After all, in Wraeclast, survival has always favored the prepared.

Early Access Economy: How Skill Nerfs Are Shaping PoE 2’s Trading Scene

Path of Exile 2 entered early access with POE2 Currency enormous anticipation and a staggering variety of skill options. However, only weeks into the launch, the game's economy is already being reshaped—not by new content drops, but by nerfs to a few overpowered skills. For players engaged in trading, crafting, and market speculation, understanding the ripple effects of these nerfs is critical to staying profitable and competitive in PoE 2’s rapidly evolving marketplace.

The First Wave of Nerfs

GGG’s balance team wasted no time in dialing back some of the most dominant skills in early access. Supercharged Slam, a channeling melee skill capable of one-shotting entire packs, was among the first casualties. Its maximum damage was slashed by 60%, and its charge time was adjusted to reduce burst potential. Similarly, Magnetic Salvo—a fan-favorite spell known for its explosive AoE destruction—was tuned down with a 40% reduction to its explosion power.

Though necessary for long-term balance, these nerfs had immediate and dramatic effects on the economy. Players abandoned their now-underpowered builds, dumping gear, support gems, and passive skill items onto the market, flooding supply and cratering prices.

Market Instability: Winners and Losers

As expected, gear tailored to the nerfed skills lost value almost overnight. Supercharged Slam-focused weapons, like high-phys two-handed maces with slam bonuses, saw a steep drop in price as demand evaporated. Similarly, accessories offering bonuses to projectile spells or elemental explosions—previously essential for Magnetic Salvo builds—became much harder to POE 2 Currency Orbs for sale sell at premium rates.