Ex-Marathon lead says Path of Exile is "the most freeform" ARPG when it comes to buildcrafting

gamesradar.com Oct 20, 2026

Ex-Marathon lead says Path of Exile is “the most freeform” ARPG when it comes to buildcrafting

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Oct 20, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Former Valorant and Marathon director Joe Ziegler revealed that he logged 3,437 hours in Path of Exile, praising its unparalleled buildcrafting depth. Ziegler described the game as the most freeform ARPG, noting its wide experimentation and “Rube Goldberg” mechanics that allow players to craft highly effective builds, from Totem to one‑button Whirlwind. He contrasted the original with Path of Exile 2, citing the latter’s tighter action focus. Ziegler’s endorsement highlights the game’s appeal to seasoned ARPG veterans seeking complex, creative gameplay.

💡 Why It Matters

· Ziegler’s praise underscores Path of Exile’s standing as a benchmark for build‑centric design, influencing how future ARPGs balance depth and accessibility.

Capsules Gaming

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