When comparing the two versions of Path of Exile (POE), many players are curious about whether POE 2 currency is harder to obtain than POE 1 currency. Both games share similar mechanics, yet the economic system has evolved with the introduction of POE 2. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how the currency acquisition process has changed between POE 1 and POE 2 and explore the factors that influence the ease or difficulty of obtaining currency in the latest installment of this action-packed RPG.

The Evolution of POE Currency Systems

Path of Exile has always been known for its unique and player-driven economy. In POE 1, currency items like Chaos Orbs, Exalted Orbs, and Orbs of Alchemy were critical for trading, crafting, and progressing in the game. These items were earned through gameplay, such as completing quests, farming mobs, or trading with other players. POE's economy was designed to keep players engaged with the game by requiring them to constantly interact with other players to acquire the necessary currency for crafting or purchasing gear.

When POE 2 was announced, one of the questions on the minds of the community was how the currency system would evolve. Players expected that the introduction of a new act structure, skill trees, and a broader range of items would result in a change to how currency is earned and spent.

Currency in POE 2: What’s Different?

In POE 2, the currency system remains largely the same in terms of the types of currency available, such as Chaos Orbs, Exalted Orbs, and other crafting items. However, there are a few notable differences that may make acquiring POE 2 currency feel more challenging.

1. Increased Difficulty
   POE 2 introduces a more challenging difficulty curve, with tougher mobs and an expanded skill tree that offers deeper customization. This change means players may need to invest more time and effort to farm for the same amount of currency compared to POE 1. Players will need to be more strategic in how they farm, choose their builds, and engage with the game’s complex systems to earn the necessary currency.

2. Crafting Complexity
   The crafting system in POE 2 has also evolved, offering more customization options for players who wish to craft powerful gear. While this opens up exciting possibilities, it also means that acquiring currency for specific crafting materials or crafting rare items could be more time-consuming and require more resources. As crafting plays a significant role in POE 2, this can make the currency needed for crafting rarer items harder to come by compared to POE 1.

3. New Trading Mechanisms
   POE 2's expanded economy introduces new ways for players to trade items and currency. While the trading system remains a core part of the game, the introduction of new mechanics, such as changes to the item rarity system, may result in changes to how currency is valued. The overall result is that it may take more effort for players to obtain POE 2 currency through trading than in the earlier game.

4. Shift in Game Design Focus
   POE 2's design has placed a heavier emphasis on exploration and character progression, which means less focus on currency farming early in the game. While POE 1 had a strong emphasis on crafting and trading right from the beginning, POE 2 offers more opportunities for players to build and progress their characters before needing a significant amount of currency for crafting or trading.

Is POE 2 Currency Really Harder to Obtain?

In conclusion, while the basic principles behind the acquisition of POE 2 currency remain similar to POE 1, the changes in difficulty, crafting, and trading dynamics mean that obtaining currency in POE 2 can feel more challenging. Players may need to spend more time and effort to earn the same amount of currency, especially if they aim to progress through the game’s more difficult content or craft rare and powerful items.

Ultimately, whether POE 2 currency is harder to obtain than POE 1 depends on how players approach the game and the strategies they employ for farming and trading. The deeper complexity and increased difficulty in POE 2 may lead to a more rewarding experience for those who are willing to invest the necessary time and effort, but it could also feel like a steeper challenge for players accustomed to the more accessible currency farming in POE 1.