On April 4, Path of Exile 2 will receive its first major update, titled Dawn of The Hunt. Available in Early Access, the expansion introduces a new class, new endgame challenges, unique items, and enhancements to the equipment crafting system.
New Class: The Huntress
The update’s main highlight is the introduction of the Huntress, a warrior specializing in spears and hybrid close- and long-range combat.
Her playstyle allows for quick attacks, strategic defenses, and extended combos with elemental strikes. One of her standout abilities is Hit and Run, which lets her leap backward, gain a Frenzy charge, and then hurl her spear with increased power.
New Ascendancy Classes
Alongside the Huntress, five new Ascendancy Classes have been added to the game, offering greater character-building variety:
- Ritualist (Huntress) – Uses sacrifices and curses to annihilate enemies.
- Amazon (Huntress) – Combines precision and elemental fury in her attacks.
- Lich (Witch) – Controls chaos and summons the dead to fight alongside her.
- The Smith of Kitava (Warrior) – A master at forging devastating weapons.
- Tactician (Mercenary) – Specializes in tactical combat and brutal efficiency.
New Skills and Support Gems
The update also brings over 20 new spear skills, along with two brand-new abilities:
- Raise Spectre – Captures and summons the souls of nearly any monster in the game.
- Rhoa Mount – Summons a mount for mobility and combat, though taking damage poses risks.
New support gems have also been added, enabling effects such as explosive crystals upon applying bleed and slowdown traps on the battlefield.
Expanded Item and Crafting System
Over 100 new unique items have been introduced, focusing on mid and endgame progression. The crafting system has been expanded with new tools, including:
- New Runes – Over 20 new runes with multiple tiers for powerful upgrades.
- Specialized Modifications – Additional options for customizing equipment.
New Enemies and Endgame Challenges
The arrival of the Azmeri Spirit adds a new layer to gameplay. These wandering spirits empower monsters they come into contact with, making battles even more challenging.
Additionally, eight new maps have been introduced, each featuring unique challenges. Notable additions include:
- Fractured Lake – Players face mirrored versions of rare monsters.
- Ezomyte Forests – Filled with energized rune stones that alter combat dynamics.
Unique Vaults and Corrupted Essences
Four new vaults have been added, featuring exclusive mechanics and valuable rewards:
- Ogham’s Legacy – A monster revives after every defeat, growing stronger each time.
- Ixchel’s Torment – Corrupted guardians protect a valuable artifact.
Essences have also been enhanced with four new Corrupted Essences: Hysteria, Delirium, Horror, and Insanity, offering new crafting possibilities.
Endgame Overhaul
The endgame system has been adjusted to reduce unnecessary complexity and make mechanics more accessible. Towers have been streamlined and now have a greater impact, while Boards now influence a larger number of areas.
Release and Player Recommendations
Dawn of The Hunt update will be available starting April 4 and can be accessed by both new players and those with existing Early Access characters.
However, to fully experience the new league economy and content, starting a fresh journey is recommended.
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