Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) has stormed through Early Access with the force of a meteor, capturing the attention of over a million players at launch. This sequel to the acclaimed free-to-play action RPG has not only upheld the legacy of its predecessor but has taken bold strides into new territory with innovative gameplay mechanics, enhanced visuals, and deeply engaging storytelling. As the game enters Season 2—Dawn of the Hunt—Grinding Gear Games has introduced a brand-new class that embodies the game’s dark and mythic tone: the Huntress.

A Phenomenal Launch: Over 1 Million Players Strong

From its inception, Path of Exile 2 Currency was destined to be a juggernaut in the ARPG genre. Building on the strengths of the first game, GGG (Grinding Gear Games) promised more than just a sequel. They delivered a reimagined world with modernized systems, a robust narrative, fluid combat mechanics, and a staggering level of customization.

At launch, PoE2 saw over 1 million players dive into Wraeclast, a number that speaks volumes about the game’s appeal and the community’s hunger for a refined ARPG experience. Despite being in Early Access, PoE2 has proven to be incredibly polished, offering deep builds, challenging enemies, and a vast world full of secrets to uncover.

Season 2: Dawn of the Hunt – What’s New?

Seasonal updates have long been a key part of Path of Exile’s model, and Dawn of the Hunt is a shining example of how GGG continues to push boundaries. This second season expands on the foundation laid in the base game and Season 1 by introducing new mechanics, rebalancing systems, and—most excitingly—debuting a new playable class: the Huntress.

The title “Dawn of the Hunt” is not just a thematic flourish. It encapsulates the essence of the season—wildness, survival, tradition, and the ever-present clash between civilization and nature. These themes are intricately woven into the game’s third act, where the Huntress makes her feral yet graceful entrance.

Introducing the Huntress: Azmeri Warrior Turned Exile

The Huntress is more than just another class option. She’s a symbol of rebellion, survival, and tradition intertwined. Born among the Azmeri, a fierce and spiritually-driven people who uphold strict warrior codes, the Huntress was trained in combat from a young age. However, her exile was a result of stepping beyond her society’s boundaries. In an act of defiance and desperation, she used the power of a forbidden skill gem to defend her village—an act deemed sacrilegious by her tribe’s elders.

As punishment, she was exiled. But in classic Path of Exile fashion, exile is merely the beginning of a hero’s journey.

Hybrid Combat Mastery: Spear and Strategy

Mechanically, the Huntress stands out due to her hybrid combat style, blending fluid melee and precise ranged attacks using a spear. Players who favor mobility, precision, and a rhythmic, dance-like style of battle will find a perfect match in her.

Unlike more brute-force melee classes or full-range archetypes, the Huntress thrives in the space between melee and range—closing gaps with dashing spear strikes, evading with nimble rolls, and using skill gems to unleash elemental or spiritual effects. Her kit encourages dynamic positioning, making players consider the battlefield with each encounter.

Some standout features of the Huntress include:

Chain Spear Combos: Execute flowing attacks that build in intensity, rewarding timing and positioning.

Beast Hunting Techniques: Tap into Azmeri traditions by unleashing nature-based powers—snaring enemies, calling spirit beasts, or drawing upon elemental forces.

Dual-stance Mechanics: Switch between an aggressive spear stance and a defensive or ranged form, allowing adaptive playstyles.

Thematic Richness: A Story Carved in Blood and Tradition

One of PoE2’s standout qualities is its attention to narrative depth. The Huntress doesn’t just arrive in the game mechanically—she arrives thematically. Her story complements the broader narrative of Act III, which dives into themes of colonization, tribal legacies, and the complex morality of survival.

Through her journey, players explore the Azmeri lands, a rugged and spiritual region marked by sacred beasts, shamanic rituals, and the looming tension between the old ways and the encroaching dark forces. The Huntress’s personal arc is one of redemption, identity, and sacrifice. As she battles through the monsters of Wraeclast, players get a glimpse into her cultural roots and inner conflict.

New Content and Gameplay Enhancements

Season 2 isn’t only about the Huntress. Dawn of the Hunt brings a treasure trove of new content:

New Quests and Zones: Act III has been vastly expanded with new explorable areas, side quests, and hidden dungeons tied to the Huntress’s origins.

New Monsters and Bosses: The wild lands are populated with new beast-type enemies, each requiring unique strategies to defeat. Boss fights now have phased mechanics that evolve throughout the battle.

Loot System Improvements: Rare drops and set items tailored to hybrid classes like the Huntress offer more rewarding build paths. Huntress-exclusive spear sets and spiritual talismans have been introduced.

Balance and Quality-of-Life Updates: Player feedback from Season 1 has shaped major balance changes across skill gems, passive trees, and crafting systems. The UI has also been improved for smoother skill and inventory management.

Community Engagement and Player Creativity

The PoE community has always been a driving force behind the game’s longevity. With the introduction of the Huntress, players have eagerly started sharing build guides, theorycrafting ideas, and spectacular gameplay clips showcasing her potential.

Whether it's a build that emphasizes high crit spear thrusts or one that focuses on summoning animal spirits to aid in combat, the Huntress has already inspired a wave of creativity. GGG has supported this surge with developer Q&As, community spotlights, and teaser videos exploring the making of the Huntress.

Where the Huntress Fits in the Meta

In terms of balance, the Huntress is well-positioned in the current meta as a mid-range disruptor. She doesn’t have the tankiness of frontline classes or the burst range of glass-cannon mages, but she makes up for it in mobility, versatility, and tactical edge. Her effectiveness in PvE is notable, especially in boss encounters that require agility and adaptation.

She’s particularly effective in group play, too. Her ability to quickly reposition, apply crowd control through spirit snares or stuns, and deal consistent damage makes her a valuable party member. Expect her to become a staple in many high-level groups as players master her playstyle.

Looking Ahead: The Future of PoE2

If Season 2 is any indication, the future of Path of Exile 2 is incredibly bright. GGG has shown that it’s not only capable of delivering robust content at a rapid pace, but also listening closely to its community. With more classes, acts, and narrative arcs on the horizon, PoE2 is shaping up to be the most complete and ambitious ARPG experience available.

For fans of the genre, Path of Exile 2 offers a level of depth and commitment to storytelling that few others match. The Huntress, with her poignant origins and kinetic playstyle, is a prime example of how GGG continues to evolve its world while staying true to the grim, gothic spirit of Wraeclast.

Final Thoughts

Path of Exile 2: Dawn of the Hunt is more than just an update—it’s a statement. With over 1 million players already exploring its dark corners, and a new class that blends style, substance, and rich lore, PoE2 proves once again that it's in a league of its own.

The Huntress adds a fresh layer to the already complex character roster, offering a unique experience for both newcomers and veterans alike, buy Path of Exile 2 Currency. Whether you're drawn in by her tribal backstory, her spear-slinging combat, or the spiritual ferocity she embodies, one thing is clear: in Dawn of the Hunt, the Huntress is a force to be reckoned with.

And as the season continues, the hunt has only just begun.