
Overview of Path of Exile 2
- The gameplay experience of Path of Exile 2 diverges from its predecessor through a more deliberate pace and streamlined crafting mechanics.
- The sequel omits the Orbs of Alteration to rectify economic challenges encountered in the original game, striving for a more equitable crafting environment.
- There remains a possibility for the return of Orbs of Alteration in the future, provided they can be properly balanced in terms of rarity and efficacy.
While some may argue that Path of Exile 2 does not fully qualify as a sequel due to its distinct approach, particularly the shift towards slower and more tactical gameplay during the campaign, it is clear that both titles share foundational elements. From the similar classes to the use of Skill Gems, the lineage is evident. However, notable differences exist; for instance, players in Path of Exile 2 are unable to switch Ascendancy classes as they can in the original game, where this can be accomplished by respeccing points and navigating the Labyrinth again. This absence, alongside other features, positions Path of Exile 2 as a unique entity.
It is common in the gaming industry for sequels to omit features that were problematic or poorly received in prior titles, or even to introduce modifications that enhance core gameplay. In Path of Exile 2, the crafting system is more limited compared to the complex mechanics available in the original game. While this simplification could be seen as both beneficial and detrimental, it highlights the intricate balance between crafting variety and player accessibility. In the original, players often relied on Orbs of Alteration to optimize their gear by rerolling affixes until they achieved desirable outcomes, a practice that had consequences for the in-game economy.
Understanding the Orb of Alteration in Path of Exile

The Orb of Alteration serves as one of the many currencies within the Path of Exile universe. Players can accumulate a significant number throughout their progression, often reaching the hundreds by the end of the ten acts. This orb is used to transform the attributes of a Magic item; it rerolls all affixes based on the item’s level, introducing new potential modifiers. This system, while exciting, can lead to challenges such as economic instability and power inflation within seasonal content, as players tend to excessively utilize Orbs of Alteration in hopes of landing superior affixes before finalizing their item crafting.
The Case Against Orbs of Alteration in Path of Exile 2






In Path of Exile 2, Orbs of Alteration have been completely omitted from the currency roster, a move that has its pros and cons. Fans of the series might miss the orb’s iconic status, particularly given that the current crafting options are generally constrained and often depend on seasonal mechanics that lack sufficient availability. Without Orbs of Alteration, players have fewer avenues for crafting high-tier items, which could significantly influence the overall gameplay experience.
Nonetheless, the decision to exclude Orbs of Alteration is a tactical one due to their potential for economic detriment, a phenomenon witnessed in the original game. Players might have prioritized acquiring currency to amass Orbs of Alteration—seeking the chance to craft exceptionally powerful items—over engaging directly with the content offered in Path of Exile 2. While Orbs of Annulment remain part of the gameplay, other options, like Divine Orbs, can help reroll item values, offering alternatives for players.
The Future of Orbs of Alteration in Path of Exile 2
There is still a possibility that GGG may consider reintroducing Orbs of Alteration, whether with modifications or under stricter availability. For it to fit seamlessly into the game’s economy, they could be made rarer than their predecessors, thus elevating their value and reducing the likelihood of spamming items. Similar to how Exalted Orbs in the sequel currently reflect the role of Chaos Orbs, a reimagined Orb of Alteration with scarcity could enhance the game’s crafting balance. However, these notions remain speculative, and it’s possible that GGG may choose to keep this feature from returning entirely.
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