Everything We Know Shapeshifting in Path of Exile 2

In 2019, Path of Exile fans were treated to one of the most surprising announcements in the game's history at ExileCon: Path of Exile 2. The announcement was excitedly greeted, promising a giant expansion that would add layers of depth to the already complex gameplay without replacing the original. One of the most talked-about features was shapeshifting—a long-requested ability finally coming to life in Path of Exile 2. This feature allows players to transform into various beast forms with unique attributes and playstyle enhancements.

Here's an in-depth look at what we know about the shapeshifting feature in Path of Exile 2—how it works, the types of beast forms available, and how it might shape gameplay.

In Path of Exile 2, shapeshifting is designed to be fluid, enabling players to switch between human and beast forms at will seamlessly. According to Chris Wilson, one of the founders of Grinding Gear Games, the shapeshifting mechanic allows players to change forms at any time, even mid-combat or during skill animations. This flexibility ensures that shapeshifting won't feel clunky or disrupt the flow of combat. It feels as natural as using a skill gem, making it an easy and accessible mechanic to integrate into any build.

Shapeshifting operates similarly to aura skills, utilizing a flat reservation cost. This cost is like what players experience with vitality and precision gems, meaning that activating a shapeshift will reserve a portion of the player's mana pool. Although there isn't confirmation on all support gems that can modify the reservation cost, standard support gems like Enlighten and Arrogance are expected to reduce it, with potentially new support gems specifically tailored to shapeshifting.

Four beast forms have been confirmed, each with unique abilities and combat enhancements.

Exclusive to the Beastmaster Ascendancy for the Ranger class, Werecat Form is a feral transformation focused on critical strikes and increased damage.

The Beastmaster Ascendancy node Born to Be Wild unlocks this form, along with a 10% damage boost while shapeshifted, giving players an edge in both damage and speed.

Wolf Form is built around increased mobility and damage, which is ideal for quick, high-impact gameplay.

While not much has been shared, it's speculated that the Wolf Form will offer movement and attack speed boosts, allowing for faster map clears and efficient monster hunting.

The Cat Form brings stealth and agility to the table, incorporating bonuses to movement speed and phasing.

Similar to Aspect of the Cat, this form is perfect for players who value speed and evasion, likely granting buffs that make it easier to avoid enemies while navigating dangerous areas.

Although information on Bear Form is scarce, it has been hinted to be the “tanky” option.

We expect Bear Form to come with reduced damage taken, endurance generation, and potentially self-healing or regeneration mechanics, making it ideal for players wanting to play a front-line tank role.

Dual Buffing with Shapeshifting Forms

One of the most fascinating aspects of shapeshifting is the Beastmaster's ability to retain buffs from one form while shifting into another. For instance, players may keep critical strike bonuses from Werecat Form while adopting the tankier Bear Form. This dual-buffing mechanic is enabled by the Wild Shape node, which grants a 100% buff effect to all shapeshifting abilities, offering incredible synergy and customization.

In addition to new beast forms, Path of Exile 2 will introduce 19 new Ascendancy classes, each bringing unique interactions with shapeshifting. One standout is the Beastmaster, who specializes in both animal companions and shapeshifting skills, enhancing damage, survivability, and skill versatility. Players can unlock additional benefits like dual buff effects, critical bonuses, and other enhancements tied to shapeshifting.

Grinding Gear Games has ensured that shapeshifting won't restrict players to specific weapons or combat styles. A shapeshifted character can still use regular Path of Exile 2 attacks that align with their chosen weapon. For instance, a character wielding a bow can still perform ranged attacks even while transformed. This flexibility also allows for unique combinations; for example, players can leap slam and cleave with a bow equipped, opening up unconventional yet effective combat options in Wolf Form.

Another Ranger Ascendancy, the Tactician, introduces a notable skill called Close Combat Specialist, allowing the use of melee skills (axe or sword) with a bow. This synergy opens up opportunities to mix traditional bow skills with close-range attacks in beast forms, broadening the combat possibilities even further.

Shapeshifting mechanics create room for varied and innovative gameplay strategies, from high-mobility critical builds to tanky endurance setups. The ability to change forms mid-combat without breaking animation ensures that players can adapt on the fly, optimizing combat flow and reactivity. Each form brings unique defensive and offensive benefits, potentially making shapeshifting a versatile core mechanic for both solo and group play.

For instance, a player might switch to Bear Form to absorb damage from a boss attack and then seamlessly revert to Werecat Form to unleash a flurry of critical strikes. This adaptability promises dynamic encounters and a fresh layer of complexity, especially in endgame content where diverse strategies are crucial.

To fully support shapeshifting, the Path of Exile 2 team has hinted at additional passive skill tree nodes and unique items designed specifically to enhance shapeshifting. These could include modifiers for buff duration, increased movement speed in beast forms, or critical bonuses tied to specific transformations. This integration into the skill tree will likely allow players to tailor their builds to maximize shapeshifting's potential, creating a unique blend of forms, weapons, and strategies.

As one of the most anticipated features of Path of Exile 2, shapeshifting is shaping up to be a game-changer, offering both flexibility and strategic depth. While many of these details were initially revealed at ExileCon 2019, more information is expected at ExileCon 2023, where developers will reveal updates and adjustments to this feature. Given the popularity of shapeshifting mechanics in other ARPGs, it's clear that Grinding Gear Games is committed to delivering a polished and engaging experience for Path of Exile 2 players.

Whether you're most excited about tanking in Bear Form, critting in Werecat Form, or dashing around in Wolf Form, Path of Exile 2's shapeshifting system promises to cater to various playstyles, redefining character customization and combat dynamics. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to embrace your inner beast when Path of Exile 2 finally releases.

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