Path of Exile 2 Has Multiple Major Flaws the Devs Had Already Addressed in the Previous Game

Path of Exile 2 early access recently launched with a massive amount of hype. However, there are various aspects that show why the game is still in early access. Initially thought out as a simple update to PoE1, PoE2 grew over the years into a full-fledged sequel, but some of the resolved issues from the original game have frustratingly carried over.

Players are enjoying the game with its upgraded graphics and new systems. | Image Credit: Grinding Gear Games

While the game has stunning visuals, and some fun boss fights, there are still various features that were resolved in PoE1 but still haven’t made it to PoE2. From frustrating map designs to a restrictive crafting system, there are aspects of Path of Exile 2 that feel like a step back from its predecessor.

Path of Exile 2 brought innovation but with old frustrations

Players are facing similar issues they faced in the original. | Image Credit: Grinding Gear Games

Path of Exile 2‘s early access started on December 6th and brought a lot of excitement. The game offers modern graphics, smooth WASD controls, and a variety of exciting new mechanics.

However, many players have pointed out that core design flaws from the original PoE feel even worse in the sequel, and some of these issues had been resolved in the first game.

One of the most glaring issues is with its Mapping system, which feels like a step backward. It features random blanks, unusual layouts, and excessive backtracking that disrupt the flow and overall gameplay experience. The inability to easily locate specific maps for farming sessions is frustrating, to say the least.

Pinnacle bosses have always been a big part of the game’s experience, but PoE2 takes the concept of “high stakes” a little too far. In the sequel, players are restricted to a single portal instead of the multiple in the original. This one-portal mechanic feels downright punishing. Sure, it adds a bit more challenge, but the risk involved is a bit too high.

Additionally, Essences and targeting omens are now far too rare and random, making crafting a gamble for a casual player who wants to try new builds. While these may seem like minor issues to some, from the mapping system to the bosses, all these problems had already been addressed in the original game.

In PoE1, players had more control over their maps and could customize farming routes. Pinnacle bosses also had multiple portals, giving players a chance to retry encounters if they failed.

Players still have high hopes for the title

Players are hopeful that the developers are going to fix the before. | Image Credit: Grinding Gear Games

Despite the frustrating issues PoE2 currently presents, the community remains optimistic. The game has high core potential, with stunning visuals, an immersive soundtrack, and engaging boss mechanics. Additionally, with developers consistently introducing patches, the future looks promising.

The main belief in players’ minds is that while not following their own established fixes for the current was a mistake, these access hiccups are temporary. They trust that the developers will take note of the feedback, fix the bugs, and address the flaws.

The developers at Grinding Gear Games need to look at the lessons PoE1 taught and apply those to PoE2 as well. Players know that the original game has always been about constant growth, and they’re hoping that PoE2 will follow that same trajectory, becoming the game it was always meant to be.

In the end, while Path of Exile 2 shows great promise, it still has some serious issues/mistakes to work out. Hopefully, the devs at Grinding Gear Games will take note and fine-tune the game before its full release.