Do you need to play Path of Exile 1 before Path of Exile 2?

With the highly anticipated ARPG sequel Path of Exile 2 expected to launch in early 2025 (following a beta in late 2024), many players are wondering: do you need to play Path of Exile 1 before the sequel?

Should you play Path of Exile 1 before Path of Exile 2?

Path of Exile is known for its complexity. By playing the original game, you should be able to gain a solid understanding of its core systems — like skill gems, the passive skill tree, and item crafting — which will make the transition to Path of Exile 2 much smoother.

The sequel will build on these concepts, so having a head start could give you an edge. Plus, you'll already be familiar with the game's unique mechanics and terminology, reducing the learning curve that usually comes when trying a new game.

Reasons to play Path of Exile 1 first

1. Both games will be supported. Even after Path of Exile 2 is released, the original game will continue to receive updates, expansions, and seasonal leagues. These leagues will launch about six weeks apart for each game, meaning you could enjoy playing both without feeling overwhelmed. Starting with the original game now could help you find a rhythm that works for you and prevent burnout when switching between the two.
2. The game is at its best. After years of updates, Path of Exile is in its best state yet. The game has been refined and improved over time, making it more accessible than ever. The current league mechanic is especially user-friendly, particularly if you enjoy management or strategy games.
3. You can build some foundational knowledge. Many of the core elements in Path of Exile 2 will be expansions or refinements of systems introduced in the first game. Getting familiar with these now will not only help you understand the sequel better but also deepen your appreciation for how far the game has come.

These are just a few of the core reasons to play Path of Exile 1 first. Plenty more have been discussed on Reddit, where the conversation has gained a lot of input.

Why you should skip Path of Exile 1 and just play Path of Exile 2

While Path of Exile has improved visually over time, some aspects of the campaign still show their age. If modern graphics are important to you, this might be off-putting to you as a gamer.

Starting with Path of Exile 2 means you’ll get a completely new, modern experience from the get-go. The sequel is built on newer technology and design principles, which could make it more engaging and enjoyable if you’re coming in with fresh eyes.

If you decide to skip the original Path of Exile and jump straight into the sequel, you won’t be missing out on too much, as most league mechanics (e.g. Delve) will be shared.

Path of Exile 2 is designed as a standalone experience that introduces some of its own systems, mechanics, and story. While knowing the first game might help you appreciate the sequel’s improvements, Path of Exile 2 is meant to be fully enjoyable on its own.

Plus, with the revamped skill gem system, dual-specialization passive skill trees, and all-new items and bosses, there’s plenty to learn that will be fresh and exciting, even for seasoned veterans of the first game.

What is Path of Exile 2?

As the first trailer for Path of Exile 2 was posted three years ago, I've dropped the more recent console trailer above.

Path of Exile 2 is going to be the next-generation upgrade of the original game, as well as its sequel. It has a new six-act campaign, which takes place years after the events of the first game. Players will return to the dark world of Wraeclast to battle against the spreading corruption.

With 12 character classes, a revamped skill gem system, dual-specialization passive skill trees, and over 100 unique boss encounters, Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a meatier yet more refined experience than its predecessor. The sequel aims to preserve what fans love about the original game while improving gameplay for new and returning players.

What are the differences between Path of Exile 1 and Path of Exile 2?

Character Classes

• Path of Exile 1 offers seven base character classes, each with three Ascendancy specializations, making for a total of 19 Ascendancy classes.
• Path of Exile 2 expands to 12 character classes, with each base class having two variants, resulting in 36 Ascendancy classes. This allows for more diverse and specialized builds.

Campaign Structure

• Path of Exile 1 features a 10-act campaign followed by various endgame content, like the Atlas of Worlds.
• Path of Exile 2 introduces a brand-new six-act campaign that takes place years after the original game. This campaign is completely separate from the original, though both campaigns lead into the same shared endgame. I can't talk about the endgame yet because even the developer doesn't know what it looks like.

Skill Gem System

• Path of Exile 1 skill gems and support gems are socketed into gear. To use multiple support gems on a skill, you need to link the sockets on your gear, which can be challenging and requires significant investment when linking five or six gems together.
• Path of Exile 2 the skill gem system is overhauled, allowing support gems to be socketed directly into skill gems. Every skill can be six-linked independently, removing some of the gear dependency and making skill customization easier to understand.

Item System

• Path of Exile 1 has a complex item system with various item types, including weapons, armor, flasks, and accessories. Players engage in crafting and modifying items through orbs and other currencies.
• Path of Exile 2 will have new weapon types like spears, crossbows, and flails, as well as redesigned items - like scepters! The sequel also adds new base types and unique items, expanding the variety and strategic options available. Currencies sometimes work differently, one of the reasons for which is to make crafting more accesible.

Passive Skill Tree

• Path of Exile 1 features a massive passive skill tree that all characters share. Your starting point on the tree depends on your character class, but you can branch out in any direction.
• Path of Exile 2 retains the iconic passive skill tree but introduces dual-specialization, allowing you to allocate points to two different sets of skills that activate based on your weapon or skill type. This adds flexibility and complexity in character builds.

Ultimately, whether or not you should play Path of Exile 1 before Path of Exile 2 comes down to your personal preference.

If you’re eager to journey into the world of Wraeclast and start building your knowledge of the game and its lore, the original 2013 Path of Exile is a great place to start. It’s free, and getting familiar with its systems will undoubtedly help you when the sequel arrives.

However, if you’re more interested in waiting for a more polished experience, starting with Path of Exile 2 is perfectly fine. You'll be waiting for a bit longer, though.

Want to read more about Path of Exile here at Pro Game Guides? Check out All Classes in Path of Exile 2 and The Ranger class in Path of Exile 2 makes you feel like Legolas (Preview).