Grinding Gear Games upcoming ARPG sequel, Path of Exile 2 continues to garner attention for its many ambitious and elaborate gameplay systems and a ton of build crafting potential. 

The POE 2 early access campaign looks to be no slouch either, featuring three distinct story acts and multiple endgame activities that should allow you to continue honing your builds, tackle more challenging encounters, and unlock new tantalizing rewards for many hours. 

How long to beat Path of Exile 2 campaign?

If you’re looking forward to more endgame shenanigans in POE 2 or simply eager about its story length, you’re in the right place. Continue reading to learn how long it will take to beat the Path of Exile 2 campaign.

Path of Exile 2 campaign length explained

Path of Exile 2 campaign length
Credit: Grinding Gear Games

Path of Exile 2 early access campaign could take over 25 hours to finish if you’re new to ARPGs. This is according to game director Jonathan Rogers, who spoke extensively about PoE 2’s game structure in the endgame content reveal video

As mentioned above, PoE 2’s early access campaign only features three of the six-story acts. However, to reach the level 65 cap and start the endgame, you have to finish the campaign again on the new “Cruel” difficulty. Think of it as an NG+ mode.  

Hence, overall, it could take roughly 50 hours to beat POE 2’s campaign, at least in its early access phase.  

Path of Exile 2 release platforms
Credit: Grinding Gear Games/ONE Esports
Big question — Is Path of Exile 2 on Gamepass?

Once the full game launches, however, Grinding Gear Games will remove the Cruel difficulty, and you will be able to play directly from Act 1 to Act 6 and head straight to the endgame stuff without having to replay any story content. 

Act 1 of PoE 2’s campaign takes you through the corrupted forests of Ogham, where two rival factions, Ezomyte and Eternal, have shed much blood. 

Act 2 is quite the departure and takes place in the scorching wastelands of the Vastiri, whereas Act 3 invites you to the dense jungles of the Vall, full of dilapidated temples.

READ MORE: Path of Exile 2 PC system requirements: Can your PC handle next-gen ARPG?