Summary
- Path of Exile 2 developers are defending the challenging endgame, despite player concerns.
- Co-director Jonathan Rogers explained that frequent deaths indicate players aren't ready to progress.
- Endgame involves navigating the complex Atlas of Worlds, facing difficult challenges and bosses.
Path of Exile 2 co-directors Mark Roberts and Jonathan Rogers addressed player feedback regarding the demanding endgame difficulty. This sequel to the 2013 original features a new skill system with 240 active skill gems and 12 character classes. After completing the six-act story, players access 100 challenging endgame maps.
Since its December 2024 early access launch, the game has attracted a large player base. 2025 promises significant quality-of-life improvements while players await the full release. The first 2025 update (Patch 0.1.0) addressed bugs, crashes (especially on PlayStation 5), monster issues, skill problems, and damage inconsistencies.
In an exclusive interview with 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 "death mattering," stating the game wouldn't feel the same without a significant challenge. Players previously criticized the endgame's demanding builds and fast-paced monsters, making strategic encounters difficult.
Path of Exile 2 Devs Defend Endgame's Difficulty
Regarding experience point loss during Atlas runs, Rogers clarified that it prevents players from progressing beyond their skill level. He stated, "If you’re dying all the time then you’re probably not ready to keep going up the power curve." Grinding Gear Games is reviewing endgame's difficulty, aiming to retain an authentic experience. While advanced tips exist for navigating high-Waystone Tier maps, salvaging gear, and using portals strategically, many players still find the endgame extremely challenging.
Path of Exile 2's endgame unfolds within the Atlas of Worlds. Players progress by unlocking maps and defeating the Beasts inhabiting them. Accessible after completing the main campaign on Cruel Difficulty, the interconnected Atlas worlds present high-level challenges for experienced players, including tough bosses, intricate maps, and the need for optimized builds.
