Path of Exile 2’s Early Access Approach Sparks Debate, Yet Promises to Reward Devoted Players

If you’re even slightly familiar with Path of Exile, odds are you’ve heard tales of its legendary, massive passive skill tree. Yet, what stands out more than this intricate web of abilities is the praise from its community: it’s one of those rare free-to-play games that doesn’t exploit its players.

Path of Exile is frequently highlighted as a shining example of how to implement free-to-play without compromising the essence of the game. It offers players opportunities to buy cosmetics and extra features without hindering the main experience.

Despite this commendable approach, you might find yourself blinking twice when you see the prices for Path of Exile 2’s supporter packs. They start reasonably at $30 but can climb to a staggering $480! Sure, some of these packs include physical items, but even if you strip those away, the digital remains command a hefty price compared to typical free-to-play game offerings.

Of course, the perceived value of these bundles is subjective, as determined by Grinding Gear Games. They wouldn’t set such prices if they weren’t confident in their sales—a confidence stemming from years of refining monetization strategies with the original Path of Exile. Some of its bundles also carry a hefty price tag, clearly catering to a willing audience.

Here’s an interesting tidbit you might have missed: Grinding Gear Games is giving back to its committed players. Any player who’s spent $480 or more on Path of Exile microtransactions will receive early access to the sequel. Sure, that number isn’t small, but considering the game has been around for a full decade, many avid fans have likely reached that spending threshold quite organically. When you break it down, it’s just $48 a year or a modest $4 a month, which isn’t much in the grand scheme of things.

At first glance, this might not seem like the most enticing offer, but it’s a thoughtful nod to those who’ve already supported the game financially. With Path of Exile’s original version remaining available, these players can still enjoy their past purchases while also having a chance to dive into the new game without shelling out extra cash upfront. It’s a reward for loyal players and a strategic move to retain their engagement with Grinding Gear Games. It’s a win-win situation.

Ultimately, this is a savvy move by GGG that bolsters its reputation for fair free-to-play practices. Over the years, examining GGG’s monetization choices reveals many moments where they made decisions that clearly weren’t a necessity, which is exactly where GGG wants to establish itself.

It’s a lesson for many developers chasing profits: prioritize your players, and the profits will follow.