PoE 2 Devs Discuss Endgame Challenge

Summary

• The Path of Exile 2 developers are defending the challenging endgame, despite player concerns.
• Co-director Jonathan Rogers stated, "...if you’re dying all the time then you’re probably not ready to keep going up the power curve."
• Players navigate through the intricate Atlas of Worlds in the endgame, facing advanced challenges and bosses.

Path of Exile 2 co-directors Mark Roberts and Jonathan Rogers have addressed fan concerns about the game's demanding endgame difficulty. As a sequel to the 2013 game, Path of Exile 2 introduces a new skill system with 240 active skill gems and 12 character classes, leading into a challenging endgame with 100 maps after completing the six-act story.

Since its early access launch in December 2024, the isometric action RPG has attracted a robust player base. The developers are committed to enhancing the game with crucial quality-of-life updates in 2025. The first update of the year, Patch 0.1.0, tackles bugs and crashes, particularly on the PlayStation 5, and addresses issues with monsters, skills, and damage.

In an exclusive interview with content creators Darth Microtransaction and GhazzyTV, Roberts and Rogers discussed the upcoming Patch 0.1.1 and defended the endgame's difficulty. They emphasized the importance of the risk of failure, stating, “The whole ‘death actually mattering’ thing is actually important. You have to have some level of failure being possible.” They believe that simplifying the design, such as reverting to a single portal system, would alter the game's feel significantly. Players have expressed frustration over the endgame's challenging design, characterized by aggressive monster behavior and the need for robust player builds.

Path of Exile 2 Devs Defend Endgame's Difficulty

Regarding the loss of EXP during an Atlas run, Rogers explained, “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.” The team at Grinding Gear Games is actively evaluating the various elements contributing to the endgame's difficulty, aiming to preserve an authentic experience for players. Despite advanced tips available for navigating high-Waystone Tier maps, salvaging Quality gear, and using portals effectively, many fans continue to struggle with the game's challenges.

Path of Exile 2’s endgame unfolds in the Atlas of Worlds, where players progress by unlocking maps and defeating Beasts. Access to the Atlas is granted after completing the main campaign on Cruel Difficulty. Each interconnected world within the Atlas presents high-level challenges tailored for dedicated players, featuring formidable bosses, intricate maps, and the need for optimized builds through gear and skill enhancements.