Path of Exile 2

A dark action RPG still in Early Access

Path of Exile 2 is Grinding Gear Games’ action role-playing sequel, set in the dark continent of Wraeclast. It is playable now, but the Steam store still labels the game Early Access, so its systems and content remain subject to change. GGG says version 1.0 is scheduled for 11 December 2026 (PST); that is a future date as of this guide’s 5 November check, not a launch that has already happened.

The official Steam description presents the game as a character-building action RPG with online co-op for up to six players. The current Early Access build includes a substantial campaign of four acts and endgame content, according to GGG’s store-page FAQ. The planned full campaign spans six acts, so readers should distinguish the finished-game description from what can be played in Early Access today.

Builds, skills and progression

The central appeal is making a character build from skills, support gems, equipment and passive choices. GGG describes a large shared skill system and multiple character classes, each with a different starting focus. That creates room to experiment, but also means a first character may take time to understand. The game is built around learning how skills, gear and defenses combine rather than following one fixed route through every encounter.

GGG’s page describes skill gems that grant active abilities and support gems that modify how those abilities behave. Its systems also include a passive skill tree and equipment choices that can change a build’s strengths. Those are broad descriptions of the game’s design, not a promise that every item or skill remains unchanged. Early Access patch notes are the right source for current balance and league mechanics.

What the full release is expected to add

In its 25 August announcement, GGG said 1.0 will bring the Duelist, the remaining two acts, additional classes and Ascendancy options, and more endgame content. It describes this as the full release and says the game will then be free-to-play. That announcement is the clearest official answer to the claim that Path of Exile 2 is leaving Early Access on 11 December: the date and the free-to-play plan are confirmed by the developer, while the release is still in the future.

The current build also receives updates before 1.0. The 0.5.5 patch notes describe the Forbidden Rites event league and changes to Ritual, Trials, endgame systems and other parts of the game. GGG scheduled that update and event for 4 September 2026. These temporary leagues can start a fresh economy and introduce limited challenges, so a returning player should check the patch notes for what is active rather than relying on a guide written for an earlier build.

Access, price and ratings

The full release is planned to be free-to-play, but the current Early Access route is different. Steam lists an Early Access Supporter Pack that provides an access key and 300 Points. The US listing did not expose a current numeric price when checked, so this guide does not guess at the cost. Check the official store before buying, since access packs and supporter products can change during development.

Steam lists the PC version and up-to-six-player co-op. PlayStation lists the PS5 version, while Xbox Wire describes the Xbox console version launching alongside PC. Steam dates the Early Access release to December 2024. PlayStation’s official product page lists an ESRB Mature 17+ rating for the PS5 version, with Blood and Gore, Nudity, Violence, In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items) and Users Interact. The OpenCritic page currently shows 88/100 from 19 critic reviews; those reviews discuss the Early Access build and should not be read as a review of the not-yet-released 1.0 version.

Is Path of Exile 2 for you?

The game may suit players who like challenging action combat, long-term character planning and repeated experiments with equipment and skills. Co-op is available if you want to progress with friends, while solo play is also listed. If you would rather wait for a more complete campaign or a free entry point, GGG’s announced 1.0 date gives you a concrete milestone to watch.

Until then, treat current systems as work in progress. GGG says it will continue monitoring feedback and delivering updates during Early Access, and its official forums hold patch notes and announcements. Check the latest notes before planning around a specific skill, boss or league. The 11 December 2026 date, free-to-play plan and Duelist reveal are supported by GGG’s own announcement; the available build and supporter access are described by the official Steam listing.