If action role-playing games are your thing, then I’m sure you’ve already heard about Path of Exile 2. This sequel not only shattered records for the ARPG series but also sent fans into a frenzy when it debuted in Early Access last December.
Among those fans was me, and it seems like I wasn’t alone. Path of Exile 2 quickly became a massive hit, topping 500,000 peak players on Steam and dominating as the platform’s best-selling title for several weeks. But as is common with early access games, the player base began to dwindle until fresh content could reignite the excitement.
Then came version 0.2, an update that breathed new life into the game with player numbers soaring back up to nearly 250,000. But, with the surge of returning players came a flood of reviews, many of them critical.
What’s going on with Path of Exile 2?
In the latest updates, Grinding Gear Games made changes that not all fans appreciated. Progression has become frustratingly slow, especially when compared to other ARPGs—even the original Path of Exile.
Some entire character builds took a hit with necessary nerfs, but unfortunately, even previously reliable skills got shoved to the sidelines. This has left players relying more on basic attacks than complex skill combinations—tapping their way with spears and crossbows through a gameplay loop that feels more like a chore than a challenge. These changes have left the game’s user score hovering around a dismal 44% as players express their frustrations.
Consider some recent Steam reviews:
"Dawn of the Hunt update, everything feels like a complete slog. Each boss fight drags on beyond necessity, and many skills seem almost pointless. I get wanting to slow the pace, but I’m doubtful I’ll stick with this league for even another week," shares Hellexion, who’s amassed a considerable 200 hours in the game.
“This doesn’t grasp what makes video games enjoyable.” – says RustedHeroes, clocking in at 263 hours.
"New Patch ruined the game. If you want to waste your time grinding towards nothing, this is the game for you." – Docholliday211, a seasoned player with 831 hours of gameplay.
These aren’t just the grumblings of newcomers. When someone logs over 30 days of gameplay, their thoughts carry weight.
Last Epoch seizes the moment
Amidst the storm, Last Epoch seems to be making waves at just the right time. Following the launch of its second season, it has not only gained popularity but exceeded Path of Exile 2’s player count by an impressive 40%. Not too shabby for a game that made its big exit from Early Access just last February.
The spike in interest even caused some login issues due to overwhelming numbers. Yet, the feedback remains largely positive, with many players drawing comparisons to Path of Exile.
Take this, for instance: "Stepping back to this after over 100 hours in PoE2’s current league was refreshing. I had forgotten how rewarding an ARPG could be from the start, without the endgame grind," says a recently converted fan.
"This stands up to PoE 1 in terms of sheer enjoyment. The crafting? Top-notch." – Creeo, with 266 hours.
"Collected more in 10 minutes here than in an hour on PoE2," commented Glairmark after 122 hours.
Last Epoch succeeds by streamlining what makes ARPGs fun, cutting through the grind. The focus here is player enjoyment, not just conquering a mountain of difficulty.
In leaning too much into its unique identity, Path of Exile 2 may have alienated some of its fanbase. A game thrives on its players, after all.
Grinding Gear Games fights back
Even though Path of Exile 2 is struggling with mixed reactions to its recent updates, Grinding Gear Games is not throwing in the towel. They actively listen to player feedback and continue refining the game, though it’s not been enough to tip the balance towards more positive reviews.
The upcoming 0.2g patch aims to address some of the core complaints. The previous update didn’t quite hit all the marks, but the developers are promising improvements to loot dynamics. They aim to mend unlucky streaks and improve item drops from bosses, particularly those influenced by Azmerian Wisps.
It’s clear Grinding Gear Games is committed to course-correcting and enhancing the game experience. Their proactive stance is promising for fans hoping for a comeback.
The Diablo 4 effect: Timing is everything
Meanwhile, Diablo 4’s new season is poised to launch, which could lure many ARPG players back to Blizzard’s lauded franchise.
This season is spiced with nostalgia as familiar faces like Diablo 3’s Belial make a return. Though not usually a Diablo 4 devotee, even I’m tempted to revisit the infamous Sanctuary. New additions include harnessing boss powers and a fresh showdown event featuring 10 bosses in a row, topped by the desert demon lord himself.
Eager for every detail? Our in-depth preview by Diablo aficionado Jennifer Young covers all the latest hellish offerings brewing for this next season.
All said and done, whether you’re deep into PoE 2, exploring Last Epoch, or bracing for Diablo 4, there’s no shortage of what’s brewing in the ARPG genre today. The competition may be fierce, but it’s undoubtedly keeping things exciting for players everywhere.
