Path of Exile 2 is set to receive an expansive update with the release of patch 0.2.0e, which is scheduled to go live on April 10 at 3 PM PDT. This update is designed to address many community concerns regarding the Dawn of the Hunt league, particularly with regards to gameplay balance and monster encounters. One of the most anticipated changes includes a modification to the revival timers for minions, enhancing their presence during gameplay.
Although the full patch notes are yet to be released, the developers have given a sneak peek into the significant changes players can expect. Below is a compilation of known adjustments that will be implemented in patch 0.2.0e, which serves as a preview of the forthcoming updates.
Highlights of Path of Exile 2 Patch 0.2.0e (April 10, PDT)
Enhanced Mapping Features
Rare monsters will now be visible on the minimap at all times, providing players immediate access to these targets as they enter a map. Additionally, the Delirium fog’s duration has been extended by 2.5 times, making it easier to farm Distilled Emotions and achieve Amulet Anointment.
Monster Speed Adjustments
Developer Note: Several players have reported feeling overwhelmed by the speed of monsters. We are addressing this issue on a case-by-case basis, and the following changes have been implemented:
- Some humanoid monsters, including Cultists from Freythorn and the Faridun, will no longer interrupt their melee attacks if players move out of range. This adjustment allows for smoother engagement and opportunities to utilize skills between assaults.
- The Haste Aura modifier has been removed from already fast monsters.
Act 1 Adjustments
- Werewolf and Tendril Prowlers will switch to a walking stance after executing melee attacks.
- Hungering Stalkers have seen a reduction in both Life and Damage by 12%.
- The number of Bloom Serpents in The Red Vale has been reduced.
- Venomous Crabs in the Hunting Grounds are now halved in number.
- Blood Cretins will have a shorter duration for their Blood Pools post-death.
Act 2 Changes
- Boulder Ants in Titan Valley will be replaced by Risen Maraketh for a better gameplay experience.
- All Faridun monsters have been modified to eliminate interrupt events during their attacks.
Act 3 Modifications
- Diretusk Boar and Antlion Chargers will push players to the side instead of dragging them along during their charges.
- Monster diversity in Lost City has been adjusted to include fewer ranged enemies.
Developer Note: Some areas exhibit inconsistent monster density, leading to unintended gameplay experiences. A fix is forthcoming in a later patch.
Boss Encounters Revamped
The update also brings several changes to boss encounters, specifically:
- For Viper Napuatzi, the amount and size of Chaos Rains have been reduced.
- Uxmal will change locations less frequently and will no longer recharge Energy Shield while airborne.
- The arena for Xyclucian has undergone visual adjustments to improve clarity during fights.
Class-Specific Adjustments
Sorceress Modifications
- Arc will trigger a lightning explosion on hitting a shocked enemy, though it will no longer apply shock.
- Incinerate’s exposure duration is increased to eight seconds.
- Frostbolt’s explosion radius has been enlarged by 50%.
Huntress Adjustments
- Parried enemies will no longer evade attacks.
- Detonating the spear stuck in enemies will now always trigger a bleed effect.
Warrior Changes
- Temper Weapon on Smith of Kitava now accumulates empowerments at a faster rate.
Minion Revive Timer Changes
The patch will also modify how minion revival timers function. When the first minion dies, the timer will be set to 7.5 seconds, but this duration reduces incrementally for additional minions that die, capping at the initial 7.5 seconds. This change aims to improve consistency in minion presence during combat.
Crafting Enhancements
- Wands and Staves will now support socketing.
- New runes for casters will be introduced, offering diverse gameplay options.
Upcoming Changes – Patch 0.2.0f
In upcoming patches, including patch 0.2.0f which is expected post-April 14, the following elements will be addressed:
Charm Improvements
Developer Note: We aim to make charms more useful by addressing existing issues surrounding their functionality and expanding on the charm system.
- Modifications in charm slots will grant varying slots based on belt levels.
- Numerous charms will be enhanced to ensure they provide the intended benefits.
Stash Tab Affinities
The stash system will also see improvements, allowing for better organization across multiple item categories.
Atlas Bookmarks
- New bookmark functionality to help streamline navigation through the gameplay world.
As the release of patch 0.2.0e approaches, players can anticipate a wealth of changes designed to enhance gameplay, balance, and overall experience in Path of Exile 2. This update not only addresses player feedback but also sets the stage for future improvements and gameplay dynamics.