While Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) has seen great success in early access, it’s challenging to declare it a clear improvement—or a step backward—compared to its predecessor. The reason for this is simple: the two games are fundamentally different in many respects, including core gameplay mechanics. One of the most notable differences is the power level of builds. PoE 2’s builds feel comparatively less powerful, likely due to Grinding Gear Games (GGG) aiming for a more balanced experience, especially after it was confirmed that PoE 2 would be a standalone sequel. In contrast, the first game had years of power creep, which naturally elevated the strength of builds over time.
While the new Gem system in Path of Exile 2 is arguably an improvement over the armor socket system in PoE, it also comes with its own set of challenges and limitations.
Path of Exile 2’s Gem System: A Shift from the Familiar
In Path of Exile, Gems could be easily obtained from vendors, but in PoE 2, players are required to either find Uncut Gems through drops or trade with other players to acquire the Gems they need. This introduces a new level of complexity to the Gem system in PoE 2.
Gems in PoE 2 are split into three categories: Active Skill Gems, Support Gems, and Spirit Gems. Active Skill Gems are the core of all builds, providing the attacks and spells necessary to defeat enemies. Support Gems enhance the capabilities of Active Skill Gems, making them more powerful in various ways. Spirit Gems, on the other hand, require players to reserve Spirit, granting permanent buffs to their character. This approach to Gems in PoE 2 is a departure from the first game, bringing both advantages and drawbacks.
History Repeating Itself: Gems and Sockets
One of the significant differences between Path of Exile and PoE 2 is how Gems interact with sockets. In PoE 2, Gems come with built-in sockets for Support Gems, whereas in the first game, players needed to rely on armor sockets to link Gems with Support Gems. While this change helps alleviate pressure on itemization by giving Gems their own dedicated sockets, it also introduces new challenges.
For instance, players no longer need to worry about getting the perfect five-link or six-link items for their Gems. However, the burden has now shifted to the Gems themselves. Players must use Jeweller’s Orbs to add more sockets to their Gems, and these Orbs are rare drops, making it more challenging to customize Gems as players progress through the game.
Why Jeweller’s Orbs Are a Double-Edged Sword
In Path of Exile 2, the only way to add more sockets to Gems beyond the initial two is by using Lesser, Greater, or Perfect Jeweller’s Orbs. These Orbs are not only rare drops but also come with a hefty price tag if purchased from other players. For example, a Lesser Jeweller’s Orb may sell for one Exalted Orb, while a Greater Jeweller’s Orb could cost one Divine Orb.
As it stands, PoE 2’s economy has not changed much in this regard. Players still need valuable items to make their builds work, and the cost of Jeweller’s Orbs makes it prohibitive for many players to experiment with different builds poe2 currency sale. A single Divine Orb is currently valued at around 69 Exalted Orbs on PoE 2’s official trade website, making Greater Jeweller’s Orbs exponentially more expensive than their Lesser counterparts.
Additionally, the high cost and rarity of these Orbs can make it difficult for players to switch skills or builds, as the expense of doing so is too great for many. Many of the best Skill Gems, Support Gems, and Spirit Gems are only unlocked during the Cruel difficulty, meaning players must wait until after Act 3 to access these essential tools for their builds. This creates a bottleneck for players, particularly those just starting the game or those who want to experiment in the early game.
As read : Path of Exile 2: How to Obtain the Greater Jeweller’s Orb
Shifting the Pressure from Items to Gems
With Path of Exile 2, the pressure has shifted from itemization to the Gems themselves. In the past, acquiring the perfect gear with the right number of sockets was essential for creating a powerful build. In PoE 2, however, the pressure is placed on acquiring the right Gems and ensuring they have enough sockets to be effective.
This shift can be advantageous in some respects, as it reduces the reliance on armor sockets for itemization. In PoE 2, armor sockets are obtained with Artificer’s Orbs, which can lower the overall cost of gearing up. However, the heavy reliance on Jeweller’s Orbs to modify Gems means that itemization is still an issue for players, especially for newcomers and veterans alike.
Players aiming to succeed in the endgame will likely need at least one or two five-linked Gems, a challenging goal given the cost and scarcity of Jeweller’s Orbs. This approach to Gem and socket management, while innovative, still leaves many players struggling with limited options for experimentation and build optimization.
The Bottom Line
While Path of Exile 2 introduces a more dynamic and refined Gem system, it also presents challenges in terms of accessibility and affordability. The shift from item-based socket management to Gem-based customization adds complexity but also creates a sense of pressure on players to obtain the right Orbs and Gems, particularly for endgame content. As the game progresses through early access, it will be interesting to see whether these issues are addressed or if they remain as inherent challenges to the game’s progression.
For those looking to navigate the complexities of PoE 2, a reliable resource for trading items, currency, and Jeweller’s Orbs is U4GM. Whether you’re looking to get the perfect Jeweller’s Orbs for your Gems or need guidance on trading, U4GM offers a safe and efficient platform to help you get the resources you need to build the ultimate character in Path of Exile 2.