Path of Exile 2: The Complete Beginner Guide
Welcome to the Beginner Guide for Path of Exile 2! Whether you're new to the Path of Exile series or looking to understand the differences between PoE 1 and PoE 2, this guide will walk you through the basics. We'll cover game mechanics, character building, game modes, and other essential topics to help you get started on the right foot.
Path of Exile 2 is an action RPG that focuses heavily on loot-based progression, character customization, and building diversity. With Early Access starting on November 15, 2024, now is the perfect time to prepare yourself for the game's intricacies.
Differences Between Path of Exile 1 and Path of Exile 2
While PoE 2 shares a lot with the original, there are some notable changes:
New Skill System: Instead of socketing gems into gear, skill gems now act independently, making them more flexible.
Updated Campaign: PoE 2 introduces a brand-new 7-act campaign alongside the original PoE 1 campaign.
Shared Endgame: Both PoE 1 and PoE 2 will share the same Atlas endgame, so players from both games will converge after finishing their respective campaigns.
Refined Mechanics: Expect more polished gameplay with updated animations, smoother mechanics, and improved pacing.
Build Guides: Should You Use One?
Path of Exile can feel overwhelming because of its complexity, but don't let that stop you. While following a build guide can make things easier, experimenting on your own can be equally rewarding. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
Reasons to Use a Build Guide
Ensures your character will be strong enough to clear most game content.
Reduces the learning curve by giving you a clear path.
Saves time by eliminating guesswork.
Allows you to focus on enjoying the game rather than planning every detail.
Recommended: Use a "league starter" build since it doesn't require expensive gear.
Reasons to Not Use a Build Guide
You enjoy figuring things out on your own.
You're okay with not rushing to the endgame.
You understand your character might struggle more without optimization.
You have plenty of time to explore and experiment with mechanics.
Game Modes and Leagues
PoE 2 offers multiple ways to play, with each mode catering to different types of players. Below are the main game modes:
Standard Modes
Standard
No special restrictions. You can trade, party with others, and build at your own pace.
Hardcore
These are standard rules, but your character is moved to Standard if they die. This effectively gives you one life per Hardcore attempt.
Solo Self-Found (SSF)
You cannot trade or party with others, and everything you use must be found or crafted by yourself.
Hardcore SSF
Combines Hardcore and SSF. If you die, your character moves to SSF.
Ruthless (PoE 1 only)
A brutally difficult mode with minimal loot drops and increased challenge. This mode appeals to players looking for extreme difficulty.
Challenge Leagues
Leagues are temporary game modes that introduce new mechanics and reset progress. These are the most popular modes for new and returning players.
New League Every 3-4 Months: When a new league launches, all players start fresh with new characters.
Why Play a League?
Leagues introduce new content and mechanics to explore.
Most of the player base participates in the current league, ensuring an active economy and vibrant community.
Your league characters transfer to Standard once the league ends.
Pro Tip: For beginners, Trade League (Standard/Hardcore with trading) is usually the best starting point. Avoid Hardcore modes if you're unfamiliar with the game, as they can be very punishing.
Getting Started: Core Mechanics
Character Creation
Choose a class that fits your playstyle (e.g., Marauder for tanky builds, Witch for magic). Your choice determines your starting point on the massive Passive Skill Tree.
Skill Gems and Links
Skills are granted by skill gems. In PoE 2, you no longer socket them into gear but manage them directly, giving you more flexibility.
Support Gems modify skill gems to add bonuses, such as increased damage or area-of-effect size.
Passive Skill Tree
The Passive Skill Tree is shared across all classes. You unlock nodes as you level up, customizing your character's stats and abilities.
It's massive, so don't worry if your first few builds aren't perfect!
Currency and Crafting
Path of Exile's economy revolves around currency Path of Exile items, which act as both money and crafting materials. There is no traditional gold system. Some important currency items include:
Chaos Orbs: Used for re-rolling modifiers on rare items.
Exalted Orbs: Used to add a random modifier to rare items.
Orbs of Alteration: Change magic item properties.
Tip: Keep valuable currency and crafting items for later. You'll need them to trade for better gear or craft your own.
Tips for Leveling
Pick a Simple Build to Start
For your first playthrough, choose a build focused on a single damage skill and a few defensive layers (like armor or evasion).
Avoid overly complicated builds that require precise mechanics.
Upgrade Gear Frequently
Don't wait too long to replace outdated gear. Keep an eye out for items with life, resistances, and damage bonuses.
Follow Quest Rewards
Quests often reward skill gems or useful items—don't skip them.
Manage Resistances
Keep your elemental resistances (fire, cold, lightning) capped at 75% to survive later acts. This becomes even more crucial in endgame content.
Endgame: Mapping and Beyond
After finishing the campaign, you'll enter the Atlas of Worlds—the endgame content where you run maps (randomized dungeons) for better loot.
Maps have different tiers, modifiers, and bosses, making each one unique.
The Atlas Passive Tree allows you to customize your map experience, focusing on mechanics you enjoy, such as Legion, Delirium, or Breach.
Conclusion
Path of Exile 2 offers a deep and rewarding experience, with something for every type of player. Whether you enjoy experimenting with builds, engaging in hardcore challenges, or diving into seasonal content, there's a way for you to play. Don't worry about making mistakes—it's part of the learning process!
For newcomers, Trade League is the recommended mode for a smooth introduction, and if you enjoy the journey, you can try more challenging modes like SSF or Hardcore. As you get more comfortable, explore the Passive Skill Tree, build guides, and other mechanics to make the most out of your experience.
Good luck, Exile! Keep an eye on Path of Exile currency and POE currency for sale and valuable items to keep your build competitive. With time and practice, you'll master the complexities of Path of Exile 2!