Exciting news is on the horizon for Path of Exile 2 players, as the upcoming patch 0.2.0 is set to drop in March 2025, bringing with it some significant changes and additions to the game. Developer Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has confirmed that the patch will introduce the much-awaited Gladiator class, which has been a fan favorite for quite some time. Along with the Gladiator, there’s a strong possibility that Path of Exile 2 will also see the introduction of new two-handed weapon subtypes, including two-handed axes and swords, bringing new playstyle opportunities, skills, and builds into the mix. This marks the third major patch in the lead-up to the full release of POE2 Trade, which is shaping up to be a game-changing update for fans of the series.

In this article, we’ll explore the key features coming in patch 0.2.0, what we can expect from the Gladiator class, and how the introduction of new two-handed weapons will affect the gameplay of Path of Exile 2.

The Gladiator Class: A New Era for Combat Builds
The Gladiator class is one of the most anticipated additions to Path of Exile 2. Gladiators have long been a staple of fantasy worlds, known for their mastery of both offense and defense, combining deadly weapon skills with the ability to take a beating in combat. Path of Exile has always been known for its deep, customizable skill systems, and the Gladiator is expected to add another layer of complexity with unique mechanics and synergies.

Key Features of the Gladiator Class
While GGG has yet to reveal all the specific details about the Gladiator’s skills and abilities, there are a few things we can infer based on the class's role in previous Path of Exile games and general fantasy archetypes.

Weapon Specialization: Given the Gladiator’s traditional duality as both a fighter and a defender, it’s likely that the Gladiator will specialize in a broad array of weapons, from swords to maces to the newly introduced two-handed axes and swords. The Gladiator may have unique bonuses or interactions that focus on wielding these weapons effectively.

Defensive and Offensive Mastery: As a fighter who thrives in the thick of battle, the Gladiator will likely have access to defensive mechanics like block, dodge, or armor scaling, allowing them to survive intense fights. However, their offensive capabilities won’t be far behind—expect powerful melee abilities that can devastate foes, particularly when combined with skills tied to the new two-handed weapons.

Synergies with New Weapon Types: As the Gladiator class is rolled out alongside new two-handed axes and swords, it’s likely that the class will have synergy with these new weapon types, granting them bonus effects or abilities that work best when wielding these powerful weapons. This could allow for specialized builds that focus on heavy-hitting two-handed weapon playstyles.

Overall, the Gladiator class promises to offer an exciting and dynamic gameplay experience, blending both offensive power and defensive durability. Whether players want to crush enemies with devastating two-handed weapons or stand firm as an indomitable force in battle, the Gladiator will undoubtedly offer a wealth of playstyle options.

New Two-Hander Subtypes: Axes and Swords
In addition to the Gladiator class, one of the most intriguing features coming with patch 0.2.0 is the potential addition of new two-handed weapon subtypes. While Path of Exile already offers a wide variety of weapons to choose from, the introduction of two-handed axes and swords could shake up the gameplay in a big way, providing new opportunities for players to build around these weapons.

The Addition of Two-Handed Axes and Swords
Historically, Path of Exile has offered a robust selection of two-handed weapons, but the introduction of two-handed axes and two-handed swords could fill gaps in the existing weapon pool. These new weapons would allow for fresh approaches to combat, with new mechanics, synergies, and possibilities for character builds. Players would be able to choose between wielding massive axes or elegant swords, each offering different advantages in combat.

Two-Handed Axes: Axes are often associated with high damage output and cleaving abilities. The introduction of two-handed axes could potentially enhance Path of Exile 2’s melee combat, offering builds focused on area-of-effect (AoE) damage and crowd control. These axes could be paired with abilities that maximize their reach and impact, allowing Gladiators or other classes to clear swaths of enemies with each mighty swing.

Two-Handed Swords: On the other hand, two-handed swords are typically iconic for their balance between speed and power. These weapons may come with abilities that focus on precise strikes, bleeding effects, or quick combos, giving players the option to take down enemies both efficiently and stylishly. With the new synergies tied to these swords, players could build a Gladiator that mixes offense and defense in ways never seen before.

The Impact on Skills and Playstyles
The introduction of new weapon types would not only expand the variety of gear available but also bring with them new skill gems tied to these weapons. Path of Exile is known for its vast skill gem system, and each new weapon type brings the possibility of new skills that cater to those weapons. Expect to see new active skills that allow players to harness the power of these two-handed axes and swords, creating fresh playstyles that revolve around the devastating force of these weapons.

These new skills could include:

Heavy Cleave Attacks: Skills that let players swing their two-handed axes with devastating effect, hitting multiple enemies in a wide arc.
Charged Slashes: Sword-based skills that reward precision and timing, allowing players to build up powerful attacks.
Overpowered Power Strikes: Skills that turn the two-handed weapon into an unstoppable force, dealing massive damage to enemies in a single blow.
These additions would dramatically alter how players approach combat, adding variety and encouraging new character builds based around the newly introduced weapon types.

Release Date and Events
GGG has confirmed that patch 0.2.0 is scheduled for release sometime in March 2025, with a rough estimate of March 17 to March 20 being the most likely timeframe based on previous announcements. The patch will be accompanied by several in-game competitive events, with the final event set to take place on March 16, which could act as a precursor to the patch’s launch.

With these events ramping up excitement and anticipation for the update, Path of Exile 2 is set to enter a new era of gameplay. Players can look forward to diving deep into the Gladiator class, experimenting with new two-handed weapons, and fine-tuning their builds with fresh skills and synergies.

Conclusion
Patch 0.2.0 is shaping up to be a major update for Path of Exile 2, bringing not only the Gladiator class but also a range of new weapon options, including two-handed axes and swords. These additions promise to expand the gameplay options for players, offering new strategies and tactics in combat. With the release date just around the corner, fans of Path of Exile have a lot to look forward to in March 2025, and it’s clear that this patch will be a significant step toward the full launch of Path of Exile 2.

If you’re a fan of cheap POE2 Currency and looking to optimize your character builds, the Gladiator class and the introduction of new weapon types are sure to breathe fresh life into your gameplay experience. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches, and get ready for the thrilling challenges and rewards that await in patch 0.2.0!