The grim and gritty world of Wraeclast will soon be opened up to cooperative adventures like never before. At GameSpot’s Summer Live showcase, Grinding Gear Games pulled back the curtain on Path of Exile 2’s co-op gameplay, confirming the long-awaited sequel will support local couch co-op as well as cross-platform multiplayer between PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5 when it enters Early Access later this year.
In a live demo, Console Game Director Trevor Gamon and GameSpot’s Kurt Indovina teamed up to brave Path of Exile 2’s sprawling campaign filled with deadly bosses, customizable character builds, and the series’ signature randomized loot grind. The footage showcased how two players will be able to seamlessly journey together, swapping gear, combining abilities from the game’s revamped skill gem system, and enjoying new co-op twists on classic activities like fishing and knucklebones.
“Couch co-op is something we have wanted to do for a long time. Action RPGs are a genre that are way more fun with friends, and it’s even better when you can play in the same room together,” said Game Director Jonathan Rogers.
But the cooperative fun won’t be limited to just couch multiplayer. Grinding Gear Games also confirmed Path of Exile 2 will feature full cross-play integration between all three platforms at launch, allowing players on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation to join each other’s online sessions regardless of platform.
Revealed during the demo, new co-op mechanics will let players synchronize attacks for increased damage or provide stat bonuses when fighting back-to-back. With over 100 bosses to conquer, having a friend’s help could prove invaluable while crusading through Wraeclast’s hazardous landscapes.
Of course, solo players won’t be left out either. Path of Exile 2 is set to introduce a host of new gameplay systems like dual-specialization passive skill trees, over 400 total skill gems to customize character builds, and an overhauled endgame experience featuring revisited past league content.
Originally unveiled back in 2019, Path of Exile 2 has been billed as a full-fledged sequel looking to maintain the free-to-play ARPG’s core gameplay loop while adding a brand new seven-act storyline, updated graphics, and other major enhancements. While an exact Early Access date hasn’t been set, the co-op demo provided the first extended look at these ambitious new multiplayer features in action.
After over a decade as a cult hit, the long road to Path of Exile 2’s launch is nearing its end. And soon, players across PC and consoles will be able to join forces and take their first co-operative steps into Wraeclast’s dark ages together.
