Path of Exile 2: Starter Guide for New Players
Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) is the long-awaited sequel to the beloved Path of Exile (PoE), one of the most intricate and rewarding online action RPGs in the world. Developed by Grinding Gear Games, PoE 2 expands on the foundations laid by its predecessor while introducing a fresh narrative, revamped gameplay mechanics, and new character classes. As a beginner, diving into Path of Exile 2 can feel overwhelming due to its vast complexity, but this guide will help you navigate the game and equip you with the knowledge you need to get started on the right foot.
1. Understanding the Basics of Path of Exile 2
Story and Setting
PoE 2 takes place 20 years after the events of Path of Exile. The game is set in the same dark, gritty world of Wraeclast, but with significant shifts in the storyline, mechanics, and lore. The game introduces an entirely new act structure and story progression, offering a deeper and more mature narrative. Players will journey through different environments, each with its own set of challenges and enemies.
The game continues to focus on its core strengths—complex skill systems, diverse character builds, and a high level of player agency. Unlike many other RPGs, PoE 2 offers more flexibility in how you build your character, with hundreds of unique skills, passive tree nodes, and items available to customize your experience.
New and Returning Features
While PoE 2 retains many of the features players loved in the first game—such as the skill gem system, the passive skill tree, and the highly challenging content—it also brings plenty of fresh elements. Notably, PoE 2 introduces a brand-new skill system, improved graphics, and a more accessible interface for beginners, making it easier for new players to grasp.
2. Choosing Your First Class
Character Classes
In PoE 2, there are seven new character classes to choose from, each offering different playstyles. These classes are:
The Marauder: Focused on brute strength, this class excels in melee combat, tanking, and physical damage.
The Ranger: A highly mobile class focused on ranged attacks, agility, and dealing damage from afar.
The Witch: Specializing in elemental magic, summoning, and spellcasting, the Witch is all about manipulating the forces of nature.
The Duelist: A hybrid of the Marauder and Ranger, the Duelist can be built for both melee and ranged combat, excelling in dexterity and skill-based play.
The Templar: A class focused on spellcasting and physical combat, the Templar blends both offense and defense, making them a versatile choice for beginners.
The Shadow: A stealthy, agile class that focuses on traps, poisons, and quick attacks, the Shadow is perfect for players who enjoy using deception and high mobility.
The Scion: A hybrid class that starts with access to a variety of attributes and allows for greater customization. The Scion offers a more flexible and customizable playstyle but can be difficult for beginners.
Choosing a Class for Beginners
While all classes are viable, some may be easier for beginners to manage than others. If you're new to Path of Exile, the Templar and Witch classes are solid options. The Templar offers a nice balance between offense and defense, making it easier to survive in the early stages. The Witch, while squishy, offers a lot of room for powerful spells and can be very rewarding once you unlock the right abilities. Ranger and Duelist are also good choices for players who prefer dexterity-based, fast-paced gameplay, although they may require more skill in positioning and kiting.
3. Understanding the Passive Skill Tree
One of Path of Exile's hallmark features is its extensive Passive Skill Tree. It's essentially a sprawling web of passive bonuses that enhance your character's abilities. As you level up, you'll gain points to allocate in this tree, allowing you to customize your character's stats and playstyle.
Tips for Beginners
Start with a Guide: The passive tree can be daunting for new players. While experimenting with different builds is fun, it can be wise to follow a guide, especially early on, to ensure you're not wasting points on useless stats.
Focus on One Stat at a Time: Early on, you'll want to prioritize key stats like life, energy shield, and resistances. Avoid getting distracted by too many offensive upgrades until you have a solid defense.
Experiment as You Go: PoE's complexity allows for experimentation, but don't be afraid to change your tree later in the game if you feel your character isn't as strong as it could be. There's always room to respec (reallocate) your points, though it costs a bit of POE 2 Currency.
4. Skill Gems and Itemization
Skill Gems
Unlike many RPGs where abilities are tied to your character, Path of Exile uses Skill Gems. These are items you equip in your gear slots (weapons or armor), and they dictate your character's abilities. Each skill gem can be leveled up, and as it levels, its power increases.
For beginners, it's important to understand that Support Gems can be linked with your Active Skill Gems. These gems modify or enhance the abilities provided by your main skill gem. For example, a Fireball skill gem can be linked to a Fire Damage Support gem, increasing the damage output.
Itemization
The gear you equip can also have significant effects on your build. Pay attention to the following:
Weapons: Your weapon type determines your primary attack skills (e.g., sword for melee, bow for ranged).
Armor: Armor sets provide various benefits, such as higher life, resistance to elemental damage, and more.
Jewels: These can be socketed into specific places on your passive tree to provide extra bonuses to your stats.
While the game offers basic gear, crafting and upgrading items will become essential as you progress. Divination Cards and Currency Items are used to enhance or modify gear, and it's worth learning the crafting mechanics as you get further into the game.
5. Leveling Up and Progression
The Early Game
In the first few acts of PoE 2, you'll mainly focus on leveling up and learning the mechanics. The game features an expansive world, and while quests and missions will guide you through the story, be sure to explore and clear out extra areas for more loot, experience, and resources. You'll also be encountering Boss Fights throughout the early game, each requiring a combination of strategy, patience, and proper skill usage.
Leveling Speed
Leveling up in PoE can be a bit slower than other ARPGs, but that's part of the charm. You'll gain new abilities and learn more about your character with each level. Try to focus on resistances and health early to prevent getting stuck at certain points.
6. The Importance of the Economy and Currency
In Path of Exile 2, the in-game economy is one of the most complex and rewarding aspects of the game. Instead of relying on gold or a standard currency system, PoE uses different Currency Items, like Orbs of Alteration, Chaos Orbs, and Exalted Orbs. These currencies are used for crafting, poe2 trade, and modifying items.
As a beginner, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the basics of these items. Trading is also a big part of the game, and you'll want to get used to looking at prices for items and currency exchanges within the in-game marketplace.
7. Final Tips for Beginners
Take Your Time: PoE 2 isn't a game that rewards rushing. Take your time to experiment with different builds, learn the crafting system, and explore every area.
Join a Guild: Being part of a guild can provide you with a support network of experienced players, which can be invaluable for learning the ropes.
Keep an Eye on Endgame: While the early game is important, don't forget to prepare for the endgame content, which includes Map Completion, Uber Bosses, and Endgame Labyrinths.
Conclusion
Path of Exile 2 is a game that requires patience, dedication, and strategy. While the complexity of its mechanics might seem intimidating at first, there's a huge reward in mastering the system and building a character tailored to your playstyle. Whether you're interested in crafting powerful spells, exploring deep dungeons, or dominating the battlefield in high-level boss fights, PoE 2 offers an experience unlike any other in the ARPG genre. Follow this guide, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a true exile!