Why the Druid Needs Talismans

The class was described as able to Path of Exile 2 Currency shapeshift freely without using traditional weapons. But how do you give a shapeshift build real item progression without weapon scaling?

Removing the weapon slot would eliminate one of the most important parts of the gear loop. It would also:

Reduce build diversity
Limit affix options
Remove a major chase item category
Make shapeshift forms difficult to balance

The introduction of Talismans solves every one of these issues.

Talisman:s Define Your Shapeshifted Stats

Just like Demon Form eventually received weapon scaling late in PoE1's development, the Druid's shapeshifting forms will likely inherit the stats of the equipped Talisman. This means:

Your damage scales with your Talisman, not your base human form.
Builds can specialize around hybrid Strength + Intelligence scaling.
Endgame crafting becomes meaningful for shapeshifters.

This also increases the value of Path of Exile 2 Currency, as high-end Talisman crafting will require a steady flow of materials. Once the Druid becomes widely played, the market may see players rushing to buy POE2 Currency to perfect their Talismans early in the patch.

Don't Expect Claws in 0.4

Some players assumed the Talisman leak meant more weapon types were coming soon, especially claws.

However, community insiders and GGG comments strongly suggest that:

Talismans are for the Druid
Claws are reserved for the Shadow

This means Claws likely won't appear until a later major patch-possibly Patch 0.5 or even the first league release in 2025. For now, the Druid and Talismans appear to POE 2 Orbs for sale be the starring features of Update 0.4.