Path of Exile 2 is an upcoming action RPG developed by Grinding Gear Games and a direct sequel to Path of Exile, the acclaimed online action role-playing game. While Path of Exile revolutionized the ARPG genre with its deep skill customization, extensive passive skill tree, and engaging loot system, the sequel takes everything to the POE 2 Currency next level with an expanded story, new gameplay mechanics, and an entirely new campaign.
In this article, we’ll guide you through Path of Exile 2's campaign, providing an overview of its setting, key story elements, major gameplay mechanics, and tips to help you navigate the campaign from start to finish. Whether you're a veteran of the original game or new to the series, this comprehensive walkthrough will help you conquer Wraeclast and the lands beyond with ease.
1. Introduction to Path of Exile 2 Campaign
In Path of Exile 2, players are thrust into a darker, more dangerous version of the world that has evolved significantly since the events of the first game. While Path of Exile primarily focused on the story of exile and survival in the treacherous land of Wraeclast, Path of Exile 2 takes place approximately 20 years after the original game's events.
The sequel introduces a new set of exiles and fresh lore, setting the stage for an epic story-driven experience. The story follows a new group of heroes who must navigate a world in turmoil. Wraeclast has been plagued by corruption, decay, and the power struggles of the ancient gods. This expansion on the lore offers an even deeper dive into the fractured world, with a blend of new mechanics and fresh content to keep the game engaging.
The campaign in Path of Exile 2 is designed to be more immersive and cinematic, with a more narrative-driven approach, while still retaining the signature Path of Exile gameplay loop of loot, combat, and progression.
2. The Starting Point: New Heroes, New Beginnings
The campaign begins with players selecting from a new set of characters, each with their unique backstory, motivations, and skillset. These characters are part of the "Exile" group, similar to the previous game's protagonist, but their motives and alliances vary. The new heroes are more deeply integrated into the game's world, offering a rich narrative experience from the start.
The game allows you to choose from one of seven new playable characters in Path of Exile 2, each with a fresh skill tree and distinct abilities. While some may appear similar to the original game’s character classes, each new hero comes with a more nuanced backstory and unique traits that set them apart from their predecessors. As of now, the game includes new classes such as The Duelist, The Ascendant, The Witch, The Templar, and more—allowing for a fresh take on combat.
3. Act 1: The Dark Shores and the Call of the Exiles
Act 1 kicks off with a shipwreck, with your character washed ashore on a dark and desolate coast. This act will introduce you to the game's mechanics, controls, and lore. You’ll quickly find yourself embroiled in a desperate struggle against enemies both human and supernatural, exploring the shores of Wraeclast in search of the story's key antagonist: Kaom, a monstrous figure who holds an ominous power over the land.
Key Features of Act 1:
New Quest System: The quest structure in Path of Exile 2 is designed to be more narrative-driven. Expect a stronger focus on storytelling as you traverse the land, completing quests that tie into the main plot.
The Coastal Encampment: The first safe zone, where NPCs provide side quests, items, and information about the world.
Monsters: The enemies are a mix of corrupted animals, bandits, and other supernatural horrors.
Combat Mechanics:
The combat remains true to the Path of Exile franchise but introduces several new mechanics, including more skill customizations, new elemental interactions, and a dynamic combat system that rewards skillful play. New skills and support gems are introduced, allowing players to adapt and create unique builds.
4. Act 2: The Wastes of the Fallen Empire
Act 2 sees the player traveling deeper into the Fallen Empire, an ancient civilization filled with crumbled structures and corrupted ruins. Here, the player is faced with the consequences of a great war that once ravaged the land, leaving behind eerie remnants of lost technologies and cursed creatures.
Key Features of Act 2:
The Fallen Empire Ruins: The act introduces several large open-world zones and dungeon-crawling environments filled with ruins, catacombs, and hazardous terrain.
New NPCs: You’ll meet survivors, mercenaries, and those who are willing to help you navigate the dangerous zones.
Powerful Artifacts: Some of the most potent gear and items in the game are scattered throughout this act, pushing players to explore the vast areas for hidden treasures and powerful equipment.
The story in Act 2 revolves around stopping a dark force that threatens to control the remains of an ancient civilization. The player learns of the cheap POE2 Currency Heralds of Exile and must decide whether to ally with them or oppose their goals.