In Path of Exile 2 (PoE2), the trade system is a crucial element that allows players to exchange in-game items, currency, and gear to progress and optimize their builds. However, there’s a growing issue within the game’s Softcore (SC) Trade system that is raising concerns among players: the inefficiency, accessibility problems, and imbalance that currently plague this aspect of the game. While trade is supposed to poe2 trade be a fun and rewarding way to engage with the economy, in its current form, it’s causing frustration and diminishing the overall experience for many players.

The Inefficiency of the SC Trade System

One of the most glaring issues with the Softcore Trade system in PoE2 is its inefficiency. Players often find themselves frustrated by the slow and clunky process of searching for specific items, especially when using the game’s trade search function. Unlike in many modern ARPGs, PoE2’s trade system still relies on third-party websites or clumsy in-game search filters, making it tedious for players to locate what they need.

The reliance on external tools, such as trade sites and social media groups, results in a fragmented and disconnected trading experience. Players often have to jump between different platforms, check multiple listings, and message countless sellers before finding the desired item. This process is not only time-consuming but also detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game.

Moreover, the listing fees associated with placing items for trade, alongside the inventory management required to handle multiple trades, only further complicate the experience. These inefficiencies make trading feel like a chore rather than a beneficial part of the game.

Accessibility Issues for New Players

Another issue that has surfaced is the accessibility of trading for newer players. While veterans may be familiar with the system and can easily navigate trade offers and negotiate deals, newer players often struggle to understand how to effectively engage in the trade market.

The learning curve for trading in PoE2 can be quite steep. For instance, newer players may not understand the value of items, which can lead to unbalanced trades and frustration. Without a proper in-game guidance system or tutorial, it’s easy for beginners to get lost in the trade process or make poor deals. Additionally, the lack of trading filters or automatic pricing tools makes it harder for casual players to know what items are worth, causing a further barrier to entry.

This lack of accessibility also impacts the economy of the game. New players might find themselves being undercut or outbid in trades by more experienced players, leading to feelings of unfairness and discouragement. As a result, they might avoid trading altogether and instead focus solely on self-farming, which reduces the overall fluidity of the game’s economy.

Imbalance Between Trade and Drop Rates

Perhaps the most contentious issue is the imbalance between the availability of tradeable items and the drop rates of said items in PoE2. The current system tends to favor players who engage in high-end farming or have significant access to resources, while leaving less experienced or casual players at a disadvantage.

In many cases, the items that are most sought after in SC Trade—such as high-level gear, unique items, or rare currencies—are not easily obtainable through regular gameplay. Players who don’t have the time or skill to grind for these items are forced to engage in trade, but the high demand for certain items and the relatively low drop rates mean that they often cannot afford them or get outbid. This creates a snowball effect where wealthier or more experienced players continue to dominate the trade market, leading to an imbalanced economy and further alienation for casual players.

Potential Solutions

While these problems have been frustrating for many, there are potential solutions that could help improve the SC Trade system in PoE2. One of the most crucial changes would be the implementation of a more streamlined, in-game trading interface that allows players to trade without relying on external platforms. Adding better search filters, clearer item value indicators, and automated pricing tools could significantly improve the experience for everyone, especially new players.

Additionally, developers could address the drop rate imbalance by revisiting the availability of high-tier items within the game, ensuring that casual players have more chances to obtain rare items without having to POE 2 Orbs rely solely on the trade market. Balancing item drops with the economy would promote a healthier, more accessible trading system that encourages fair exchanges for all players.