Introduction

Welcome, Exile!

Congratulations on embarking on your journey into Path of Exile (PoE)! This action role-playing game (ARPG) is known for its deep systems and immense complexity, but don't worry—this guide will help you take your first steps in the game. While PoE may seem daunting at first, with the right approach, you'll find it a rewarding and engaging experience.

In this guide, we'll cover the basics you need to know before you start, help you choose the right league, explain how leveling works, and give you advice on building your character. Whether you're coming from another ARPG like Diablo or this is your first foray into the genre, we're here to make your journey easier and more enjoyable.

Before You Start

PoE's Complexity

Path of Exile is famous for its complexity. Many interconnected systems determine your success, and mastering them takes time. From the vast Passive Skill Tree to the intricate gem system and the currency-based economy, there is a lot to learn. Don't worry if it feels overwhelming—once you start playing, things will become clearer.

Path of Building Tool

One tool that will make your PoE journey much easier is Path of Building (PoB). It's a community-made build planner that helps you optimize your character build by testing Passive Tree nodes, gear, and gems. It's incredibly useful for visualizing your progress, figuring out how to scale your damage, and planning your end-game build.

If you're on PC, we highly recommend downloading Path of Building early. There's a simple installation guide available on how to get started with PoB, and we'll go over the Passive Skill Tree in more detail later on.

Choosing the Right League

When you first start Path of Exile, you'll need to choose a game mode. There are different types of leagues, each with unique rules and experiences. Here's a quick rundown of the main options:

Standard League

A permanent league where your characters stay indefinitely.

This is where your characters end up after finishing a temporary league or after dying in Hardcore mode.

No seasonal content (new mechanics or balance changes are not included).

Established economy with tradeable items and higher-level players.

Challenge Leagues (Temporary)

These leagues last 3–4 months and feature new mechanics or content updates.

When the league ends, all characters migrate to the Standard League, and items are locked in the league stash.

You can play in Softcore (default) or Hardcore modes in these leagues.

Hardcore means that if you die, your character is moved to Standard League.

Solo Self-Found (SSF)

In this mode, you cannot trade with other players or use the global stash.

You must rely entirely on the loot you find yourself, making it a more challenging and rewarding experience for self-sufficient players.

Ruthless Mode

A more punishing mode with reduced loot and items.

Designed for experienced players looking for a tough challenge, this mode significantly reduces the frequency of drops and item rarity.

Hardcore Challenge League

Similar to a Challenge League, but with the added twist that if you die, your character is moved to Standard League and removed from the Hardcore ladder.

Understanding Builds: Leveling Builds vs. Endgame Builds

Leveling Builds

When starting, League Starter Builds are your best friend. These builds are designed to help you progress through the game quickly and effectively. They are built with the early game in mind and are generally easier to execute, as they don't require high-end gear or specific items. The goal of a League Starter Build is to get you through the main campaign and into the endgame with minimal hassle.

When you follow a League Starter guide, you will be given specific instructions on how to level your character. This includes the Passive Tree, recommended gems, gear, and flasks that will be best suited for leveling and surviving tough encounters.

Endgame Builds

Once you finish the main campaign and enter the endgame (after Act 10), you can focus on transitioning your build into something that works well for endgame content like mapping, boss fights, and delving. This might involve replacing parts of your Passive Tree, adjusting your gear, and optimizing your skills and gems for maximum effectiveness.

Leveling to Endgame

Most of the League Starter Builds will also guide you toward the endgame, providing suggestions on how to scale your character as you progress through the game.

The First Few Hours: What to Expect

Starting the Campaign

When you first log in, you'll begin with Act 1 and work your way through various areas. The first few acts of the campaign are relatively straightforward, and the game does a good job of introducing you to the core mechanics of Path of Exile.

Here's a quick list of things to keep in mind during the early game:

Character Selection: Choose your class (which determines your starting attributes and ascendancy options).

You'll start as a Marauder, Witch, Ranger, etc., and can specialize later with Ascendancy choices.

Passive Skill Tree: As you level up, you'll allocate Passive Points to the Passive Skill Tree. This massive tree allows you to tailor your character's strengths (e.g., damage, survivability, resistance).

Active Skill Gems: Skills in PoE are tied to gems that you socket into your gear. As you progress, you'll acquire different gems that will expand your abilities and playstyle.

Flasks: Don't forget to keep your flasks stocked and upgraded. These provide essential healing, mana, and utility during combat.

Itemization: Focus on upgrading your gear (weapons, armor, accessories) throughout the campaign. You'll encounter a variety of item rarities, with magic and rare PoE items having different stats and affixes.

Currency: The economy of PoE currency items such as Chaos Orbs and Exalted Orbs. These are used to trade, craft, and enhance your gear.

Bosses and Encounters: Each Act features bosses and major encounters. You'll need to learn the mechanics of each fight and plan accordingly.

Important Systems to Understand Early On

1. The Atlas of Worlds Once you finish the main campaign, you'll gain access to the Atlas, which unlocks the mapping system. This is where the real endgame begins, with random map generation, bosses, and increasing difficulty. You'll be focusing on completing maps, gathering Map Fragments, and exploring the endgame content.

2. Trade In Standard League and Challenge Leagues, you'll need to interact with other players via the trade system. Understanding the in-game trade market is key to acquiring high-quality items and crafting materials.

Key Tips for Beginners

Focus on Learning, Not Perfection: Don't stress if you make mistakes. Path of Exile is a game about experimentation and discovery. The most important thing is to learn as you play.

Follow a Build Guide: A well-structured build will help you progress smoothly, even if you don't understand every mechanic at first.

Upgrade Your Gear: Always upgrade your gear to match your current level. Don't neglect your resistance and defensive stats.

Use the Community: The PoE community is vast and supportive. If you're stuck, check out forums, and videos, or ask questions.

Take Your Time: Don't rush through the content. Take the time to explore each act, try different playstyles, and experiment with skills and builds.

Conclusion

Starting Path of Exile can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it's one of the most rewarding ARPGs out there. By selecting the right League, following a League Starter Build, and taking time to learn about the game's systems, you'll be well on your way to mastering the game. Explore, experiment, and enjoy your time in Wraeclast!