Since the launch of “Dawn of the Hunt,”Path of Exile 2 has experienced significant changes and community feedback. Following the extensive nerf wave in patch 0.2.0, many players voiced their concerns, leading to several subsequent balancing patches. Meanwhile, competing action role-playing games (ARPGs) such as Last Epoch and Diablo 4’s Season 8 have managed to attract a portion of the PoE 2 player base.
As the initial hype subsides, many players find themselves engaging with a limited range of builds, eagerly anticipating improvements in patch 0.3.0. For some, the situation has prompted a reconsideration of the original Path of Exile, especially for those who encountered ARPGs for the first time through PoE 2. If you’re on the fence about returning to the first installment, here are five compelling reasons to give it a try.
Five Reasons to Revisit Path of Exile 1 After Playing PoE 2
While the ARPG genre offers numerous alternatives, returning to an older game like Path of Exile 1 holds plenty of value, especially since it provides extensive content without additional purchases. Notably, players can utilize shared stash tabs across both games, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
1) Enhanced Game Balance
Having evolved over more than a decade, Path of Exile 1 benefits from Grinding Gear Games’ ongoing efforts to achieve class balance. Though some classes will always stand out, the game offers a commendable level of equity among options. This balance extends to gameplay mechanics, with consistent league starters that facilitate fast leveling while promoting a broader array of formidable endgame builds.
2) Diverse Build Opportunities
Path of Exile 1 boasts a plethora of skill gems not found in PoE 2, which may be reintroduced with future class updates and ascendancies. This variety is where PoE 1 excels, as its balance allows numerous builds to be effective. While PoE 2 presents multiple build options, including simplified “one-button”playstyles, the original game features popular mechanics like Righteous Fire, which enables players to focus on movement and strategy rather than complex controls.
3) Superior Endgame Content
Years of continuous content development mean that Path of Exile 1 is rich with engaging endgame features. Players can explore myriad boss battles, challenges, and extensive crafting systems. While PoE 2 has seen notable endgame systems, PoE 1 provides an even broader spectrum of content designed to keep players occupied for months on end.
4) Exciting Teasers for New Content
One of the key motivations to explore Path of Exile 1 is the impending release of a new league. Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has already teased an upcoming league that is creating considerable excitement, as hints suggest an imminent Atlas Expansion. Unlike regular leagues that appear periodically, Atlas Expansions occur annually, bringing with them fresh map sets, a new pinnacle boss, and abundant exploration opportunities, making it an ideal time to delve into the game.
5) Thriving Player Community
Despite the recent debut of Path of Exile 2, the original game has seen a resurgence in player activity during the latest leagues. Although the game has not featured substantial updates in recent months, it continues to support a vibrant community of engaged players. As anticipation builds for the upcoming Path of Exile 3.26 league, now is the perfect moment to reacquaint yourself with this classic title.