Path of Exile 2 Nears Full Launch as Developer Confirms Final Early Access Patch
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Grinding Gear Games has confirmed that the upcoming Return of the Ancients patch will be the final major update for Path of Exile 2 before it exits early access later this year, leading into a free-to-play full release.
The road to version 1.0 is officially in its final stretch for Grinding Gear Games and their ambitious action role-playing sequel. During a recent developer livestream detailing the upcoming 0.5 update titled Return of the Ancients, game director Jonathan Rogers confirmed that this will be the final major patch before the game leaves early access. While the studio stopped short of providing an exact calendar day for the full release, they pointed toward ExileCon in New Zealand this November as the primary venue for the final date reveal, signaling a launch window in late 2026.
Players diving into the 1.0 release can expect a massive wave of content, though a few compromises are being made to hit the finish line. Rogers noted that while most of the planned base classes will make the cut, all 12 might not be fully ready by launch day. However, every class currently in the game is guaranteed to receive their full set of ascendencies. Quality of life features are also a major focus for the upcoming transition, including expanded language localization and seamless on-the-fly switching between keyboard and controller inputs.
For the broader community and newcomers who have been watching from the sidelines, the most significant change arrives with the official launch. Once the title exits early access, Pathof Exile 2 will transition to a completely free-to-play model. This shift opens the door for a massive influx of players across platforms, setting the stage for what looks to be a major milestone in the ongoing ARGP landscape. Original reporting comes via Polygon, with full details available in their coverage.
Tags: Path of Exile 2, PC Gaming, ARPG, Grinding Gear Games, Free-to-Play
Original article: Polygon