Grinding Gear Games is having quite the year in 2024. They’ve managed to roll out two Leagues for Path of Exile 1 and launched the early access for Path of Exile 2. Even though Path of Exile 2 is still a work in progress, it’s already gaining a reputation as one of the top action RPGs out there. While the developers initially aimed to juggle both games simultaneously—planning to release alternating updates and patches—Jonathan Rogers admitted in a recent video that this ambitious plan wasn’t feasible. Nonetheless, excitement builds as February 20 approaches, marking a significant day for Path of Exile.
The road to the first League for Path of Exile 2 remains uncertain and may not align with patch 0.2.0. Meanwhile, Path of Exile 1 has been marooned on the Settlers of Kalguur League for over 200 days, earning it the title of the longest-running League in the game’s history. As a gesture of goodwill to fans, Grinding Gear Games has crafted the Legacy of Phrecia event, scheduled to kick off on February 20. This event promises to bring 19 entirely new Ascendancy classes rooted in the game’s lore and mechanics.
Let’s delve into why this event is such a big deal. While Legacy of Phrecia isn’t directly tied to Path of Exile 2, it could spark inspiration for future events or Leagues. More crucially, this marks a fresh infusion of content for Path of Exile 1, after a significant drought. This becomes even more meaningful when you consider that Path of Exile 1 is nearly a dozen years old—14 if you count from its closed beta days back in 2011. The Ascendancy classes haven’t seen major changes for almost nine years, making this new addition a breath of fresh air for the game.
Legacy of Phrecia doesn’t upend the balance with a sweeping patch, but it does introduce new Ascendancy classes that shake up player strategies with creative builds. These 19 new Ascendancies don’t just diversify gameplay; they bring in unique themes that probably wouldn’t fit into the regular lineup of classes in either Path of Exile 1 or 2. Take, for example, the Witch’s Harbinger Ascendancy, which is derived from the entities introduced in their respective 2017 League. Despite being traditional enemies, some skills have allowed players to summon Harbingers. Now, players can explore a new dimension by siding with these captivating beings. Similarly, the Marauder’s Antiquarian Ascendancy draws power from ancient artifacts, adding a unique twist to the gameplay.
Path of Exile 2 players would be wise not to overlook Legacy of Phrecia. Although this event is centrically tied to Path of Exile 1, GGG promises alternate Ascendancy classes will resurface in upcoming private Leagues. The event spans a month, yet Grinding Gear Games has hinted at extending its run based on community feedback. Participants will have a chance to collect exclusive rewards, like the visually stunning Autumn Knight armor set, whose pieces are unlocked at levels 20, 40, 60, and 80. This set is versatile and usable in both games, not to mention it won’t be purchasable elsewhere. Additionally, Twitch Drops will be up for grabs during the event’s inaugural week. Legacy of Phrecia offers players of both games compelling reasons to engage, setting up a win-win scenario for Path of Exile enthusiasts.
