Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) is still in development, and the early access version of the game has not been released yet. However, based on the information available and the current trajectory of the game's development, there are a few details we can discuss regarding the maximum level and how leveling will work in the early access version of PoE 2.

<h3>1. Max Level in Early Access</h3>
While specific details on the max level in the PoE 2 early access version are not fully confirmed, it is likely that the game will feature a level cap that is similar to the original Path of Exile at launch. In Path of Exile, the max level is 100, which has been the standard for many years. The early access version of PoE 2 will likely aim for a similar range, potentially between 90 and 100, at least for the early access content.

Since early access typically focuses on allowing players to experience the core mechanics, systems, and progression, it&rsquo;s possible that only a portion of the endgame content will be available in early access. As such, the max level cap might not be set at 100 initially, allowing players to progress through the campaign and possibly hit a level cap around 80 or 90.

However, it&rsquo;s important to note that in PoE 2, leveling up is tied to character progression in terms of completing the story, engaging in endgame content, and using the vast array of skill trees, ascendancies, and other systems. This means the max level will be balanced against the scope of the available content in early access.

<h3>2. Leveling Progression</h3>
The leveling progression in PoE 2 is expected to be similar to the original Path of Exile, with a focus on:

<ul>
<li>Main Story Campaign: Players will level up by completing the campaign, which will introduce them to the world, mechanics, and different skill gem setups. This campaign will be split across several acts or chapters, each featuring a variety of monsters, quests, and challenges.</li>
<li>Passive Skill Tree: As in the first game, the passive skill tree plays a huge role in character progression. You&rsquo;ll gain points to invest in this tree as you level up, allowing for significant customization of your character&rsquo;s stats and abilities. This tree will likely unlock more powerful synergies and skills as you reach higher levels.</li>
<li>Ascendancy System: Upon reaching certain milestones in the game (typically after completing certain acts), players will be able to choose their Ascendancy, a subclass that provides further specialization and additional gameplay bonuses. This system adds layers of progression as you continue to level up and experiment with different builds.</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Experience and Leveling Speed</h3>
As with most ARPGs, PoE 2 will offer a variety of ways to gain experience points, from completing quests and story objectives to defeating enemies and bosses. The early access version might limit some of the content, meaning that players might experience a different pace of leveling compared to the full version. However, since the game is designed for long-term engagement, leveling is expected to feel gradual and rewarding, with each level unlocking new skills, passive nodes, and other gameplay options.

<h3>4. Endgame and Post-Leveling Content</h3>
After reaching the max level (likely 90 or 100), the game will continue to provide ways for players to progress through endgame activities, which are a significant part of the Path of Exile experience. PoE 2 is expected to have robust endgame systems, including:

<ul>
<li>Challenge Leagues: These seasonal leagues will offer new mechanics and rewards for high-level players to engage with after reaching the level cap.</li>
<li>Atlas of Worlds: A multi-layered endgame system that provides a variety of maps, bosses, and challenges to explore. This system is designed to keep players engaged after reaching the level cap by offering randomized content and high-difficulty encounters.</li>
<li>Crafting and Trade: Players can continue progressing through crafting and trading, refining their gear and optimizing their builds after reaching the level cap.</li>
</ul>
<h3>5. Future Cap</h3>
Once PoE 2 launches fully, the max level cap could potentially increase beyond 100, just as the original Path of Exile did over time with expansions and content updates. However, for the early access version, it&rsquo;s likely that players will see a cap close to level 90 or 100, with the full release expanding on this.

The max level in PoE 2 early access will likely be around level 90, with the full release potentially allowing players to hit the traditional level 100 cap. Early access will focus on core mechanics, story content, and progression, but the leveling speed and cap could be adjusted based on player feedback and balancing. Regardless of the exact level cap, poe2 items will offer a robust endgame experience that keeps players engaged after reaching the max level, focusing on challenges, leagues, and in-depth character builds. Keep in mind that the game&rsquo;s level cap and progression mechanics will evolve over time with new updates and expansions, so early access is just a glimpse into the game&rsquo;s final progression systems.