Welcome to the Beginner Guide for Path of Exile 2! This guide covers everything you need to know as a new player, including the differences between Path of Exile 1 and Path of Exile 2, essential gameplay mechanics, and tips for enjoying your journey through Wraeclast.

What is the Path of Exile?

Path of Exile is an action RPG set in a dark fantasy world, emphasizing character development, loot acquisition, and intense combat. Players build their characters, hack and slash through hordes of monsters, and collect powerful gear to enhance their abilities.

Path of Exile 2 is set to launch in Early Access on November 15, 2024. For detailed information on how to access the Early Access, check our PoE 2 Release Date article. This guide will continue to evolve as we learn more about PoE 2, so stay tuned for updates!

Getting Started with Builds

Path of Exile is known for its complex character building. While this can seem intimidating at first, it shouldn't deter you from starting the game. There's plenty of enjoyment to be found even if you're not rushing to the endgame or creating overpowered builds.

Should You Follow a Build Guide?

Starting your journey with a build guide can simplify your experience, but you should also feel free to experiment.

Reasons to Follow a Build Guide:

Strength: A good build will help your character clear most content effectively.

Time-Saving: You won't spend as much time figuring out what to do next.

Experience More: You'll progress through the game faster, enjoying various content.

Laid-Back Gaming: A solid build can lead to a more relaxed playthrough.

If you choose to follow a build guide, look for "starter" or "league start" builds. These typically don't require expensive gear or unique POE items, making them cost-effective for new players.

Reasons to Not Follow a Build Guide:

Personal Exploration: You want to learn about the game mechanics and enjoy discovering them for yourself.

Leisurely Playstyle: You're okay with taking your time and not rushing through the game.

Acceptance of Weakness: You understand your character might not be as strong as others who follow meta builds.

Exploration Freedom: You have ample time to play and want to explore the game at your own pace.

Ultimately, Path of Exile is about enjoyment. Whether you prefer the "meta" approach with build guides or a more exploratory route, the choice is yours. As you progress and create more characters, you'll gradually gain a deeper understanding of the game mechanics.

Game Modes & Leagues in PoE 2

Path of Exile 2 features four confirmed base game modes:

Standard

The default mode with no extra rules.

Players can trade, party up, and play as they wish.

Hardcore

Similar to Standard, but characters move to Standard upon death, giving you just one life.

Solo Self Found (SSF)

Players cannot trade or group with others; all items must be found independently.

Hardcore SSF (HCSSF)

Combines Hardcore and SSF modes. Death in this mode results in a transition to SSF.

Ruthless (PoE 1)

A game mode with significantly reduced drops and increased difficulty, catering to players seeking a challenging experience.

Character Migration

At any time, you can migrate your character from SSF to Standard (with or without your loot). In Hardcore, migration requires your character to die, making it challenging to transfer loot directly to Standard without dying first.

Conclusion

As you prepare for the Early Access of Path of Exile 2, remember that the most important aspect is to enjoy the experience in the way that suits you best. Whether you lean towards following build guides or exploring the game on your own, you're bound to uncover the depths of Wraeclast and its intricate mechanics.

Get ready to embark on your journey, and may your path be filled with loot and adventure!

By strategically using league mechanics, you'll ensure that your hybrid build stays optimized while keeping your POE currency reserves intact for critical moments. Enjoy your time in Path of Exile 2!