Is POE 2 the MOST ADDICTIVE ARPG of 2024?
0*Path of Exile 2 First-Time Player Experience: POE 2 witch Playthrough*
If you're stepping into Path of Exile 2 as a first-time player, and you're particularly curious about the Monk archetype, here's what you can expect as you begin your journey:
*1. Getting Started:*
*Introduction to POE 2:* Path of Exile 2 is a massive sequel to *Path of Exile 1*, with updated graphics, a new story, and additional gameplay mechanics. If you've never played POE 1, there's a lot to digest, but if you're a seasoned vet, the new systems might feel like a fresh take on everything you loved about the original game.
*Monk Class Overview:* While POE doesn't have an official "Monk" class, the equivalent class might be something like the *Ascendant* (which has a lot of flexibility), or *Marauder* and *Templar* for more brawler-style combat, or the *Scion* for a hybrid approach. The Monk archetype would likely focus on unarmed combat, high mobility, and energy-based abilities.
*2. Early Experience:*
*Combat & Movement:* Expect fast-paced, fluid combat. If you choose a Monk-like character, your skillset will likely involve swift strikes, dodging, and relying on combos or energy-based abilities. Expect to feel very dynamic on the battlefield, darting around enemies and using special skills to disrupt foes.
*Skill Gems:* Much of POE’s combat revolves around equipping *skill gems* that you socket into your equipment. For the Monk, you’d likely focus on gems that complement your melee and defensive capabilities, such as *Cyclone**, **Dashing Strike**, or even **Flurry* for rapid attacks.
*Resource Management:* POE 2 will introduce additional resource mechanics or tweak existing ones. As a Monk-like character, managing your resources (whether it’s energy, charges, or something else) will be key to maximizing your effectiveness.
Think about the *Energy Shield* system or **Mana Management**—key for casting abilities and sustaining your offensive.
*3. Navigating POE 2's New Systems:*
*New Campaign & Lore:* POE 2 introduces a brand new story campaign set in a darker world, filled with complex characters and lore. Expect a significant departure from POE 1's story, but with a similarly grim atmosphere and complex world-building.
*Skill Tree & Passive Skills:* One of POE’s defining features is its massive *Passive Skill Tree**. As a Monk archetype, you’ll likely be choosing nodes that enhance your physical damage, attack speed, or mobility, while also weaving in survivability traits like **Evasion* or **Energy Shield**. The complexity of the tree is overwhelming at first, but as you progress, it becomes second nature.
*Ascendancy:* At level 33, you unlock the *Ascendancy* system, which provides a further layer of specialization. A Monk-like character would probably lean into Ascendancy options that further bolster their combat prowess, perhaps by focusing on specific skills or enhancing damage output when close to enemies.
*4. Learning Curve:*
*Complexity:* Path of Exile has a steep learning curve, and Path of Exile 2 seems to follow that tradition. As a new player, you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices at the start—gems, items, and passive skills. Don't worry, though! The game encourages experimentation. Try different skills and builds to see what resonates with your preferred playstyle.
*Death & Difficulty:* Expect to die a lot in the early stages, especially if you're new to the game’s mechanics or the Monk-style gameplay. It's part of the learning experience. POE 2 will continue the tradition of punishing difficulty spikes, but you'll also feel incredibly rewarded when you finally conquer tough bosses.
*5. Endgame & Progression:*
*Endgame Mechanics:* POE 2 introduces deeper endgame mechanics, such as *endgame maps* and **boss fights**. Your Monk character will likely focus on high mobility and burst damage to navigate endgame content. Expect fights that test your ability to avoid damage while maximizing your own output.
*Customization & Build Variety:* One of the best aspects of POE is the vast customization. As you progress, you’ll unlock ways to specialize and refine your Monk-like build to suit your preferences, whether that means focusing on a specific type of melee combat or enhancing your ability to endure tough battles.
The Monk's high mobility and damage-focused playstyle make it one of the most satisfying ways to engage with *Path of Exile 2*—but don’t be surprised if you find yourself dying a few times along the way. That’s just part of the journey in the world of *Path of Exile*.