Fans of Path of Exile 2 are expressing their frustration over the introduction of new premium items while the game faces several pressing issues. The community’s backlash has led to a decline in Steam reviews, turning negative perceptions towards the new cosmetics. On Twitter, reactions to the microtransactions have been mixed, with some players praising new features but also voicing complaints about pricing.
The dissatisfaction stems from the timing of Grinding Gear Games’ latest cosmetic release, which many fans have mockingly dubbed “perfect timing.” Despite the community’s calls for the developer to focus on fixing existing game problems, the company has chosen to unveil a series of new items, including Skill Effects. The decline in player engagement started with the Dawn of the Hunt patch, which players felt slowed down the game.
This decline has been reflected in the game’s reviews, which quickly shifted from “Mixed” to “Mostly Negative” as players reacted to recent announcements. As the community’s frustration continues, the addition of new cosmetic items to the in-game shop has been met with criticism. The recent Steam post announcing these items garnered minimal likes, while it drew over 700 comments, most of which were negative.
In response to the backlash, Grinding Gear Games has pledged to address player concerns, but the effectiveness of these measures is still uncertain. On social media, the response to microtransactions has varied. While some players are tempted by new cosmetics, others are concerned about their pricing.
Grinding Gear Games has yet to fully respond to the ongoing criticism but reassured players of its commitment to improving the game. Notably, one positive change introduced is the feature allowing players to respec their Ascendancy classes. As Path of Exile 2 remains in early access, there is still potential for the game to regain its former engagement and enjoyment for players.
This phase is intended to fine-tune mechanics and address issues before the full launch, presenting an opportunity for the developer to reconnect with its community. Path of Exile 2 is a next-generation free-to-play Action RPG where players traverse the dangerous continent of Wraeclast, encounter diverse cultures, and face various forms of evil.