Path of Exile 2 launched over two months ago in early access, and though it offers a substantial amount of gameplay, there’s still quite a bit missing. There are currently only six weapon types available out of the planned twelve, along with only half of the skills for the existing weapons. As for the classes, we’re looking at a similar situation: only six classes are available right now, whereas the final version will double that number. Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has plans to introduce six additional classes complete with their Ascendancies, and there seems to be a strategy behind which will come first.
Choosing a class in Path of Exile 2 is a significant decision, often revolving around the Ascendancies. While some cases like the Blood Mage can be challenging early on due to health cost for skills, Ascendancies generally provide a significant boost in power. The base class you select affects more than just which Ascendancy you can choose; it also determines your base Attributes, your starting weapon and skills, and your position on the skill tree. Notably, the lineup of starter classes currently lacks a certain archetype—suggesting its introduction could be next on the list.
The next class expected to make its debut in Path of Exile 2 could be either the Druid or the Templar. Both offer the Int/Str attribute combination missing from the initial lineup. The final roster is anticipated to fill all the gaps, including:
– Sorceress, pure Intelligence
– Witch, pure Intelligence
– Druid, Intelligence and Strength
– Templar, Intelligence and Strength
– Warrior, pure Strength
– Marauder, pure Strength
– Mercenary, Strength and Dexterity
– Duelist, Strength and Dexterity
– Huntress, pure Dexterity
– Ranger, pure Dexterity
– Monk, Dexterity and Intelligence
– Shadow, Dexterity and Intelligence
The choice to potentially add the Druid or Templar next isn’t just about filling a missing attribute combination. In terms of timing, introducing the Templar could beat a similar class from Diablo 4 to market since it lacks a Paladin/Crusader counterpart. Alternatively, a Druid could differentiate Path of Exile 2 from its competitor and encourage both GGG and Blizzard to improve their respective ARPGs.
There’s always the possibility that GGG could take a different route, but adding either the Druid or Templar would be a strategic move. It could enrich the game with new playstyle options. For instance, introducing the Druid might enhance the game’s underexplored Totem skills. On the other hand, a Templar could focus on supporting and enhancing allies, aligning with its Ascendancy in the original Path of Exile. Time will tell how GGG will expand its roster, but adding these two classes certainly seems like a logical progression.