Path of Exile 2 is poised to introduce a significant shake-up to its itemization and currency systems. While the original Path of Exile relies heavily on a complex web of tradable currencies like Exalted Orbs and Chaos Orbs, used for crafting and trading, POE 2 currency is taking a different path. The new game places a heavy emphasis on item acquisition through exploration and defeating challenging content, with Relics being a central component of this shift. The question then becomes: can this new focus on Relics, and the gameplay loop surrounding them, truly compete with the established methods of accumulating wealth through traditional currency farming?
The traditional POE currency system revolves around efficient farming strategies, manipulating markets, and understanding the intricate relationships between different currency types. Players often dedicate hours to specific zones or bosses, maximizing their currency drops per hour. This system, while effective for many, can also feel repetitive and detached from the core gameplay experience of character building and combat.
Relics in POE 2 offer a potentially more engaging and integrated approach to item acquisition. These powerful items are found by exploring dangerous areas, completing challenging encounters, and overcoming difficult bosses. The act of finding and identifying a valuable Relic becomes a reward in itself, providing a sense of accomplishment that goes beyond simply accumulating currency. The value of Relics is determined by their unique properties and potential to enhance a character's build, creating a direct connection between gameplay and character progression.
However, several factors will determine whether Relic hunting can truly compete with traditional POE 2 currency methods. The drop rate of valuable Relics needs to be balanced carefully. If Relics are too rare, players may feel discouraged and revert to more reliable currency farming methods. Conversely, if Relics are too common, their value will plummet, undermining the entire system.
Furthermore, the tradeability of Relics will play a crucial role. If Relics are easily traded, a market will likely emerge, mirroring the existing currency market. This could lead to players optimizing their gameplay for Relic drops, essentially turning Relic hunting into another form of currency farming. If Relics are account-bound or have limited tradeability, it could encourage players to engage with the Relic system more directly, experimenting with different builds and playstyles to maximize their effectiveness.
Finally, the crafting system in POE 2 will influence the relative importance of Relics and traditional currency. If crafting relies heavily on traditional currency, players will still need to engage with currency farming to acquire the necessary materials. However, if crafting is more focused on item modification and Relic enhancement, the demand for traditional currency may decrease.
In conclusion, the success of Relic hunting as a viable alternative to traditional POE 2 currency methods hinges on a delicate balance. Grinding Gear Games must carefully consider the drop rates, tradeability, and integration with crafting to ensure that Relic hunting offers a rewarding and engaging experience that can compete with the established currency farming strategies. Only time will tell if Relics can truly reshape the economy of Path of Exile 2, offering a fresh and exciting approach to item acquisition and character progression.