Path of Exile 2 Release Date and How to Get Early Access
Last Update: 11/12/2024

Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) is the long-awaited sequel to the popular RPG from Grinding Gear Games, which promises to make a splash in the gaming community with a planned release in December 2024.

In this article, we'll take a detailed look at PoE2's features, release date, early access, and what players can expect from the new adventure in the beloved Wraeclast universe.

 
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Part 1: Overview of Path of Exile 2

Part 2: When Is Path of Exile 2 Early Access Release Date & How to Get Access?

Part 3. Path of Exile 2 Gameplay Features

Part 4: Content of Path of Exile 2 - Maps, and Modes in the game

Part 5: Play Path of Exile 2 No Queue Issue, No More Lag Issues

Part 6: Game Community and Feedback

Part 1: Overview of Path of Exile 2: A New Era in the RPG World

Path of Exile 2 reveals a standalone sequel to the original action RPG from Grinding Gear Games, set in the dark fantasy world of Wraeclast. Initially conceived as a substantial expansion, PoE2 has grown into its own full-fledged game with a fresh storyline, entirely new gameplay mechanics, and character classes. Players can expect a continuation of the series' signature deep and nuanced build crafting, allowing them to customize their characters with a wide array of skills and loot to overcome the challenges scattered throughout Wraeclast's diverse landscapes.

Developed by a team of passionate Diablo 2 fans, Path of Exile gained acclaim for its engaging gameplay and was officially released as a free PC game in 2013 after a period in beta. Since then, it has remained a staple in the action RPG genre, often cited as one of the best alternatives to Diablo. As anticipation builds for the release of Path of Exile 2, players eagerly await further details on its new mechanics, gameplay changes, and release date.

Part 2: When Is Path of Exile 2 Early Access Release Date? & How to Get Access

When does Path of Exile 2 Early Access start?

The launch of Early Access on December 6th, 2024 will be an important step in the development of the game. Many players are looking forward to the opportunity to get acquainted with the new content and make their suggestions, which can play a key role in improving the gameplay.

Discussions in communities on Reddit and Steam are full of anticipation and speculation about how Early Access will be structured. Players hope that it will provide opportunities for players of all skill levels to participate, allowing more people to experience the new game and contribute to its development.

Note: Grinding Gear Games has announced that the Early Access launch for Path of Exile 2 has been delayed to December 6. The release was originally scheduled for November 15.

How to get early access?

1. Buy a Support Package

During the Early Access period, GGG will likely offer new support packages that will provide access to the game.

While exact prices have yet to be confirmed, it is expected that packages will start at $30. More expensive packages may offer additional in-game bonuses and items.

2. Lifetime Support Threshold

If you've spent $500 or more on your account throughout your time playing Path of Exile 1, you can automatically receive a key to access the game without purchasing packs.

GGG will likely contact eligible players and send them confirmation emails before Early Access begins.

3. Participate in Community Activities

For those who have not reached the required spending threshold, GGG may offer free access opportunities through giveaways or community activities. Be active on forums and social media to stay up to date with announcements on this topic.

4. Verifying Your Right of Access

To find out if you qualify for free access:

Head to your account summary on the Path of Exile website, where your transaction history will show your total spending over time.

GGG previously stated that players who reach the $500 threshold will be automatically considered for early access without the need for additional purchases.

Part 3. Path of Exile 2 Gameplay Features

1. New six-act campaign

Path of Exile 2 features a new six-act campaign that includes 100 unique locations, 600 monsters, and 100 bosses. It is a significant expansion over the original Path of Exile (PoE), adding more story depth and gameplay variety.

2. Character classes and builds

Players can choose from twelve character classes, each offering unique playstyles and focusing on one of three core attributes: Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence. This diversity allows for a variety of builds, encouraging creativity and character customization. Each class also has three Ascendancy specializations, bringing the total number of Ascendancy classes to choose from.

3. New skill stone system

One of the key features of PoE2 is the revamped skill gem system. The game will feature 240 skill gems and 200 support gems that can be combined to create powerful skills and additional abilities. Integrating support gems directly into skill gems simplifies the build creation process while maintaining the complexity of character customization.

4. Dual Specialization on the Passive Skill Tree

The passive skill tree, which has become an iconic element for Valve fans, returns with a new feature: dual specialization. Players can distribute skills across two different branches of the tree, allowing them to accommodate different playstyles without losing progress in each segment. This feature increases flexibility, allowing players to easily tailor their gameplay.

5. Improved item system

PoE2 expands the variety of equipment by introducing 700 new basic item types, each with unique properties. New weapons such as spears and crossbows are added to the game, as well as auxiliary items including tricks and traps, which improves combat strategy and interaction with items.

6. Various boss encounters

Each zone in the new campaign has its own boss, promising at least 100 unique boss fights. Each boss has special mechanics that players will need to learn and adapt to in order to successfully complete the fight.

7. Research endgame

After completing the six-act campaign, players will have access to over 100 endgame maps with unique challenges and bosses. Path of Exile 2's endgame will feature updated versions of mechanics from previous leagues, offering old-school players a nostalgic yet fresh gaming experience.

Part 4: Path of Exile 2 - Maps and Modes in the game

Maps in Path of Exile 2

In Path of Exile 2, maps are endgame areas that players access via the Map Device in their hideout or Templar Lab after completing the main storyline. These maps offer a variety of challenges and rewards, and are the primary source of experience, loot, and progression for high-level characters.

