Tonight is the night: The online action RPG Path of Exile (PoE) will present its new expansion. Does the Steam hit Wolcen need to brace itself?
What is Grinding Gear Games announcing? In recent weeks, the developers have been on a press tour to present the next expansion of the action RPG Path of Exile. Tonight around 9 PM the embargo will be lifted and we will know what this expansion brings.
Is Wolcen in Trouble?
Why could Wolcen face problems? Currently, the hack ‘n slash Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem is on everyone’s lips. Although the launch of the game did not go well, it has surpassed Path of Exile in terms of player numbers on Steam.
However, a pattern is emerging for PoE according to Steamcharts when it comes to player numbers. Whenever a new expansion is released, the numbers spike sharply, only to drop significantly shortly after. This shows: A new addon brings the PoE fans back to the game in droves until they have played through the content.
This could pose a real danger to Wolcen. Depending on what the next expansion brings, the player numbers might even surpass those of Wolcen.
Wolcen had over 127,500 players in the first weekend after release. The peak for PoE was over 123,400 players when the addon Betrayal was released.
If the next expansion meets the fans’ expectations and runs smoothly and without major bugs, it could be possible that PoE surpasses Wolcen in Steam player numbers.
What Players Wish For
What do PoE fans want from the new expansion? Players are already discussing on Reddit what the addon could bring. High on the wish list are further improvements for melee characters and a nerf for the necromancer, who is still far too powerful.
A type of bingo is being played (via reddit), where players can indicate what they wish for or what they think will be introduced. Options include among others:
- Totem adjustments
- New equipment type
- Water as a theme for the expansion
- Overhaul of traps
- Adjustments to the Conqueror system
When will the new expansion be released? According to the developers, they are currently planning the release for March 13. However, they reserve the right to delay the release if issues arise.
What do you wish for the new expansion for Path of Exile and do you think that it can break Wolcen’s player record?
