll say is this: Path of Exile II will likely be one of my favorite games of 2024, and if I’m including early access titles in my final list, it will certainly be up there. But when 2025 rolls around and the game is in its full, polished glory, I’m confident it will be an essential ARPG experience.
A Familiar Yet Deeper Formula
For fans of the genre, the formula should feel familiar. At its core, Path of Exile II is an ARPG, similar to Diablo IV, but with much more complexity and a retro adventuring twist. If you’re coming from Diablo IV, be prepared for a steep learning curve. This is a game that doesn’t take prisoners—whether it’s navigating the enormous passive skill tree or taking on the brutal difficulty of the boss fights, Path of Exile II doesn’t hold your hand.
And let me be clear: this game is tough. In the few hours I spent with the review build, I died more times than I can count. Compare that to my recent experience with Diablo IV, where deaths were rare during the main campaign, and you’ll understand just how different the two games are. In Path of Exile II, death isn’t a setback—it’s a lesson. Each encounter, each death, each boss fight teaches you something about your character, your build, and your playstyle.
A World of Endless Possibilities
Where Path of Exile II truly shines is in the sheer depth of its mechanics. The skill tree is vast, with hundreds of potential nodes to choose from. As a sorceress specializing in lightning, I found myself constantly planning ahead, deciding which paths to take and which skills to combine. The flexibility is incredible. There’s so much potential for experimenting with character builds, from elemental magic to melee combat, and everything in between. It’s all about the possibilities.
Even within the limited hours I spent with the game, I felt like I was creating something special with my character. There’s an intimacy here that I haven’t felt in many other ARPGs. When I earned a passive point, I’d sit there for minutes, weighing my options and considering how this new choice would affect my overall build. Path of Exile II isn’t just a game; it’s a sandbox for players who love the freedom to experiment and tinker with their characters.
Gorgeous and Dangerous World Design
While the story isn’t the main draw—there’s not much to sink your teeth into yet—the world design is another standout feature. Every environment feels alive, detailed, and brimming with danger. From lush jungles to bone-like desert structures, every area is rich with atmosphere, and the random generation ensures that no two runs feel the same.
The bosses are an absolute highlight. Some are towering, terrifying creatures pulled straight from dark fantasy lore, while others are human enemies twisted by demonic powers. Every encounter is memorable, whether it’s due to the boss’s mechanics, the stunning visual design, or the elemental challenges that force you to adapt mid-battle. The fight against a boss isn’t just about skill—it’s about learning attack patterns, managing resources, and staying one step ahead.
Even though the game doesn’t feature a traditional interconnected overworld, the segmented design works well. In fact, it felt more like a collection of dungeons, each with its own sub-dungeons and secret paths. The feeling of discovery is constant, and it’s a world you’ll want to explore again and again.
A Few Growing Pains
That said, this is still early access, and there are some rough edges that need smoothing out. As a ranged character, I occasionally found myself cornered in tight spaces, struggling to avoid attacks from off-screen enemies. These moments were frustrating, especially when playing as a character with limited mobility. It’s possible these issues will be addressed in future updates, but they were notable during my time with the game.
Still, these complaints are minor in comparison to the bigger picture. The game is a work in progress, and I’m confident Grinding Gear Games will continue to refine and improve upon these aspects.
The Future of Path of Exile II
It’s impossible to give a final verdict on Path of Exile II at this stage. With only two acts available for early access, and no endgame content to explore, it feels like I’ve only scratched the surface of what the game has to offer. But even this small slice of the experience has me incredibly excited for the full release.
When it launches in its entirety, Path of Exile II will undoubtedly be a game that devours hours of your time. With its immense depth, complexity, and the freedom to craft unique characters, it’s shaping up to be one of the best ARPGs on the market. If you’re a fan of the genre, this is a game you’ll want to keep an eye on.
A Quick Tip: POE2Gold
For players who want to get ahead of the curve in Path of Exile II, whether in early access or when the full game releases, I highly recommend POE2Gold. It’s an excellent resource for buying poe 2 currency for sale, helping you acquire the items, currency, and upgrades you need to enhance your journey. It’s a great way to make the grind a little less painful while still enjoying the thrill of discovering everything this game has to offer.
Path of Exile II is a game that demands attention, strategy, and a willingness to learn. For those who love ARPGs and crave a deeper, more complex experience, this is a must-play.
If you want to know more, you can read this article:What To Do With Golden Idols In Path of Exile