INTRODUCTION
Welcome, gaming enthusiasts! If you have a love for role-playing games with deep character customization, immersive world-building, and endlessly satisfying complexity, then you’ve landed in the right place. This beginner-friendly guide is tailored for those who are entirely new to the thrill of Path of Exile or returning after a long hiatus. This is arguably one of the most enticing free-to-play online action RPGs out there. So buckle up, and let’s embark on this incredibly rewarding journey of slaying monsters and exploring dark, mysterious dungeons.
WHAT IS PATH OF EXILE?
Imagine a game where you’re exiled to a dark, dangerous continent, armed with just your wits and your weapons. This is Path of Exile (PoE), a free-to-play online action RPG developed and published by Grinding Gear Games. Released in October 2013, this game takes root in the world of Wraeclast, a dark, hostile place filled with horrors and persistent threats.
Drawing inspiration from the Diablo series, PoE is focused on visceral action combat and rampant character customization. However, it offers a unique and more complex take on some typical RPG elements like class systems, item usage, and crafting. With a stark, unforgiving world, captivating narrative, and an unparalleled wealth of customization options, the game offers a compelling experience even for seasoned RPG veterans.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
In Path of Exile, you start by choosing a character class from seven core classes, each corresponding to one or two of the game’s three core attributes: Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence. These are the Marauder, Ranger, Witch, Duelist, Shadow, Templar, and Scion.
Once your character is chosen, you’re left stranded on the shores of Wraeclast, left to fend for yourself against the monstrous inhabitants of the land. To progress in the game, you’ll need to undertake quests, slay monsters, traverse treacherous terrains, and delve into dark dungeons.
One crucial aspect of PoE is the skill system, where skills (spells, attacks) are not class-locked but determined by gems slotted into your gear. Moreover, the Passive Skill Tree intricately connects all character classes, allowing for an astonishing depth of character growth and adaptation.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Here’s the best part: To venture into the world of Path of Exile, all you need is a PC, Xbox One, or PlayStation 4, and a stable internet connection. Just visit the official Path of Exile site, or respective console stores, create an account, download the game, and you’re good to go.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. PICK A GUIDE: As a beginner, the game’s complexity can be overwhelming. A build guide is an excellent place to start.
2. FOCUS ON LIFE AND RESISTANCES: Your character’s life and elemental resistances are crucial for surviving.
3. LEARN THE CURRENCIES: PoE features various orbs and scrolls serving as the game’s currency system, each with different uses.
4. JOIN A GUILD: Guilds can be an invaluable source of knowledge and in-game assistance.
5. SAVE YOUR ORBS: Currency items like Chaos Orbs and Exalted Orbs are valuable. Save them for later.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
For a deep dive into the game’s mechanics, the official Path of Exile forums and the Path of Exile subreddit (/r/pathofexile) are wonderful resources. You can find build guides, character progression tips, and discussions about every aspect of the game. Websites like PoE Vault or PoE Planner can help with designing your characters and planning your builds.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. LEAGUES: Irregular game world resets, each introducing new mechanics.
2. EXILES: Refers to the player characters in the game.
3. GEAR: Collectible items used to equip your character.
4. FLASK: Consumable items providing temporary bonuses or effects.
5. SOFTCORE AND HARDCORE: Softcore is the standard gaming mode, while Hardcore has the added difficulty of permanent character death.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Ready to step into Wraeclast? The best way to learn is to start playing. As a beginner, focus on understanding the game’s core mechanics, experimenting with classes and builds, and slowly delving deeper into the rich lore and complex mechanics. Enjoy your journey through Path of Exile, and remember that every death, every challenge overcome, is a step towards mastering this mesmerizing game. Good luck, new Exile!
