PoE 2: Devs Address Endgame Concerns

Path of Exile 2's Challenging Endgame Defended by Developers

Despite player concerns, Path of Exile 2 developers are staunchly defending the game's demanding endgame. Co-director Jonathan Rogers explained that frequent deaths indicate players aren't yet ready for the increased challenge, stating, "...if you’re dying all the time then you’re probably not ready to keep going up the power curve."

The endgame, centered around the intricate Atlas of Worlds, presents players with a series of progressively difficult maps and formidable bosses. This demanding experience, featuring 100 endgame maps accessible after completing the six-act story, has been a point of contention since the game's December 2024 early access launch.

While the game boasts a strong player base and promises future quality-of-life improvements, the developers recently addressed player feedback in an interview with content creators Darth Microtransaction and GhazzyTV. They emphasized the importance of meaningful consequences for death, arguing that reducing difficulty would fundamentally alter the gameplay experience. The current endgame design, characterized by powerful enemy builds and fast-paced combat, presents a significant challenge for players.

Addressing the loss of experience points (EXP) during Atlas runs, Rogers clarified that this mechanic serves to keep players at an appropriate difficulty level. However, Grinding Gear Games is reviewing the various factors contributing to the endgame's difficulty to ensure an authentic and engaging experience. While numerous strategies exist to overcome the challenges (optimizing builds, utilizing portals, etc.), the endgame's difficulty remains a significant hurdle for many players.

The Atlas of Worlds, unlocked after completing the main campaign on Cruel difficulty, forms the core of the endgame. Players navigate interconnected maps, battling challenging bosses and optimizing their builds to conquer increasingly difficult content. This high-level content is specifically designed for experienced players who are prepared for intense and strategic gameplay.