Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), the highly anticipated sequel to Grinding Gear Games' beloved ARPG (Action Role-Playing Game), introduces a brand new storyline, game mechanics, and expansive world for players to explore. Set in a new act system that runs parallel to the original game, Act 1 in PoE 2 serves as an introductory chapter to the new storyline, setting the stage for an even deeper, darker journey through Wraeclast.

This guide will walk you through Path of Exile 2 Act 1, covering essential campaign tips, quest walkthroughs, notable encounters, and gameplay strategies to help you navigate the act and prepare for the challenges ahead. Whether you're new to the franchise or a seasoned veteran, this guide will ensure you make the most of your experience in PoE 2. Understanding this article will help you more easily obtain POE 2 Orbs, currency, and other rewards.

New Beginnings: Entering Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2 takes place 20 years after the events of the original game. The story picks up with a new hero and a revamped setting, with new character classes, zones, and enemy types to encounter. Players can expect to meet a fresh cast of characters, each with their own motives, and venture into a more refined version of Wraeclast.

Unlike the original game, PoE 2 introduces five new character classes (the Ranger, Marauder, Templar, Witch, and Duelist are replaced by new subclasses), while keeping all of the original character options intact. The game is structured into Acts, much like the original PoE, with each act offering new locations, quests, and challenges. Act 1 in PoE 2 offers a rich new environment to explore, filled with the same dark, atmospheric landscapes that fans of the series know and love.

Act 1 Overview: The Journey Begins

Act 1 serves as an introduction to the new storyline and game mechanics. As you traverse through the act, you'll encounter both familiar and new features that set the tone for the rest of the game. The campaign is split into several quests, each designed to introduce you to new mechanics, enemy types, and loot systems that will become more complex as you progress through the game.

The act also introduces the revamped quest system, which includes a combination of narrative-driven quests, side missions, and objectives that reward you with valuable loot, currency, and experience points.

Act 1 Campaign Walkthrough

1. The Opening Prologue

The journey begins with a prologue that introduces your new character and the world around them. The first few minutes of the game are designed to ease you into PoE 2's mechanics, including basic movement, combat, and interaction systems.

As you make your way through the prologue, you will encounter initial enemies, including wildlife and low-level monsters. This serves as a great opportunity to get familiar with your new class and experiment with the newly revamped skill trees and mechanics.

Once you're introduced to the basics, you'll venture into The Wilds, the first zone in Act 1. Here, you'll start your first major quest: The Lost City.

2. The Lost City

The Lost City questline begins as you explore the ancient ruins in Wraeclast. Your first major battle will be against Undead enemies and corrupted creatures, showcasing the game's new monster designs. Early gameplay emphasizes survival and exploration, pushing you to understand the interplay between your skills, loot, and the new passive skill trees.

Key objectives in this questline include:

Clearing Enemy Camps: Early enemy camps require you to hone your combat skills and experiment with different weapons and gear.

Unlocking New Skills: Throughout the Lost City zone, you will find new active skills that will become essential for progressing through the rest of the campaign.

Boss Fight: The first major boss encounter in PoE 2 occurs towards the end of the Lost City, where you'll face a powerful undead boss that uses summoning abilities. This will require you to learn about boss mechanics, mobility, and timing your attacks.

Once you've completed the questline, you will move on to the Shattered Coast.

3. Shattered Coast

The Shattered Coast questline introduces you to the concept of environmental hazards and elemental damage. The area is filled with dangerous weather conditions, including storms that can damage you if you're not quick enough to find shelter.

Key objectives here include:

Navigating Environmental Hazards: As you progress, be mindful of the weather system and other environmental effects. You'll need to keep an eye on your health and energy to avoid being overwhelmed by these challenges.

Gearing Up: This zone also introduces the Crafting System for the first time, allowing you to craft and upgrade weapons, armor, and accessories. Experimenting with crafting will be critical in enhancing your build's strength and survivability.

Boss Encounter: At the end of the Shattered Coast lies the Corrupted Tide Boss, a massive water-based creature that requires you to be fast on your feet and employ both ranged and melee tactics to defeat.

4. The Undercity

The Undercity acts as the midway point in Act 1, where the stakes begin to rise. Here, you'll face dungeon-like zones, hidden traps, and more complex enemies. The area is filled with intricate puzzles and lore that explore the mysteries of Wraeclast's past. This zone is also where you'll meet some of the most important story characters that will shape the narrative.

Key objectives include:

Unlocking Hidden Areas: The Undercity is filled with secret rooms and locked areas. Use key items and special abilities to unlock these locations and gain access to rare items and quests.

New Enemy Types: Be prepared to face rogue necromancers, dark mages, and strange constructs. These enemies are more difficult and require strategic use of your skills.

Boss Fight: The Undercity culminates in a high-stakes boss fight against the Necromancer Lord, who can summon minions and cause environmental hazards. You'll need to be quick with your attacks and have a good understanding of dodging and resource management.

5. The Final Path

Once you defeat the Undercity boss, you'll complete Act 1 and be ready to continue your journey to Act 2. The final portion of Act 1 sets up the stakes for the rest of the campaign, leaving you with a feeling of impending doom. The corruption in Wraeclast is more dangerous than ever, and your hero's journey is only beginning.

Act 1: Key Features & Tips

New Skills & Passive Tree: PoE 2 introduces a new skill tree system that allows for deeper customization of your character. You'll need to experiment with different builds to find the most effective combinations of skills, items, and passives.

Crafting and Loot: The crafting system is significantly revamped. Act 1 will have you learning the ins and outs of crafting gear to match your build. Prioritize loot that matches your character's playstyle-whether you prefer to be a tank, damage dealer, or support class.

Currency: The economy in PoE 2 is similar to the first game, with currency items like Chaos Orbs, Exalted Orbs, and Fusing Orbs playing an important role. Be mindful of your currency management for poe2 trade and upgrading your gear.

Game Mechanics: PoE 2 introduces several new mechanics that will influence how you approach combat, such as elemental interactions, new skill types, and more dynamic enemy abilities. Stay sharp and adapt to these changes as you progress.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Challenges Ahead

Path of Exile 2 offers a vast, deep world filled with rich lore, brutal combat, and endless customization. Act 1 serves as an excellent introduction to the new systems while retaining the core principles of the original PoE. The revamped zones, quests, and bosses keep the game fresh and challenging while providing enough space for players to experiment with their builds.

Whether you're a seasoned PoE player or new to the franchise, Act 1 sets the tone for a thrilling journey ahead. Be prepared to face increasingly difficult enemies, uncover hidden treasures, and dive deeper into the mysteries of Wraeclast as you progress through this epic campaign.