Recently, Last Epoch hosted an exciting event inviting one player per class to achieve level 100 following the release of their latest update, Tombs of the Erased. This has inevitably sparked a flurry of inquiries among players regarding experience points (EXP), particularly about the presence of an EXP penalty system, its operational mechanics, and strategies for optimizing the leveling experience.
In gaming lingo, EXP refers to experience points that players earn passively through various activities, such as defeating monsters and conquering bosses. Accumulating these points enables players to level up their characters, unlocking passive boosts and enhancing their overall gameplay through different progression systems. As is the case in many action role-playing games (ARPGs), players can allocate points into a Passive skill tree to bolster their character’s power.
However, it’s essential to note that Last Epoch does incorporate specific EXP penalty mechanics. To understand these further, let’s explore how the 시스템 works and the rationale behind its introduction.
Understanding the EXP Penalty in Last Epoch

The purpose of the EXP penalty is to maintain balance by discouraging players from exploiting less favorable methods to gain experience, which could lead to premature leveling. Different games adopt unique strategies for this. For instance, in Path of Exile, created by Grinding Gear Games, players experience an involuntary reduction in EXP upon death in higher-tier zones, thereby incentivizing careful gameplay.
In Last Epoch, the mechanism for EXP reduction is straightforward. Developers have established a system where players are required to remain within ten levels of the current zone to earn full experience. This measure was introduced during the beta phase in patch 0.9.0, while an earlier version, seen in patch 0.8.5, restricted the penalty to the Monoliths of Fate with a tighter threshold of only five levels.
Additionally, specific in-game regulations are implemented to effectively enforce the EXP penalty. For example, players who fall five levels below the recommended range will also experience reduced EXP gain, promoting engagement within the proper level brackets. Notably, participating in Empowered Monoliths at higher levels of Corruption yields significantly greater experience, along with enhanced loot quality and quantity.
On a positive note, the introduction of the new Weaver faction has greatly benefited players focused on EXP farming. The newly added Woven Echoes feature has revolutionized power leveling, allowing players to stack shrines on the Monolith Echo and acquire a buff for “Increased experience gain.”This can be potent enough for adept players to gain one or two additional levels efficiently.
For further insights, check out these additional Last Epoch features and guides: