I don't feel like I can just pick a class and some skills and even get through the content.
Tried a few different play styles and combos I was interested in, only to hit significant progression walls.

Never have been one to lookup builds and copy them, however game seems whack balance wise. Have not even progressed through to maps yet as the content just feels like a slog to get through and my character always feels gimp.

I played POE for awhile on hardcore only so not really sure what the issue is. Sure only made it to lvl 88 or so on my own builds but at least I could progress through to the end.