In Path of Exile, currency is a crucial element that governs many aspects of gameplay, from crafting to trading. However, as the game continues to evolve, some older currency systems have been phased out or replaced with newer mechanics. These removed forms of currency, while once essential parts of the economy, have now become obsolete, replaced by systems that better align with the overall design and balance of the game. In this blog, we will explore some of the currency systems that have been removed from POE over time, examining their impact on the game and why they were eventually discarded.
The History of Currency in Path of Exile
Currency in Path of Exile has always been more complex than the traditional gold-based systems seen in other RPGs. From the beginning, POE introduced orbs, scrolls, and other forms of currency that could be used for crafting, trading, and altering items. These currencies, such as Chaos Orbs, Exalted Orbs, and Mirror of Kalandra, became central to the game’s crafting system, allowing players to modify their gear and improve their characters’ power.
In addition to these widely used orbs, POE introduced numerous other forms of currency that were less common but still important in certain contexts. Some of these currencies were specific to certain content, leagues, or expansion packs, while others were experimental ideas that were eventually deemed redundant or unnecessary. Over time, as the game’s systems became more streamlined and balanced, many of these currencies were removed, leaving behind a more refined and focused economy.
Removed Currencies: The Obsolete Systems
One of the most notable examples of removed currency systems is the “Regal Orb” and its associated mechanics. Initially, Regal Orbs were used to upgrade normal items to rare items, adding random affixes and increasing the item’s potential value. However, over time, this system became redundant due to the introduction of more versatile crafting mechanics, such as the addition of the “Essences” and “Harvest” crafting systems. These new mechanics allowed players to have more control over the affixes added to their items, rendering the Regal Orb unnecessary.
Another removed currency system was the “Vaal Orb.” While still present in POE today, the Vaal Orb’s role in altering items and adding corruption effects has evolved over time. In earlier versions of the game, Vaal Orbs had a much broader range of effects, including the ability to transform items into corrupted versions with entirely random properties. This randomness led to a lot of frustration among players, as it could result in devastating consequences for valuable items. Over time, the developers of POE streamlined the Vaal Orb’s effects, reducing its randomness and limiting its potential impact on rare and unique items.
The “Ancient Orbs” are another example of a removed currency that had an interesting concept but did not find lasting relevance in POE’s broader economic systems. Introduced as part of a specific league, Ancient Orbs allowed players to alter items from a previous era or “timeline,” making them more powerful but also more unpredictable. While the idea was interesting, it was ultimately discarded because it was too niche and did not provide enough value to justify its existence in the long run.
Why These Systems Were Removed
The primary reason these currency systems were removed or replaced lies in POE’s constant drive for balance and clarity. As the game’s developers continued to refine the crafting, trading, and economy systems, they sought to reduce the complexity of obsolete mechanics that did not contribute meaningfully to the player experience. This streamlining process helped create a more accessible, balanced, and focused game where the core systems were more intuitive and less reliant on niche currencies that only served specific or limited purposes.
Another key reason for the removal of these currencies was the introduction of newer systems that provided greater flexibility and control for players. With the addition of more advanced crafting mechanics, such as Essences, the introduction of the “Crafting Bench,” and the development of the “Heist” and “Delirium” league mechanics, many older currencies simply became redundant. These new systems offered players more reliable and predictable ways to modify their gear, which made older systems like the Regal Orb or Vaal Orb less appealing.
Additionally, POE’s community-driven approach to development played a role in identifying which currency systems were not working. Feedback from the player base helped the developers recognize when certain mechanics were causing frustration, confusion, or imbalances within the game’s economy. By removing or overhauling these outdated systems, the developers could focus on creating content that better served the needs and desires of the player community.
The Legacy of Removed Currency
Even though these removed currencies are no longer a part of POE’s current economic system, their legacy still lives on in the game’s design. The removal of these systems is a testament to POE’s commitment to evolution and improvement. While these currencies were once integral to the game, their removal allowed POE to move forward with more refined mechanics that align with the core principles of balance, player freedom, and system clarity.
Moreover, the experience of having these currencies in the game has influenced the development of new and better systems. Players learned from the flaws and limitations of these obsolete mechanics, which in turn helped shape the direction of future content and economy updates. The evolving nature of POE ensures that the game is always adapting to the needs of its community, shedding unnecessary elements and introducing fresh ideas that enhance the overall experience.
What Replaced These Currencies?
As POE moved away from some of these older currencies, new systems took their place, offering players more streamlined and engaging ways to interact with the game’s economy. For example, the introduction of the “Essences” system provided a more consistent and targeted way to craft powerful items without relying on randomness. The “Harvest” crafting system, which allowed players to modify items in highly specific ways, replaced the need for certain older currencies by offering more control over item properties.
The evolution of the game’s currency system also saw a greater emphasis on value-driven crafting and trading. Newer leagues introduced specialized currencies that were tied to specific content, allowing players to earn and spend these currencies in ways that were directly connected to their gameplay experience. These additions helped reinforce the overall theme of POE, where crafting and progression are intricately tied to the game’s core mechanics.
The Future of Currency in POE
As Path of Exile continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that currency will remain a core part of the game’s design. The removal of obsolete systems, however, highlights the importance of maintaining a fluid and adaptive economy that responds to player needs. The game’s developers have shown time and time again that they are willing to refine the currency system to ensure it serves the best interests of the community, allowing players to enjoy a more streamlined and balanced experience.
While the removed currencies may no longer be part of the game, they have paved the way for a more cohesive and engaging economic system. As new expansion packs and updates continue to reshape the game, it will be interesting to see how the economy evolves and what new forms of currency will emerge. In the ever-changing world of POE, the removal of old systems is just another step in the ongoing journey toward a more refined and enjoyable player experience.
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