Path of Exile 2 Dev Reveals Urgent Updates Amid 'Mostly Negative' Steam Reviews

Path of Exile 2 developer Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has responded to the community's strong backlash against the Dawn of the Hunt update by implementing further emergency changes. The update, released earlier this month, introduced the new Huntress class, five ascension classes, and numerous new unique items and crafting options. However, it also brought significant gameplay nerfs that led to a flood of negative reviews on Steam, dropping the game's rating to 'mostly negative.'

The Dawn of the Hunt expansion aimed to add depth to the game with new mechanics and content. However, players felt that the update drastically slowed down the gameplay, making the experience feel like a "total slog." Complaints centered around extended boss fights, ineffective skills, and overall reduced reward rates, which led to widespread dissatisfaction within the community.

In response, GGG has released patch notes for update 0.2.0e, scheduled for deployment on April 11, addressing many of the community's concerns. Here are the key changes:

Monster Speed Changes

• Removed interrupt events from many human monsters to prevent relentless attacks.
• Adjusted the Haste Aura modifier to not affect already fast monsters.
• Implemented specific changes for monsters in Acts 1, 2, and 3 to reduce their speed and density, making encounters more manageable.

Boss Changes

• Reduced the intensity of Chaos Rains in the Viper Napuatzi fight.
• Made adjustments to Uxmal's behavior to make the fight less frustrating.
• Improved visibility in Xyclucian's arena by removing ground foliage.

Player Minion Changes

• Adjusted minion revive timers to prevent long waits when multiple minions die.
• Allowed for the reuse of Bind Spectre and Tame Beast gems upon disenchantment.
• Improved the movement of tamed beasts to navigate through smaller gaps.

Other Player Balance

• Expanded the use of Rally support to any melee attack.
• Fixed issues with Glory consumption and Ritualist's Blood Boils effect.

Crafting Changes

• Added new mods to runes for caster weapons.
• Introduced a Blank rune in Renly's shop for additional crafting flexibility.

Performance Improvements

• Optimized ground foliage to enhance game performance.

0.2.0E Deployment Timeline

• The patch will be deployed at around 10AM NZT, with additional changes planned for post-weekend.

Charm Changes

• Introduced charm slots on belts based on area level, with options to reroll using Divine Orbs.
• Fixed issues with charm activation and enhanced the power of charm mods.

Stash Tab Affinities

• Added new categories for socketables, fragments, breach, expedition, and ritual items.
• Allowed charms to be stored in the Flask stash tab.

Atlas Bookmarks

• Implemented a system to bookmark locations on the atlas for easier navigation.

These changes aim to address the core issues raised by the community, particularly the pacing of the game and the effectiveness of player skills and rewards. GGG's efforts to improve Path of Exile 2 are ongoing, with further updates planned to refine the gameplay experience. Whether these adjustments will be enough to turn the tide of negative sentiment remains to be seen, but the developer's proactive approach to addressing player feedback is a step in the right direction.