Confirming that the free-to-play action RPG will have its accessibility expanded to consoles, Grinding Gear Games has used the PlayStation State of Play livestream to affirm that Path of Exile 2 will be coming to consoles – not only the PlayStation 5 as one would expect given where this news was announced, but also the Xbox Series X|S. These console versions complement the originally announced PC release. The game is expected to enter an Early Access period sometime this year.
Path of Exile 2 is also confirmed to feature couch co-op and cross-play, allowing players to enjoy the game together on the same console, either using a single account or two separate accounts. Additionally, the game supports full cross-play and cross-progression, enabling players to switch devices without losing progress.
Path of Exile 2 will grant players access to twelve character classes, with each class having two variants based on combinations of Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence. Each class variant also offers three Ascendancy specialisations, resulting in 36 options for players to choose from. Players will also be able to customise their experience through features including:
New Skill Gem System
With 240 Skill Gems and 200 Support Gems, players can create powerful combinations to suit their playstyle. The new system allows Support Gems to be socketed directly into Skill Gems, streamlining the process and making it possible to six-link every skill.
Dual-Specialisation Passive Skill Tree
The iconic Passive Skill Tree returns, now featuring 1,500 skills and the ability to dual-specialise. Players can allocate passive skill points to different sets of skills that activate based on the weapon or skill type in use, allowing for versatile gameplay without sacrificing specialisation.
Other promoted features of the game include:
New Items and Boss Encounters
The game includes 700 equipment base types, each with unique items, and introduces new weapon types such as spears, crossbows, and flails. Every area of the campaign features unique boss encounters, with over a hundred bosses to challenge players.
Endgame Content
After completing the six-act campaign, players will access a new endgame with over 100 maps, each containing a unique boss encounter. More details about the endgame content will be revealed closer to the release.
Fair-to-Play Model
Path of Exile 2 aims to continue the tradition of the original game, offering a completely free-to-play experience without pay-to-win elements. Purchases will be shared between both Path of Exile games, and expansions will be provided for both titles.
