Path of Exile is but the latest in our steady stream of featured Free to Play game impressions. While the hack and slash clickfest may be quite familiar to players, we've put together this handy FAQ to help everyone play together. Prepare yourself for a repetitive stress injury!
How many players can play Path of Exile locally (couch co-op)? How many players can play Path of Exile via system link or LAN? How many players can play Path of Exile online? How do you begin a co-op session in Path of Exile? How does save game progress work for co-op play in Path of Exile? Can I join a game if the host is further along than me in Path of Exile? What sort of things can I expect to pay for in Path of Exile? How is loot handled in Path of Exile? Can players trade items?How many players can play Path of Exile locally (couch co-op)?
None, it's an online game you silly goose!
How many players can play Path of Exile via system link or LAN?
If your LAN is connected to the internet, you could all play together, but in keeping with the spirit of the question, Path of Exile does not support offline play of any kind.
How many players can play Path of Exile online?
Path of Exile's maximum party size is six players. Ergo, six players may play together online. Simple.
How do you begin a co-op session in Path of Exile?
There are several ways. The easiest is simply to invite people directly from your in-game Friends list. In-game towns act as social hubs and you can recruit players through chat, or you can set up party requests through the posting board in town.
How does save game progress work for co-op play in Path of Exile?
Each player's progress is independent. If players are not on the same progression level, you can always backtrack to catch people up.
Can I join a game if the host is further along than me in Path of Exile?
Yes. As stated, a party can backtrack as far as necessary to catch people up, or simply adventure together.
What sort of things can I expect to pay for in Path of Exile?
Unlike many other free-to-play games, Path of Exile doesn't lock out any gameplay via a paywall OR forced grinding. Things you can pay for generally fall into four categories: alternate effects for your spells/weapons, alternate character animations, account-level convenience items such as extra stash tabs or character slots, or non-combat pets. Additionally, you may purchase "Supporter Packs", which provide in-game currency as well as a variety of bonuses. These are inspired by Kickstarter reward tiers, and are priced as such.
How is loot handled in Path of Exile? Can players trade items?
In keeping with tradition, all loot dropped in-game is visible by every player. Want that hot sword? Be prepared to race for it. Otherwise, ask your co-op partner to trade it to you. Yes, you can trade items.