Path of Exile 2's China Release: Why Tencent's F2P Proposal Was Rejected

• Introduction
• The F2P Model in China
• GGG's Response to Tencent
• Potential Impact of a China Release
• Conclusion

Introduction

Path of Exile 2, one of the most anticipated action role-playing games (ARPGs), has stirred discussions regarding its availability in China. Recently, Jonathan Rogers, the Game Director, remarked that the game is not yet officially accessible to Chinese players. This statement has raised eyebrows, especially given that Grinding Gear Games (GGG) operates under Tencent, a major contender in the gaming sector.

The F2P Model in China

It's no secret that within the Chinese gaming market, the free-to-play (F2P) model is prevalent. Tencent's interest in establishing Path of Exile 2 as a free-to-play title in China aligns with their success in monetizing other games through microtransactions. Game Director Jonathan Rogers mentioned that Tencent had proposed this model, likely to increase player numbers significantly.

However, the F2P model has implications for both player trust and revenue streams, especially when considering early access fees that many players have already paid to enjoy the game. Microtransactions typically dominate F2P games, raising concerns over game balance and fairness.

GGG's Response to Tencent

In response to Tencent's proposal, GGG firmly rejected the idea of making Path of Exile 2 free-to-play in China. Rogers emphasized that it would be unfair to early supporters who invested in early access. He underscored this sentiment stating, "It would be so unfair to the rest of the world." The game remarkably reached a peak concurrent player count of approximately 890,000 globally, with over 570,000 of those players on Steam alone, all of whom paid for early access.

Potential Impact of a China Release

The interest in Path of Exile 2 from Chinese gamers is palpable, with many already accessing the game through international servers and VPNs. The launch numbers indicate that a release in China could potentially drive player counts beyond one million. Jonathan noted that a tailored pricing strategy for the Chinese market could serve as an incentive to attract more players.

With the upcoming Path of Exile 2 League anticipated around late July or early August 2025, this could provide a strategic moment for GGG to maximize engagement, especially if they incorporate insights gained from early access feedback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Tencent's proposal for a free-to-play model might seem attractive, GGG's dedication to fairness for its player base is commendable. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial for developers to find the right balance between monetization strategies and player satisfaction. For those interested in purchasing items or currency required in Path of Exile 2, you can explore options on ItemD2R.com.

For more Path of Exile 2 insights, check out:

• Path of Exile 2: The Best Strategies for Currency Accumulation
• Top Items Every Player Should Own in Path of Exile 2