Why Path of Exile 2 Needs to Incorporate Choice-Related Features from Path of Exile 1

Overview of Choices in Path of Exile 2

In Path of Exile 2, players face fewer yet consequential decisions that can significantly influence their character builds, exemplified by the Venom Draught rewards.
Unlike its predecessor, Path of Exile, PoE 2 locks in quest choices and rewards, preventing players from altering their decisions post-selection.
This inflexible approach can be perceived as punitive, highlighting the necessity for more adaptable options to improve the overall player experience.

With its early access status and the wealth of experience from the developers at Grinding Gear Games (GGG), there is considerable potential for Path of Exile 2 to evolve. Recognizing its unique position among action RPGs, the game aims to showcase the evolution of design compared to classics like Diablo 2 and the more recent Diablo 4. While PoE 2 has numerous attributes in common with its predecessor, it also introduces several changes that could enhance gameplay, particularly regarding player choice within the campaign.

The predecessor of Path of Exile 2 also offered players meaningful decisions during its campaign, notably the selection of a Bandit Lord to support—an impactful choice that could dramatically alter one’s build. However, in the original game, players had the option to later change this decision using Orbs of Regret. In contrast, the sequel currently lacks this flexibility, leading to locked-in choices that may frustrate some players.

The Impact of Locked Choices in Path of Exile 2

While player choices in Path of Exile 2 may appear limited compared to the original game, they carry significant weight. A notable instance is the Ancient Vows quest in Act 2, where players must locate two parts of a Medallion corresponding with different factions. Combining these relics in the Valley of Titans enables players to select one of two lasting benefits, though players can change this option by returning to a Waypoint, a stark contrast to the decisions made during the Venom Draught quest.

In Act 3 and again during the Cruel difficulty, players can engage with a side quest titled The Slithering Dead. This involves exploring the Venom Crypts to retrieve an item called Venom Draught, which grants three distinct rewards when presented to Servi at the Ziggurat Encampment:

Venom Draught of Stone: 25% increased Stun Threshold (Normal difficulty)
Venom Draught of the Veil: 30% increased Elemental Ailment Threshold (Normal difficulty)
Venom Draught of Clarity: 25% increased Mana Regeneration Rate (Normal difficulty)
Venom Draught of Stone: +10% Chaos Resistance (Cruel difficulty)
Venom Draught of the Veil: +5 to All Attributes (Cruel difficulty)
Venom Draught of Clarity: 15% reduced Slowing Potency of Debuffs (Cruel difficulty)

Each of these rewards has its unique advantages; however, certain options may prove to be significantly more valuable in endgame scenarios. For instance, a Chaos Inoculation build would not benefit substantially from the Venom Draught of Stone, while builds focused on stacking stats would likely favor the +5 to all Attributes from the Cruel difficulty.

The Case for Changeable Venom Draught Choices

The core issue arises from the permanent nature of these choices, which stands in contrast to other quests and options within Path of Exile 2. This rigidity can be particularly taxing for new players or for those looking to re-spec their character. Furthermore, the inability to alter Ascendancy classes compounds the challenge; while the game clearly aims to emphasize meaningful player decisions, this rigid structure can feel unwelcoming to those who may wish to reconsider their options.

To improve the player experience significantly, it would be prudent for GGG to consider future updates that allow players to modify their Venom Draught choices, creating a more flexible system that accommodates evolving gameplay strategies.

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