With the impending release of Path of Exile's latest expansion, Affliction, slated for December 8, 2023, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch among the game's dedicated community. Developed by Grinding Gear Games, Path of Exile has earned acclaim for its deep gameplay mechanics, sprawling world, and regular content updates that keep players engaged for years on end. While Path of Exile 2 looms on the horizon, set to POE currency trade kick off with a closed beta on June 7th, 2024, Affliction promises to deliver an expansive new experience in its own right.

At the heart of the Affliction expansion lies the Viridian Wildwood, a mysterious and foreboding forest that beckons players with its enigmatic allure. Within its dark depths, players will encounter strange phenomena, challenging adversaries, and tantalizing treasures. The exploration of the Viridian Wildwood serves as the focal point of Affliction's narrative, drawing players into an immersive adventure unlike anything seen before in Path of Exile.

Central to the expansion's allure are the new Ascendancy classes, which introduce an added layer of depth to character customization. Ascendancy classes, unlocked in the latter stages of Path of Exile's campaign, allow players to specialize their characters further by selecting from a range of unique skill trees. In Affliction, players will discover three new Ascendancy classes tied to the Viridian Wildwood: Warden of the Maji, Warlock of the Mists, and Wildwood Primalist.

The Warlock of the Mists offers players the ability to glean insights from fallen foes, granting buffs and defensive bonuses against specific enemy types. By inspecting the corpses of defeated adversaries, players can identify weaknesses and exploit them to gain a tactical advantage. Meanwhile, the Wildwood Primalist introduces a dynamic element to character progression, allowing players to experiment with hybrid skill combinations and adapt their playstyles to suit the challenges of the Viridian Wildwood.

Navigating the Viridian Wildwood presents its own set of challenges and opportunities, with players encountering Wisps that guide them through the forest and empower enemies encountered along the way. This dynamic ecosystem introduces a new level of strategy and unpredictability to Path of Exile's gameplay, ensuring that each journey into the Viridian Wildwood is a unique and memorable experience.

In addition to the expansion's headline features, Affliction brings a host of changes and enhancements to Path of Exile's core gameplay and metagame. The Ultimatum League, previously introduced in 2021, is now being integrated into the core experience, with adjustments made to POE currency for sale balance and reward systems. Players can expect new mods and challenges as they test their skills against waves of formidable adversaries.

Furthermore, the introduction of Transfigured Gems represents a significant evolution in Path of Exile's itemization and progression systems. These gems consolidate Quality Gems, Labyrinth Helmet Enchants, and Unique Threshold Jewels into a unified system, offering players alternative versions of existing skill gems with unique twists and modifications.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Affliction is the flexibility it offers in character customization and progression. With the ability to respec individual points in Ascendancy skill trees at a reduced cost, players are encouraged to experiment with different builds and playstyles without fear of being locked into a single path. This newfound freedom empowers players to tailor their characters to their preferences and adapt to the ever-evolving challenges of the Viridian Wildwood.

As the release date for Path of Exile: Affliction draws nearer, excitement continues to build within the game's passionate community. With its immersive world, deep gameplay mechanics, and a wealth of new content to explore, Affliction promises to be another landmark expansion in the ongoing evolution of Path of Exile. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of Wraeclast, the Viridian Wildwood awaits, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of darkness.