What Type of Game is Path of Exile? A Comprehensive Guide to This Dark Fantasy Action RPG
If you’re a fan of action-packed RPG games, then you’ve likely come across Path of Exile at some point. With its dark fantasy setting, complex world-building, and endless replayability, this game has won over a legion of fans since its release in 2013. But what exactly is Path of Exile? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various elements that make up this epic game and help you understand what type of game it really is.
The Basics of Path of Exile
Before we dive in, let’s start with the basics. First and foremost, Path of Exile is an action role-playing game, or ARPG for short. This means that you’ll be controlling a character and embarking on a journey through a vast and dangerous world, battling enemies, collecting loot, and leveling up your skills as you progress. Along the way, you’ll encounter a range of different characters, factions, and creatures, each with their own unique abilities and motivations.
The Story of Path of Exile
While Path of Exile may be an ARPG at heart, it also has a rich and complex storyline that’s worth exploring. Set in the dark and foreboding land of Wraeclast, the game puts you in the shoes of an exiled individual who has been sent to the island as punishment for their crimes. From there, you must navigate the strange and dangerous world of Wraeclast, uncovering its many secrets and battling the many threats that lurk within.
The Gameplay of Path of Exile
When it comes to gameplay, Path of Exile is all about customization and choice. You’ll be able to create your own unique character, choosing from one of seven different classes and a wide range of skills, abilities, and passive talents. As you progress through the game, you’ll collect loot from fallen enemies and complete quests, using these resources to improve your character’s equipment and stats.
The Elements that Define Path of Exile
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at some of the key elements that make Path of Exile such a unique and engaging game.
The Dark Fantasy Setting
One of the first things that many players notice about Path of Exile is its dark and atmospheric setting. From the abandoned ruins of ancient civilizations to the eerie forests filled with supernatural creatures, the world of Wraeclast is a place that’s not for the faint of heart. Fans of gothic horror and Lovecraftian themes will find a lot to love here, as the game’s narrative is full of grim and unsettling events that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Skill Tree
Another defining feature of Path of Exile is its skill tree. This massive, sprawling network of nodes represents all of the different skills, abilities, and passive talents that your character can acquire over the course of the game. With over 1,000 different nodes to choose from, the skill tree offers an incredible amount of depth and customization, allowing you to create a character that’s completely unique to your playstyle.
The Item System
Like many other ARPGs, Path of Exile puts a lot of emphasis on loot and gear. However, what sets this game apart is its item system, which is incredibly complex and nuanced. Instead of simply finding a sword or a shield and equipping it, you’ll need to carefully manage your inventory and customize your items using a range of different orbs and crafting materials. This means that each piece of gear you find has the potential to be a significant upgrade, making item hunting a fun and rewarding part of the game.
The Endgame Content
Finally, we can’t talk about Path of Exile without mentioning its endgame content. Once you’ve completed the main story and reached a certain level, you’ll unlock a range of different activities and challenges to take on. These include the Trials of Ascendancy, which will test your skills and reflexes, and the vast, procedurally generated maps of the Atlas of Worlds. For players looking for a true challenge, Path of Exile also offers a number of different hardcore modes, where death is permanent and mistakes can cost you everything.
Frequently Asked Questions About Path of Exile
Q: Is Path of Exile a free-to-play game?
Yes, Path of Exile is completely free to play. However, the game does include optional microtransactions that allow you to purchase cosmetic items or additional stash space.
Q: Can you play Path of Exile co-op with friends?
Yes, Path of Exile supports multiplayer co-op for up to six players. You can create private parties or join public games to explore the world together and take on challenges as a team.
Q: Is Path of Exile beginner-friendly?
While Path of Exile can be a bit overwhelming at first, the game includes a wealth of tutorials and resources to help new players get started. Additionally, the community is generally very helpful and supportive, making it easy to find advice and guidance if you’re having trouble.
Conclusion
So, what type of game is Path of Exile, exactly? At its core, it’s an action-packed ARPG set in a dark and atmospheric world, full of dangerous enemies and challenging content. However, it’s also a game that’s defined by its complexity and choice, offering an incredible amount of customization and depth. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the genre or just looking for something new to try, Path of Exile is definitely worth your time.