Path of Exile 2's Revolutionary Multiplayer May Outshine Diablo 4's

Highlights

Anticipation is high among players for Path of Exile 2, the follow-up to the original free-to-play ARPG. This highly anticipated game promises new classes and a range of quality-of-life improvements that distinguish it from other titles in the genre.

In contrast to the controversy surrounding Diablo 4, Path of Exile has experienced a steady and gradual growth, transforming it into a highly anticipated ARPG series.

With its enduring popularity and the added advantage of a six-player co-op feature, Path of Exile has managed to maintain a sizable playerbase. Furthermore, the game will receive continuous support and new updates even after the launch of Path of Exile 2.

Path of Exile 2, the successor to the original free-to-play ARPG, has been announced and is highly anticipated by hundreds of thousands of players for its closed beta in 2024. At ExileCon 2023, a comprehensive showcase revealed that Path of Exile 2 will introduce new classes and quality-of-life improvements that are unprecedented in the genre. With the potential to further establish itself in the ARPG genre, there is one aspect of the series that sets it apart.

In contrast to the franchise's legacy and the expectations of many passionate fans, Diablo 4 has garnered controversy with its shift to a full live-service model. While the earlier entries in the series were the pioneers of the ARPG genre, the steady growth of Path of Exile has elevated it to a level where it can hold its own convention. The inclusion of co-op gameplay, a core element of ARPGs, is an area where Path of Exile 2 has the opportunity to truly shine among its competitors.

The First Path of Exile Continues to Set a Precedent

Path of Exile has maintained a large playerbase for almost a decade, with its sequel already being compared to the latest Diablo by some fans. Renowned for its extensive skill system and challenging boss mechanics, this free-to-play game from Grinding Gear Games has the advantage of a six-player co-op, surpassing Diablo's limit of four players. While Path of Exile 2 will introduce new class options, the first entry already offers diverse party sizes.

Although Path of Exile is being supported leading up to the sequel's release, it will continue to receive full support and updates thereafter. In a unique approach for a live service game, the developer is committed to releasing expansions for both games simultaneously and ensuring that microtransactions can be carried over between the two. In a market where in-game purchases are increasingly common in fully priced titles, free-to-play games like Path of Exile 2 are more appealing for gathering a large group of friends for co-op and expanding the ARPG market in general.

Path of Exile 2's Hype Reflects Diablo 4's Status in the ARPG Genre

The rushed development of Diablo 4 has sparked rumors that the game didn't reach its full potential, while its always-online status has caused controversy. Despite its age and value, Path of Exile has been favorably compared to it by players, and the option to play with two additional friends makes this decision even more understandable. Grinding Gear Games, the developer, has weighed in on the reception of Blizzard's game, highlighting Diablo 4's focus on MMO-like mechanics.

Although Diablo 4 is currently facing issues that recent hot-fix patches and developer feedback are addressing, it is common for ARPG games to improve over time with ongoing updates. The positive reception of features like the increased number of players participating in battles, as well as the continuous support for the original Path of Exile, has sparked discussions regarding the series' future growth. Path of Exile 2 is introducing more classes than ever before, and the ability to have up to six players join forces will surely showcase the series' incredible build diversity when it's released next year.