Path of Exile 2 Devs Stand Firm on Challenging Endgame
The development team behind Path of Exile 2, including co-directors Mark Roberts and Jonathan Rogers, have addressed the community's concerns regarding the game's demanding endgame. Launched in early access in December 2024, Path of Exile 2 is an isometric action RPG that has attracted a robust player base eager for its full release. The sequel to the 2013 original, Path of Exile 2 boasts a revamped skill system with 240 active skill gems and 12 character classes, leading players through a six-act story to a challenging 100-map endgame.
In response to player feedback on the endgame's difficulty, Rogers emphasized the importance of risk and failure in gameplay, stating, "The whole 'death actually mattering' thing is actually important. You have to have some level of failure being possible." He further explained the EXP loss system, noting, "It's keeping you in the place where you're supposed to be, as in if you're dying all the time then you’re probably not ready to keep going up the power curve." This stance reflects the developers' commitment to maintaining the game's challenging nature, ensuring that the experience remains authentic and rewarding for dedicated players.
The first update of 2025, Patch 0.1.0, has been released to address several bugs and crashes, particularly on the PlayStation 5, alongside improvements to monsters, skills, and damage mechanics. Looking ahead, Patch 0.1.1 is on the horizon, with Roberts and Rogers discussing its details in an interview with content creators Darth Microtransaction and GhazzyTV.
Path of Exile 2's endgame unfolds within the Atlas of Worlds, where players aim to unlock and conquer various maps, tackling the Beasts that infest them. Access to the Atlas is granted after completing the main campaign on Cruel Difficulty. Each map in the Atlas presents high-level challenges, including formidable bosses and complex layouts, designed for players who are willing to optimize their builds through gear and skill enhancements.
While the developers are committed to the current endgame design, they are also evaluating the various elements that contribute to its difficulty. This ongoing assessment aims to ensure that players continue to experience the most authentic Path of Exile 2 gameplay possible. Despite the availability of advanced tips to help players navigate the endgame—such as conquering high-Waystone Tier maps, salvaging Quality gear, and strategically using portals—some fans remain frustrated with the steep challenge.
As Path of Exile 2 continues to evolve, the team at Grinding Gear Games remains focused on delivering crucial quality-of-life updates and maintaining the game's core challenging essence, all while listening to player feedback and striving for an optimal gaming experience.
