Just when we thought that December was going to go light on games, some of the recent releases say otherwise. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is surprisingly fantastic, Marvel Rivals is a smashing success, and one particular action RPG is looking to make a thunderous return to the scene. Grinding Gear Games has launched Path of Exile 2 in early access, and it’s currently showing up to be all that it’s cracked up to be.

While it’s too early to say if Path of Exile 2 can continue to pile on the updates that made the first game an extremely impressive action RPG, several hours into early access shows that it shines through its methodical combat and staggering skill tree, promising a bright future for this highly anticipated sequel from Grinding Gear Games.

Methodical Combat

One of the most striking aspects of Path of Exile 2 is its methodical combat system. Unlike the fast-paced approach of other titles, Path of Exile 2 employs a more deliberate and strategic design because of the introduction of the dodge roll mechanic, which adds a layer of depth to its gameplay and makes it more involved. Players can access this by pressing the spacebar, and if done correctly, it will lead players out of harm’s way.

While it’s arguable that this isn’t a new mechanic by any means, it makes combat sequences more dynamic because you can cancel your attacks, making the last-minute decision to move away from incoming danger something players will have to get used to.

I always tend to gravitate towards minion-based classes like the Necromancer in Diablo IV, but this time around, I opted for the Mercenary, which uses crossbows to full effect. I get to equip elemental-based ammunition like incendiary and permafrost, which gives me versatility in how I approach encounters. I can also control crowds using grenades, giving me enough tools to handle playing solo.

Mercenaries are quite capable in Path of Exile 2, and while I can’t compare to the other classes, I found that I can take on most challenges so far because of the various ammunition and grenades in my arsenal. I can deal with danger from range with a rapid shot, and in the case that enemies get close, I can blast them with a shotgun-like burst shot that obliterates threats.

While versatile and capable, Mercenaries have long skill cooldowns, so the dodge roll is a helpful tool if the swarms get too close for comfort. I’m looking to go deep enough with the Mercenary first before I shift to a different class, but based on what I’m seeing, it’s going to take a while because enemies and bosses are quite challenging but very satisfying to beat. It also helps that the game looks and feels good to play, offering chunky hits and visceral action.

Staggering Skill Tree

There’s a meme running around that if you thought the skill tree in Diablo IV was crazy, then Path of Exile 2 will totally blow your mind. In particular, the passive skill tree is so complex that it literally looks like stars in the night sky. Despite looking intimidating, it’s not as complex as it looks, and there are definite paths that you can take to get what you’re looking for.

The tree looks as complex as it is because each direction focuses on certain attributes. If your character needs Strength, you go left, and so on. That said, since classes share this tree, then you can literally build your character to be something you could have only imagined. Since my Mercenary focuses on Strength and Dexterity, my skill tree will lead me south. Deviating a bit will lead me to focus more on a specific attribute, so the choice is completely up to me.

Skills in Path of Exile 2 are dependent on skills gems, which are used to both unlock and upgrade abilities. Uncut skill gems can be obtained around the world and will allow players to unlock skills that they want, but these can also be used to upgrade skills, provided the gem you have is of a higher level!

In short, skills in the game are equipped through these gems instead of learning them like other similar titles. Additionally, there are support gems that provide or modify the effects of the skills, which add another layer of personalization to your character.

It’s still early days into Path of Exile 2, but it is certainly very enjoyable and, more importantly, feels like it has enough unique things going for it to stand out from the current roster of action RPG titles out there. While challenging and a bit more deliberate, the gameplay feels satisfying, and the combination of skills and abilities shines the more you progress.

Of course, being an early access game, its fate remains to be seen as the months go by. Historically speaking, Grinding Gear Games has been one to listen to feedback and provide players with a deep and rewarding experience that looks to take this sequel to new heights. The player count has skyrocketed over the weekend, and if that trend continues, then the game is indeed primed for success.

Path of Exile 2 is now available in early access on Steam, PS5, and Xbox Series starting at $30. The full game will be free-to-play when it launches next year.