Last Epoch vs Path of Exile 2: Which is Better?

Path of Exile 2 ^[1] tackles the MMORPG and Action RPG genre in a way few games have done before. By giving players complete freedom over how they want to tackle the game, the developers ensure every playthrough of every player is personalized and completely different. However, another game did something similar some months back called Last Epoch.

Last Epoch ^[2] was a breakthrough success in the Action RPG genre. Giving players everything they asked for just some time after Diablo 4 disappointed fans, players worldwide were jumping into it even if it wasn’t an established series. However, the game has fallen off since then and we want to tackle why.

Here is everything players need to know about the Last Epoch when stacked against Path of Exile 2. This includes accessibility, the community, and how much their respective developers support each game. If you already jumped ship and started playing Path of Exile 2, you can always check out Eloking’s Path of Exile 2 marketplace to see if any currency or item on sale catches your eye.

Accessibility and Complexity:

Although Path of Exile 2 is an improvement over its predecessor in accessibility, it’s still an incredibly complex game. It has an intricate skill tree, item system, and crafting systems, which is overwhelming for beginners. The game caters to ARPG enthusiasts who love complex mechanics, intricate builds, and difficult endgame content. This complexity can throw off newcomers trying to enter the game.

On the other hand, Last Epoch is more streamlined and newcomer-friendly, making it a better option for players who are new to ARPGs. Its class system and mechanics are easier to understand, so it’s a less demanding experience.

The game has a more approachable design that is inviting for beginners and veterans who like a simpler experience. Last Epoch gives players good character progression and build customization without overwhelming the player.

The difference in complexity is a factor for players who consider titles based on whether they want to spend time understanding the game's intricacies or want a casual experience. It’s important to note that Path of Exile 2 may be extremely complex, 

Graphics:

Path of Exile 2 has the advantage when it comes to graphics. Numerous players agree that even though last Epoch’s visuals are improving, it doesn’t have the polish and quality of its competitor. When players discuss the disadvantages of Last Epoch, animations and fidelity are the first things they mention. 

The good side to a lower fidelity title is that it’s not demanding to run. For example, Last Epoch’s official system requirements have listed the GTX 660 Ti, a budget GPU from 2012, as its minimum requirement. Path of Exile 2’s system requirements list the 960, a GPU that was released 3 years later. However, neither game is too demanding, and most players with low-spec devices will likely be able to run it.

Crafting Systems:

Last Epoch's crafting system provides players more control over item modification. It’s simpler and more predictable than Path of Exile 2’s system, letting players craft precise items and alterations for their builds while reducing the reliance on trading.

Path of Exile 2 has an easier crafting system than its predecessor, but it’s still complex and deep because it involves numerous currency items and random outcomes. While it allows players to create powerful items useful for their builds, it has a steep learning curve that might take them a long time to master. 

Community and Support:

Path of Exile 2 has a huge and more established community, allowing fans to discuss numerous things and share information like resources, guides, and builds. Last Epoch’s community isn’t as big, but it’s still passionate about the game and provides a welcoming experience for newcomers. 

To put things into perspective, Path of Exile 2 is currently in its early access phase. This means major changes are to be expected over the next few months, and the game is technically incomplete. Additionally, and this is the most important point, it costs money for players to access the game currently. Path of Exile 2 is intended to be a free-to-play game and it’ll be just that when the full game comes out, though players must pay up to $30 to get into the early access.

On the other hand, Last Epoch costs money. While it doesn’t cost as much as a full AAA game, it’s still mandatory real-world money going out of your pockets. The fact that players are willing to jump into Path of Exile 2 and pay money instead of waiting a couple of months to access it for free speaks volumes about the love the game’s community has for it. Not to mention, it’s still successful enough to give multiple games a run for their money.

Endgame content

One of the best parts about Path of Exile 2 is its extensive and deep endgame experience. During that phase, players can do many activities, from mapping and delving to fighting against pinnacle bosses. This content provides a near-endless gaming experience and satisfies players who love theory-crafting and pushing their builds to the limit.

Last Epoch’s endgame gives players a satisfying loop through empowered monoliths, but it’s still considered less expansive. Gamers find the endgame phase of Last Epoch repetitive due to its low variety compared to Path of Exile 2. In a sense, players can say that Last Epoch is meant to be a game that has a definitive conclusion instead of something players can sink countless hours into like Path of Exile 2.

One problem with Path of Exile 2’s extensive endgame is it can lead to burnout for some players because of the content and the constant need to optimize builds. Last Epoch’s smaller endgame and easier crafting system make it a good alternative for players who find the competitor’s grind overwhelming.

The choice here depends on how much the player expects to spend time on the endgame. Gamers who want a long-term, always-changing endgame experience prefer Path of Exile 2’s system. Those who want a smaller and less overwhelming endgame experience or might quit after making it to the endgame will find Last Epoch the better choice.

So which one is better?

There is no definite answer because both titles have different strengths and weaknesses and target separate audiences. Last Epoch excels in accessibility, crafting, and a less demanding gameplay experience, making it great for newcomers or players with a weaker system.

Path of Exile 2 has a deeper crafting system, more endgame depth, visual fidelity, and complex systems, which makes it an incredible choice for ARPG enthusiasts who plan on sticking with the game for a long time. On the other hand, those who want a complete experience instead of having to wait for an unknown amount of time should hop on Last Epoch for now until Path of Exile 2’s complete version comes out.

FAQs

Who developed Last Epoch?

Last Epoch, which came out on February 21, 2024, was developed by Eleventh Hour Games. The game is set in the world of Eterra across several timelines, adding a unique gameplay mechanic into the mix. However, it’s important to note that the developer studio hasn’t developed anything else and is an all-remote indie game development studio.

On the other hand, Path of Exile 2 is developed by Grinding Gear Games. The studio worked on the first Path of Exile which was a massive success in its own right, and hasn’t worked on anything else. This prior experience in the ARPG genre allows the developing studio to excel in implementing complex themes like multiple currencies and the possibility to use different builds.

References

1. [1] "Official PoE 2 website". pathofexile2.com. Retrieved January 02, 2025
2. [2] "Last Epoch website". lastepoch.com. Retrieved January 02, 2025