PoE 2 Full Release Date, Free-to-Play, New Content & Updates

Path of Exile 2 is one of the most anticipated action RPGs, with fans eagerly awaiting its full release. While the game is currently available in Early Access, many players are wondering when the complete version will launch and when it will become free-to-play as promised by Grinding Gear Games (GGG).

Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Path of Exile 2 full release date, what new content to expect, and will players can free to play the game and when.

When Is PoE 2 Full Release?

Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has not yet announced an exact date for the full release of Path of Exile 2. However, the game entered Early Access on December 6, 2024, and the developers have stated that this phase will last at least six months. Based on this timeline, the earliest possible full release would be mid-to-late 2025, though delays could push it further.

Given that Path of Exile 1 took about a year to transition from beta to full release, some players speculate that PoE 2 may follow a similar path. However, since the sequel is more ambitious in scope, a release in 2026 is also a possibility if additional development time is needed.

What to Expect in the PoE 2 Full Release?

The Early Access version of Path of Exile 2 includes:

• Three out of six planned campaign chapters

• An endgame system that allows players to engage in high-level content

• Six out of the twelve planned character classes

The full release will introduce:

• The remaining three campaign chapters, expanding the story and world

• Six additional character classes, providing more build diversity

• Further balance updates, bug fixes, and content expansions based on player feedback

GGG has confirmed that characters created in Early Access will not be wiped upon full release. Instead, they will be moved to an "Early Access League," separate from the standard game.

When Does PoE 2 Release for Free?

While Path of Exile 2 is marketed as a free-to-play game, access during Early Access requires a $30 purchase. This has led to some debate within the community about whether the game is truly free.

GGG has clarified that the $30 spent on Early Access will be converted into in-game currency at full release, which can be used for cosmetics or stash tabs. However, some players feel that this pricing model is more of a discounted release strategy rather than a true free-to-play model.

For those who want to play PoE 2 without spending money, the full free-to-play version will likely become available in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on when Early Access ends.

Should You Wait or Buy Early Access?

Deciding whether to buy into Early Access or wait for the full release depends on personal preference:

• If you want immediate access and don’t mind paying $30, Early Access offers a substantial amount of content.

• If you prefer to play for free and experience the complete game, waiting for the full release is the better option.

Regardless of when you decide to play, Path of Exile 2 is shaping up to be a major release in the ARPG genre.