Path of Exile 2 developer Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has responded to the community's backlash against the Dawn of the Hunt update with a series of emergency changes, following a drop in Steam user reviews to 'mostly negative.' The update, which launched earlier this month, introduced the new Huntress class, five new ascension classes, and a host of new unique items and crafting options. However, the community felt that the update slowed down gameplay excessively, turning the experience into a "total slog."

The 'most helpful' review on Steam within the last 30 days reflects these sentiments, criticizing the extended boss fights, ineffective skills, and overall sluggish gameplay. Another review humorously suggested that the game might only appeal to masochists, highlighting the slow movement, large area sizes, and forced combo gameplay that players found restrictive.

In response, GGG has already implemented changes and announced further adjustments in the upcoming 0.2.0e patch, set to release on April 11. The patch notes detail several modifications aimed at addressing the community's concerns:

Monster Speed Changes:

• Removed interrupt events on human monsters to reduce relentless pursuit.
• Adjusted the Haste Aura modifier to not appear on already fast monsters.
• Specific adjustments across Acts 1, 2, and 3 to reduce monster density and adjust their behaviors.

Boss Changes:

• Reduced the intensity of Chaos Rains in the Viper Napuatzi fight.
• Adjusted Uxmal's mechanics to make the fight less frustrating.
• Improved visibility in Xyclucian's arena.

Player Minion Changes:

• Modified minion revive timers to prevent repeated long waits.
• Enhanced the usability of Bind Spectre and Tame Beast gems.

Other Player Balance:

• Expanded the utility of Rally support and Glory skills.
• Fixed a bug with the Ritualist ascendancy's Blood Boils.

Crafting Changes:

• Added new mods to runes for caster weapons.
• Introduced a new mechanic for obtaining elemental runes at Renly's shop.

Performance Improvements:

• Optimized ground foliage for better performance.

The question remains whether these changes will be sufficient to address the community's concerns and restore a positive reception for Path of Exile 2. Despite the initial success and high player turnout at launch, the game's development has faced challenges, impacting even Path of Exile 1's loyal audience.

Further changes are planned for deployment after the weekend, including enhancements to the charm system, the introduction of Stash Tab Affinities, and the addition of Atlas Bookmarks to improve navigation and item management.

These efforts by GGG demonstrate a commitment to listening to player feedback and making continuous improvements to enhance the gaming experience in Path of Exile 2.