If you’re not too familiar with Path of Exile, it’s a free-to-play RPG known for its complex systems, sprawling skill trees, and challenging endgame. Since its release in 2013, Path of Exile has grown into a massive game with frequent updates and expansions. With the highly anticipated sequel, Path of Exile 2, expected to launch in early 2025 (after beta in late 2024), many gamers are wondering: do you need to play Path of Exile 1 before the sequel?
Should you play Path of Exile 1 before Path of Exile 2?
Path of Exile is known for its complexity. By playing the original game, you should be able to gain a solid understanding of its core systems – such as skill gems, the passive skill tree, and item crafting – which will make the transition to Path of Exile 2 much smoother.
The sequel will build on these concepts, so having a head start could give you an advantage. Plus, you’ll already be familiar with the game’s unique mechanics and terminology, reducing the learning curve that usually comes with trying out a new game.
Reasons to play Path of Exile in the first place
- Both games will be supported. Even after Path of Exile 2 is released, the original game will continue to receive updates, expansions, and seasonal tie-ins. These leagues will launch about two months apart for each game, meaning you could enjoy playing both without feeling overwhelmed. Starting with the original game now might help you find a rhythm that works for you and prevent burnout when switching between the two.
- The game is at its best. After years of updates, Path of Exile is still at its best. The game has been refined and improved over time, making it more accessible than ever. The current league mechanic is especially nice, especially if you enjoy management or strategy games.
- You can build some basic knowledge. Many of the core elements in Path of Exile 2 will be expansions or refinements of systems introduced in the first game. Familiarizing yourself with these now will not only help you better understand the sequel, but also deepen your appreciation for how far the game has come.
These are just some of the core reasons to play Path of Exile 1 in the first place. Much more was discussed about Redditwhere the conversation gained a lot of input.
Why you should skip Path of Exile and just play Path of Exile 2
While Path of Exile has improved visually over time, some aspects of the campaign are still showing their age. If modern graphics are important to you, this might put you off as a gamer.
Getting started with Path of Exile 2 means you’ll get a brand new, modern experience right from the start. The sequel is built on newer technologies and design principles that could make it more engaging and enjoyable if you go in with fresh eyes.
If you decide to skip the original Voodoo of Exile and jump straight into the sequel, you won’t be missing out on too much.
Path of Exile 2 is designed as a standalone experience that features its own systems, mechanics, and story. While familiarity with the first game might help you appreciate the sequel’s improvements, Path of Exile 2 is meant to be fully enjoyable on its own.
Plus, with the revamped skill gem system, dual special passive skill trees, and all-new items and bosses, there’s a lot to learn that’ll be fresh and exciting, even for seasoned veterans of the first game.
What is Path of Exile 2?
Since the first Path of Exile 2 trailer was posted three years ago, I’ve dropped the more recent console trailer above.
Path of Exile 2 will be the next-generation update of the original game, as well as its sequel. It features a new six-act campaign that takes place years after the events of the first game. Players will return to the dark world of Wraeclast to fight against the spreading corruption.
With twelve characters, a revamped skill gem system, dual-specialization passive skill trees and over a hundred unique boss encounters, Path of Exile 2 becomes a deeper and more refined experience than its predecessor. The sequel aims to preserve what fans love about the original game while improving gameplay for new and returning players.
What are the main differences between Path of Exile 1 and Path of Exile 2?
Character Classes
- Path of Exile 1 offers seven base character classes, each with three Ascendancy specializations, making a total of 19 Ascendancy classes.
- Path of Exile 2 expands to twelve character classes, with each base class having two variants, resulting in 36 Ascendancy classes. This allows for more varied and specialized builds.
Campaign Structure
- Path of Exile 1 features a ten-act campaign followed by various endgame content, such as the Atlas of Worlds.
- Path of Exile 2 features a brand new six-act campaign that takes place years after the original game. This campaign is completely separate from the original, although both campaigns lead to the same common endgame. I can’t talk about the endgame yet because even the developer doesn’t know what it looks like.
Capable Gem System
- Path of Exile 1 skill gems and support gems are embedded in gear. In order to use multiple support gems on a skill, you have to connect the sockets on your gear, which can be difficult and requires a significant investment.
- Path of Exile 2’s ability gem system is overhauled, allowing support gems to be inserted directly into ability gems. Each skill can be hex-linked independently, removing some of the gear dependency and making skilling easier.
Item System
- Path of Exile 1 has a complex item system with various item types, including weapons, armor, flasks and accessories. Players engage in crafting and modifying items with orbs and other currencies.
- Path of Exile 2 will feature new weapon types such as spears, crossbows and slings, as well as redesigned items – such as sceptres! The sequel also adds new base types and unique items, expanding the variety and strategic options available.
Passive Skill Tree
- Path of Exile 1 features a massive passive skill tree that all characters share. Your starting point on the tree depends on your character class, but you can branch in any direction.
- Path of Exile 2 retains the iconic passive skill tree but introduces dual specialization, allowing you to allocate points to two different sets of skills that activate based on your weapon or skill. This adds flexibility and complexity to characters.
Ultimately, whether or not you should play Path of Exile 1 before Path of Exile 2 comes down to your personal preference.
If you wish to travel into the world of Wraeclast and start building your knowledge of the game and its lore, the original 2013 Path of Exile is a great place to start. It’s free, and familiarizing yourself with its systems will definitely help you when the sequel arrives.
However, if you’re more interested in waiting for a more polished experience, starting with Path of Exile 2 is perfectly fine. You’ll be waiting a little longer though.
Want to read more about Path of Exile here at Pro Game Guides? View All Classes in Path of Exile 2 and The Ranger class in Path of Exile 2 makes you feel like Legolas (Preview).
