Complete Overhaul: Path of Exile 2’s Latest Patch Resets the Playing Field

April 4 marks an exciting moment for Path of Exile 2 enthusiasts. The game is set to receive its first major patch and economy reset since entering early access back in December 2024. This update signifies a major shift in the game’s content and mechanics. The Dawn of the Hunt patch notes, released in anticipation of the update, might present a challenging scenario for many dedicated players. This is primarily due to the new 0.2.0 patch, which drastically nerfs some of the strongest builds, items, and skills, effectively wiping the slate clean for players.

Amidst these sweeping changes, the introduction of the Huntress class and its Ascendancies promises to be popular, possibly due to the novelty and anticipation surrounding this hyped addition. This patch introduces five new Ascendancies, over 100 Unique Items and Support Gems, alongside a series of nerfs. While there’s a lot to digest, one thing is certain: everything will change once Dawn of the Hunt goes live.

It’s not uncommon for action RPGs to drastically shake up their gameplay with major updates, as seen with games like Diablo 4 and the lesser-known Last Epoch. Path of Exile 2’s Dawn of the Hunt overhaul will likely make the endgame loop feel fresh as players adapt to new builds or tweak old ones. While these changes may invigorate the game, they significantly alter the previously stagnant meta dominated by certain builds, Ascendancies, and gear.

The popular Archmage Spark build with the Stormweaver and the attribute-stacking Gemling Legionnaire builds have taken a significant hit. Mana-related attributes on gear and the passive tree have been severely nerfed, as have associated core items like the sought-after Ingenuity belt and Pillar of the Caged God. Moreover, Archmage has been weakened, reducing its damage output while increasing Mana costs for all non-channeling skills.

Even the much-favored Herald of Ice and Thunder combination has been toned down, affecting Monk and Mercenary builds that wield staves, and cutting back on ranged builds using skills like Lightning Arrow to clear screens. The update also reduces the Rarity of Items Found, cooling down attempts to amass rare loot and currency easily.

However, there’s a silver lining amidst these nerfs, reflecting Grinding Gear Games’ traditional approach from their earlier titles. Some Ascendancies stand to gain from the update. For instance, Warbringer, one of the lesser-utilized Ascendancies, is receiving buffs, which could provide new opportunities, especially with changes in Stun mechanics and other associated skills and items.

Additionally, the disabling of Path of Exile 2’s Grim Feast Gem could signal a shift away from Energy Shield builds, encouraging players to explore new strategies. It’s early to predict how the meta will shape up, given the uncertainties around spear skills. Nonetheless, players will likely have to navigate through an entirely new landscape, rife with potential for both success and failure.

Path of Exile 2 emerges as a next-generation action RPG from Grinding Gear Games, inviting players to explore the perilous world of Wraeclast. With 12 character classes, 240 Skill Gems, hundreds of equipment types, and a comprehensive endgame system, players can enjoy diverse cultural encounters and intense battles. The game supports couch co-op, cross-play, and cross-progression, ensuring you and your friends can team up seamlessly without missing a beat. Rated M for Mature, Path of Exile 2 features blood, gore, nudity, and violence, offering a richly immersive and challenging gaming experience.