Path of Exile 2’s “The Third Edict” Delivers Depth—but Leaves Some Players Sprinting in Frustration
Published on: 8/31/2025
Grinding Gear Games has officially dropped The Third Edict, the latest major update for Path of Exile 2, and while the content is rich and ambitious, the community’s reaction has been a mix of awe and agitation.
A New Act, A New League, A New Era
The centerpiece of the update is Act 4: Karui Archipelago, a sprawling, non-linear zone that lets players chart their own course across eight islands, each with its own biome, lore, and boss encounter. The new Rise of the Abyssals League introduces fissures that spawn undead horrors and reward players with Abyssal-themed gear and crafting materials.
Support gems have been overhauled, trade has been streamlined with asynchronous buying, and the new Lineage Support Gems offer deeper build customization. On paper, it’s a dream update for theorycrafters and lore lovers alike.
No New Class: A Missing Piece
But not everyone is celebrating. One of the most vocal criticisms from the community is the lack of a new class. Many players expected a fresh archetype to accompany the new act, especially after teasers hinted at Karui spiritualism and elemental mastery. Instead, the update doubled down on existing classes and gem systems.
Sprinting Feels... Off
Another sore spot? Sprinting, the new movement mechanic introduced to replace traditional movement skills like Dash and Flame Dash. While intended to create smoother, more grounded combat flow, many players report that sprinting feels clunky, unresponsive, and oddly punishing in boss fights.
Some have called for a hybrid system that allows both sprinting and traditional movement skills, while others argue that sprinting should be reworked entirely or made optional.
Free Weekend Brings New Blood
Despite the backlash, The Third Edict has brought a surge of new players thanks to the free weekend event, which allows anyone to play without an early access key. Progress carries over, and cosmetic rewards are available for reaching key milestones.
The influx of fresh eyes has reignited interest in the game’s long-term potential, even if veterans are feeling a bit burned by the lack of mechanical evolution.
