Path of Exile 2 Guide, 5 Tips & Tricks for Beginner

With the early access launch of Path of Exile 2 on the horizon, diving into this complex action RPG can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with its unique mechanics. To help ease you into the game and give you a smoother start, here are five essential tips that can make your early experience much more enjoyable and set you up for long-term success. These insights cover everything from combat efficiency to build planning, so let’s get started!

Path of Exile 2 Guide Tips & Tricks

1. Prioritize Life Regeneration and Healing

In Path of Exile 2, combat often involves prolonged boss fights that can last several minutes. These battles are challenging, especially early on when resources are scarce. Life regeneration is a valuable attribute you should prioritize early in the game. Even 1-2% life regeneration per second can significantly impact your survivability, especially for melee classes like the Warrior.

Other forms of healing, such as “damage taken recouped as life” or extra flask charges found in the Ranger’s passive skill tree, can also provide great utility. Healing options might not seem critical during the first few encounters, but they’ll prove invaluable as you progress and face tougher challenges.

2. Build Synergistic Combos

Path of Exile 2 encourages players to use multiple skills in combination rather than relying on a single “spammy” ability. When creating your build, focus on skills that complement one another. For instance, the Monk’s “Killing Palm” generates power charges that empower follow-up attacks like “Falling Thunder,” making it possible to clear entire packs of enemies efficiently.

Experiment with synergistic effects, such as combining ailments (like freezing or shocking enemies) or alternating cooldown-based skills with spammable attacks. Understanding and utilizing these combos early on will enhance your effectiveness and help you adapt to the game’s dynamic combat system.

3. Sell and Gamble Items Early

In the early game, consistently upgrading your equipment is key to maintaining a steady power curve. Collect everything you find and sell items you don’t need to vendors in exchange for gold. This currency can be used to purchase new gear or gamble for potentially powerful upgrades, particularly weapons. For classes like the Mercenary, prioritizing a better crossbow through gambling can provide a significant damage boost.

When you find crafting currencies, such as Transmutation or Regal Orbs, don’t hoard them. Use them to upgrade or enhance critical gear, especially your weapon, as it has the most noticeable impact on your performance. Other slots, like armor or jewelry, can wait until later in the game when more options are available.

4. Choose Your Ascendancy Wisely

Ascendancies, or subclasses, are a pivotal feature in Path of Exile 2, allowing you to specialize your build in Act 2. However, this choice is permanent, so take the time to review the nodes and benefits offered by each subclass.

While many ascendancies are well-balanced, your selection should align with your preferred playstyle and build goals. For example, a Monk might choose an ascendancy that boosts stun damage and agility, while a Sorcerer may opt for improved elemental damage. Don’t overthink the “meta” too much; instead, focus on what fits your current strategy and preferences.

5. Complete Side Content

Side quests and optional bosses are abundant in Path of Exile 2, and they offer invaluable rewards such as permanent skill points, resistance boosts, and additional loot. These bonuses can make a significant difference in your power level, especially during tougher sections of the campaign.

Side content not only strengthens your character but also provides more opportunities to explore the world, earn experience points, and refine your build. Skipping these quests might save time in the short term, but completing them will make the rest of the game smoother and more enjoyable.

Starting Path of Exile 2 can be daunting, but following these tips will set you on the right path. Prioritize healing, experiment with synergistic skills, and upgrade your gear consistently to maintain a competitive edge. Choosing the right ascendancy and completing side quests will further enhance your journey through the campaign. This is just the beginning—Path of Exile 2 is full of depth, and these foundational strategies will help you navigate its challenges with confidence.