Here are the main features of the cards in PoE2:

1. Map levels and difficulties

Maps are divided into levels from 1 (easiest) to 16 (hardest). Higher level maps offer stronger enemies and better loot.

Maps can also have modifiers that increase their difficulty and potential rewards. These modifiers can affect monster damage, monster health, player resistance, and other parameters.

2. Atlas of the Worlds

The Atlas of Worlds is a map system that serves as a progress tracker. It shows all the maps you have discovered and allows you to track their completion.

Completing maps on the Atlas unlocks higher tier maps and gets you closer to more challenging endgame content.

3. Map layouts and tilesets

Each map has its own unique layout and tileset, creating variety in the visual and gameplay experience.

Tilesets can include both open areas such as forests and deserts, and indoor areas such as crypts and temples.

4. Bosses and fights

Maps often feature unique bosses or encounters that add extra challenges and rewards.

Some maps have multiple bosses or special mechanics that players must overcome.

5. Modifications and customization of maps

Players can use currency items such as Orbs of Alchemy and Chaos Orbs to modify maps, adding random modifiers to increase the difficulty and improve rewards.

Special Cultist modifiers can also be applied to maps on the Atlas, providing additional challenges and rewards.

6. Endgame progress

Cards play a key role in Path of Exile's endgame progression, allowing players to continue to develop their characters and improve their gear.

The variety of maps allows players to customize their experience based on their preferred play style and goals.

Path of Exile 2 Game Modes

Path of Exile 2 has four confirmed main game modes:

1. Standard

Basic mode without additional rules. Here you can trade with other players, join groups, and so on.

2. Hardcore

Similar to Standard, but if your character dies, it switches to Standard mode.

3. Single Player No Trade (SSF)

In this mode, you play alone, without the ability to trade or team up with others. You find all the items yourself.

4. Hardcore SSF (HCSSF)

Combines Hardcore mode with SSF. If your character dies, it switches to SSF mode.

5. Ruthless

A mode from PoE1 that reduces the amount of loot and significantly increases the difficulty of the game.

You can transfer your character from SSF to Standard at any time (with or without items in the chest). However, in Hardcore, transferring a character to Standard requires the character to die, making the process of transferring loot from Hardcore to Standard tricky; it can only be done if the character dies and transfers the inventory to another mode.

Part 5: Play Path of Exile 2 No Queue Issue, No More Lag Issues

Currently, Path of Exile 2 players can enjoy the game without any queue or lag issues. To ensure a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience in the long run, we recommend using LagoFast.

LagoFast is an outstanding solution for game-related issues, packed with numerous features. Firstly, it effectively reduces game lag and stuttering without requiring complex procedures. Secondly, if you're seeking to switch servers for a better gameplay experience, LagoFast can assist you in selecting a stable one. Moreover, it excels in lowering high ping and enhancing FPS (frames per second).

If you're unsure about choosing among similar tools, don't fret—LagoFast is your optimal choice. It stands out for its user-friendly interface and affordability compared to others in the market. Even if you're new to using game issue-fixing tools, LagoFast's intuitive interface will help you feel at ease. And the cherry on top? LagoFast offers a free trial download, allowing you to test it out before making any financial commitments.

Follow the 4 steps to have a free trial:

Step 1: Download and install LagoFast, sign in

 

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Step 2: Search “Path of Exile 2” and click the result.

Step 3: Choose the server and node you like

Step 4: The boosted page will display your packet loss rate, network status, and ping rate. Just start the Path of Exile 2!

Part 6: Game Community and Feedback

The Path of Exile community is active, vocal, and integral to the ongoing development and success of the game. As Path of Exile 2 continues its development and eventual release, this community feedback will likely play a crucial role in shaping the game's evolution and reception.

Here are some general aspects of how the Path of Exile community typically engages with the game and provides feedback:

1. Community Involvement:

Path of Exile has a highly engaged and passionate community. Players frequently discuss game mechanics, share builds, trade items, and participate in events organized by both developers and community members.

2. Feedback Channels:

The developers of Path of Exile, Grinding Gear Games, actively solicit feedback through various channels. This includes forums, social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter, and official in-game surveys or feedback forms.

Community managers often interact with players directly to gather opinions on new content, balance changes, and overall gameplay experience.

3. Expansion Releases:

When new expansions or major updates are released for Path of Exile, the community typically provides feedback on the new content, mechanics, balance changes, and any bugs or issues encountered.

Feedback can range from specific gameplay mechanics to broader concerns about game balance, economy, and performance.

4. Developer Responsiveness:

Grinding Gear Games is known for being responsive to community feedback. They frequently address player concerns through patch notes, developer posts, and direct adjustments to the game based on community input.

Community feedback plays a significant role in shaping future updates and expansions for Path of Exile.

5. Community Events and Content Creation:

The Path of Exile community also thrives through content creation, including build guides, streaming on platforms like Twitch, and creating fan art and videos.

Events like racing leagues, competitive events, and community-run tournaments further enhance the engagement and interaction within the community.

Conclusion

Path of Exile 2 is set to change the action RPG genre with a gripping story, innovative gameplay mechanics, a wide range of character customization options, and a dedicated developer community. The game is scheduled for a full release in December 2024, with Early Access starting on November 15, 2024. Players around the world are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Path of Exile saga.

As release approaches, new and returning players alike will have the opportunity to once again delve into the dark, immersive world of Wraeclast, embarking on epic adventures and uncovering ancient mysteries that intertwine with the present. Path of Exile 2 is more than just a sequel; it’s the promise of a new beginning for one of the most beloved franchises in gaming history.