Path of Exile 2

Path of Exile 2: Everything You Need to Know About Early Access and Free-to-Play Release

Path of Exile 2 has been one of the most anticipated sequels in the action RPG genre, and now, it’s finally here—kind of. While the game will ultimately be free-to-play, we’re currently in a phase of early access, which has its own rules and perks.

Early Access: A Gateway to Path of Exile 2

Launched on December 6, 2024, Path of Exile 2’s early access phase is open for players who meet certain requirements. Unlike a traditional beta or pre-launch event, early access isn’t entirely open to everyone. You’ll need to either purchase a supporter pack or make a set amount of microtransactions in the original Path of Exile to gain access. For longtime players who have already invested in the first game, this is a great opportunity to jump right in.

When Will the Full Release Arrive?

While the developers have confirmed that Path of Exile 2 will eventually be free-to-play, the full free-to-play release date is still up in the air. The early access phase is expected to last “at least six months,” which means we’re likely looking at a full release sometime in the middle of 2025. However, as the developers themselves have hinted, it could extend beyond that timeframe depending on development progress. As of now, it’s clear that the goal is to offer a complete and polished game to the community before making it freely accessible.

Key Details About Early Access and the Free-to-Play Model

• Early Access Requirements: As mentioned, to get into early access, players must either purchase a supporter pack or make specific in-game purchases (microtransactions) in Path of Exile 1. So, if you’ve already made purchases or invested in the first game, you’re one step closer to exploring Path of Exile 2.
• Free-to-Play Release Date: No exact date yet, but the expectation is that the full free-to-play launch will happen after the early access period ends, sometime in late 2025—or maybe even later.
• No Pay-to-Win Mechanics: The developers have assured the community that Path of Exile 2 will not feature pay-to-win elements. Players will have the same chances to succeed in-game regardless of whether they spend money or not, focusing instead on skill and strategy.
• Shared Purchases Across Both Games: If you’ve spent money on cosmetics, supporter packs, or other purchases in Path of Exile 1, those purchases will carry over to Path of Exile 2. This is a great bonus for players who have been supporting the franchise for years.

What Can You Expect From Path of Exile 2?

In terms of gameplay, Path of Exile 2 promises to expand on the franchise’s already rich world, offering new storylines, classes, and a fresh experience for both new and returning players. The game will maintain the core elements that fans love, like the deep skill customization system and the challenging combat mechanics, but with improved graphics, expanded content, and a larger universe to explore.

The Future of Path of Exile

As Path of Exile continues to grow, Path of Exile 2 represents the next step in the evolution of the franchise. With the early access launch underway, the game is getting closer to its full release. For now, players will have the opportunity to dive into the game’s early stages and influence its development while enjoying a new chapter in the beloved series.

So, whether you’re a veteran of Path of Exile or a newcomer to the franchise, there’s a lot to look forward to as the journey unfolds!

Catch you in Wraeclast!

Conrad