Path of Exile 2's challenging endgame has sparked debate among players, prompting a response from the developers. Co-directors Mark Roberts and Jonathan Rogers defended the current difficulty, emphasizing the importance of meaningful consequences for death. They argued that the high difficulty prevents players from progressing too quickly, stating that frequent deaths indicate a need for improved build optimization or strategy. The "death actually mattering" aspect, they explained, is crucial to the game's core experience. Changes like reverting to a single-portal system, they believe, would fundamentally alter the game's feel.

While acknowledging player concerns, Rogers clarified that the challenging endgame is designed to keep players within their appropriate skill level. He suggested that repeated deaths signify a need to strengthen builds and strategies before tackling higher-level content. However, Grinding Gear Games is reviewing the various elements contributing to the endgame's difficulty, aiming to preserve the authentic Path of Exile 2 experience while potentially addressing specific issues.

The endgame unfolds within the intricate Atlas of Worlds. Players, having completed the main campaign on Cruel difficulty, navigate interconnected maps, battling formidable bosses and overcoming complex challenges. Success hinges on crafting powerful builds, optimizing gear, and skillfully utilizing portals. While numerous guides offer advanced strategies for conquering high-tier maps and maximizing gear quality, the endgame's demanding nature continues to pose a significant hurdle for many players. The developers' stance, however, remains firm in their belief that the current difficulty is integral to the game's design.