[Feedback] My Honest Review of Path of Exile 2 After 220+ Hours of Playtime

Hello Exiles,
After playing Path of Exile 2 for over 220 hours, I wanted to share my honest review along with some suggestions for improvement. This feedback is based on my personal experience, combined with insights from the community, and structured with the help of ChatGPT to ensure clarity.

What Works Well...

🎯 Fantastic Gameplay :
The first three acts are incredibly engaging. I’ve tried all the classes (witch, necromancer with raging spirits, warrior, hunter, sorceress), and each has a distinct and enjoyable playstyle. The rhythm feels smooth, and the addition of ZQSD movement is a fantastic improvement for those who dislike click-to-move mechanics.

🎵 Exceptional Sound Design :
The sound design stands out as one of the game’s strongest features. Every ability, environment, and interaction feels immersive and well-designed.

💰 Integrated Market and Trade
The trade site (https://www.pathofexile.com/trade2/search/poe2/Standard) is functional and helpful. However, having a fully integrated auction house in the game would streamline trading significantly. While tools like Overwolf exist, trade systems should be part of the core experience and not rely on external solutions.

Suggestions for Improvement :

~~🗂️ Loot Filters for Console and GeForce NOW Players~~
~~Custom loot filters are essential in Path of Exile. Console and GeForce NOW players should have access to filter integration, ideally through an online hosting system (similar to POE1’s filter hosting).~~ DONE


🏰 Trials System (Ascending) :
The current trials feel overly punishing, especially for some classes. Possible improvements:

Retry System: Allow retries based on death-related affixes (e.g., restart from the last room a set number of times).
Procedural Dungeons: Trials could offer infinite progression or tie into the map system, unlocking nodes or modifiers upon completion.

🔧 Unified Crafting Interface :
Crafting tables should be consolidated into a single, streamlined interface. Splitting tools across multiple systems doesn’t add depth and can feel tedious.

👑 Hardcore Rewards :
Hardcore mode players deserve unique rewards, such as exclusive cosmetics that cannot be purchased in the store. This would recognize their dedication and encourage more players to attempt the challenge.

⚔️ Double Specialization for Weapons :
The double-specialization system tied to weapons is a great mechanic but poorly explained for new players. Adding a tutorial or clearer guidance would help beginners use it effectively.

💀 Endgame Punishment :
Endgame maps are highly punishing. Consider these adjustments:

Allow players to re-enter maps via portals with a -15% XP penalty for their current level.
Alternatively, let them keep map progress but lose XP and/or loot. This maintains stakes while reducing frustration.

🤝 Party Upscaling Mechanics :
High-level players joining lower-level parties often ruin the experience by one-shotting everything. Upscaling mechanics should balance DPS to the party host or limit overpowered spells in such scenarios.

👁️ Visual Clutter in Group Play :
Group play can feel overwhelming due to excessive visual effects. Adding a toggle to limit or disable others’ effects would make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts :
Path of Exile 2 is a promising game with incredible potential. Its engaging classes, addictive progression loop, and stellar sound design are highlights, but addressing issues like trials, loot filters, crafting, and party mechanics would significantly enhance the experience.

Let’s work together to make Path of Exile 2 the best it can be.

💬 What are your thoughts? Do you agree or have additional suggestions? Let’s discuss! This review was written by Zadyk with the help of ChatGPT (because we can). 😊