Path of Exile 2 has emerged as one of the standout gaming releases of 2024, surpassing expectations and proving to be a blockbuster hit. Developed by Grinding Gear Games, this isometric action RPG made a stunning debut on current-generation consoles last month, captivating gamers worldwide. Priced modestly at $30—especially notable considering its predecessor is free-to-play—Path of Exile 2 quickly soared in the sales rankings, establishing itself as a significant player in the industry. At its peak, the game achieved an impressive milestone of over 570, 000 concurrent players on Steam, showcasing a player engagement level significantly higher than that of the original Path of Exile.
Offering remarkable value for its price, Path of Exile 2 features an extensive amount of content. Players can expect to invest approximately 33 hours to complete the main storyline, or around 53 hours if they opt to tackle all side quests. This game length outstrips that of comparable titles like Diablo 4, which has a slightly shorter campaign. Notably, Path of Exile 2 is launching in early access, meaning that its narrative and gameplay are still evolving, with the final 1.0 version expected to be released in the coming months.
Early Access: Path of Exile 2’s Temporary Status
Expected May 2025 Launch for Path of Exile 2
According to information on the game’s Steam page, Grinding Gear Games intends for the early access model to ensure players receive the best overall experience upon full release. The studio emphasizes the importance of community feedback for balancing character builds, items, and economy systems within the game. While they state that Path of Exile 2 will remain in early access “as long as needed, ”there is an aspiration for a launch within approximately six months.
Reflection on Path of Exile 1’s Early Access Duration
Looking at the development history of the original Path of Exile, it’s vital for fans to temper their expectations. The first installment spent over a year in early access before its official launch. Initially released through a closed beta accessible only via supporter packs, it lasted nine months from April 2012 to January 2013, followed by an open beta that lasted until the full release in October 2013—an additional eight months.
Potential Delays for Path of Exile 2 into Late Summer
Given that the original Path of Exile took more than 17 months to exit early access, there is a reasonable chance that its successor might also experience delays. Grinding Gear Games has announced plans to significantly expand the content available in Path of Exile 2. This development approach may necessitate a timeline that extends beyond the originally targeted May 2025 release, possibly pushing the launch into late summer instead.
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