PoE 2 Steam issues.

Hello,

I create a PoE1 account some time ago. I am able to play PoE1 just fine using my login info. Then, when PoE2 EA came out for pre-order, I purchased it on their website. I am able to play PoE2 on standalone client just fine.

I used the "claim" option to claim the key for Steam. I downloaded it and tried to play it. I get the error message saying that I do not have access to EA. I thought that game is using an universal login system.

Anyways, I learned that I need to link my Steam account to my PoE account. I tried doing that but I get the error message: "You cannot add this login method to this account. You cannot merge two accounts with the same login methods."

NOTE: I use 2 different emails: one email is for my PoE account, and another one is for my Steam account.

So, do I need to purchase a game from Steam in order to play from Steam? I mean, what is the point of Steam Claim option, then?

I know you guys are busy with your support tickets, but how long does it take, on average, to get a respond from GGG via email (support)? Plus, how long does it take for them to respond here? Maybe my "issue" that I have, needs an easy fix, that could be fixed here.