Path of Exile 2 Devs Comment on Endgame Difficulty

Summary

• Path of Exile 2 developers are defending the challenging endgame, despite player concerns.
• Co-director Jonathan Rogers stated 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 fan concerns about 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 encounter 100 challenging endgame maps.

Since its December 2024 early access launch, the game has attracted a significant player base. 2025 promises 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 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 meaningful death, stating the experience wouldn't be the same without a degree of challenge. Players previously criticized the endgame's demanding builds and fast-paced monsters, making strategic combat difficult.

Path of Exile 2 Devs Defend Endgame's Difficulty

Regarding experience loss during Atlas runs, Rogers explained it keeps players at an appropriate level, suggesting frequent deaths indicate a need to improve. Grinding Gear Games is reviewing endgame's difficulty, aiming to preserve the core experience. While numerous advanced tips exist for conquering high-tier maps, salvaging gear, and using portals effectively, 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 offer high-level challenges for experienced players, including tough bosses, intricate maps, and the need for optimized builds.