Path of Exile 2 Full Release Date: When Is PoE 2 Version 1.0 Coming Out?

The wait for the full release of Path of Exile 2 is almost over. After nearly two years in Early Access, Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has officially confirmed when its highly anticipated action RPG sequel will launch as a complete game.

Path of Exile 2 will officially release on December 11, 2026 (PST). The launch marks the arrival of version 1.0, the end of paid Early Access, and the transition to a free-to-play model.

The announcement was made during Gamescom Opening Night Live on August 25, 2026, alongside a new trailer showcasing the upcoming release.

PoE 2 Full Release Date Confirmed

Grinding Gear Games has confirmed that Path of Exile 2 version 1.0 will launch on Friday, December 11, 2026, according to Pacific Standard Time.

The official announcement replaces earlier community predictions that suggested different release windows throughout 2026 or even 2027.

Here are the most important release details:

GGG’s official Steam listing explicitly identifies December 11 as the date Path of Exile 2 leaves Early Access. The developer’s announcement also confirms that the game becomes free to play on that date.

The exact worldwide launch hour has not yet been confirmed. Therefore, players in Europe, Asia, and Oceania should check the official launch countdown closer to release, as the corresponding local date may be December 12.

What Is Coming With PoE 2 Version 1.0?

The full release is much more than a routine league update. Version 1.0 represents a major milestone for Path of Exile 2, bringing additional campaign content, playable classes, endgame activities, and gameplay improvements.

1. Two Additional Campaign Acts

One of the biggest changes expected with the full release is the completion of the main story campaign.

The full campaign is designed to contain six acts. With four acts available during the later Early Access period, the remaining two acts are planned for version 1.0.

These additions will give players more areas to explore, bosses to defeat, and storylines to experience before moving into the endgame.

GGG has also indicated that the completed game will contain significantly more content than its original Early Access build.

2. New Duelist Class and Sword Combat

The Duelist is among the major additions announced for Path of Exile 2’s full release.

This character class emphasizes sword-based melee combat, offering a different playstyle for players who prefer close-range attacks.

The class announcement is especially significant because swords have been a highly anticipated addition to Path of Exile 2’s weapon system.

The Duelist will expand character-building opportunities and provide new combinations of skills, equipment, and combat strategies.

3. Expanded Endgame Content

Endgame progression is one of the most important aspects of the Path of Exile franchise.

Version 1.0 is planned to introduce more content for players who complete the campaign, including additional areas, enemies, bosses, and items.

GGG has already invested heavily in improving the endgame experience during Early Access.

The Return of the Ancients expansion, for example, substantially reworked post-campaign progression, helping prepare the game for its full release.

However, the complete list of version 1.0 endgame changes has not yet been published.

4. More Skills, Items, and Character Builds

Build diversity is central to Path of Exile 2.

The developers plan to expand the selection of skill gems, items, and character classes as the game approaches its completed version.

Players can expect additional opportunities to experiment with different weapons, combat skills, support gems, and equipment combinations.

The precise balance adjustments and new item mechanics will become clearer when Grinding Gear Games releases the full version 1.0 patch notes.

Will Path of Exile 2 Be Free to Play at Full Release?

Yes. Path of Exile 2 will become free to play on December 11, 2026.

Players will no longer need to purchase an Early Access Supporter Pack to access the base game.

During Early Access, players generally needed an eligible access key or a paid Supporter Pack to enter the game. The standard Early Access package was available for approximately $29.99.

Once version 1.0 launches, anyone on a supported platform will be able to download and play Path of Exile 2 without paying an upfront purchase price.

Optional in-game purchases and supporter packages will remain part of the game’s monetization system.

Which Platforms Will Support PoE 2 Version 1.0?

Grinding Gear Games has confirmed the following platforms for the full release:

• PC (Windows, including Steam and the standalone client)
• PlayStation 5
• Xbox Series X|S

Path of Exile 2 also supports multiplayer gameplay, including online cooperative play for up to six players.

The December 11 launch is planned for PC and consoles, meaning players on different supported systems can look forward to the same major release milestone.

Will Early Access Characters Carry Over to PoE 2 Version 1.0?

Character progression is another major concern for existing players.

Path of Exile uses a league-based progression system, with new leagues typically introducing fresh economies and opportunities to create new characters.

Players should distinguish between several things: existing Early Access characters, permanent character storage, new league progression, and the version 1.0 economy.

A fresh league economy does not necessarily mean all existing characters or purchases are permanently deleted.

However, Grinding Gear Games has not yet provided every detail of the final 1.0 character migration and economy transition.

Players should watch for an official announcement before assuming that all Early Access progress will transfer into the new launch league unchanged.

Should You Play PoE 2 Now or Wait Until Full Release?

Whether to start playing before December 11 depends on what you want from the game.

Playing during Early Access makes sense for players who want to learn the combat system, experiment with character builds, understand crafting mechanics, and explore the existing endgame.

The experience can provide valuable preparation for the official launch, especially for players interested in progressing efficiently when the new version arrives.

Waiting for version 1.0 is a reasonable choice for newcomers who would rather experience the completed campaign and additional content without purchasing an Early Access package.

Since Path of Exile 2 will become free to play, waiting also eliminates the need to pay simply to access the base game.

Is PoE 2 Version 1.0 the Final Update?

No. Version 1.0 marks the game’s full release, not the end of development.

Grinding Gear Games has established a long-term content model through the original Path of Exile, which continues to receive expansions and challenge leagues.

Path of Exile 2 is expected to follow a similar live-service approach, with future updates expanding gameplay systems, seasonal content, character-building options, and endgame activities.

GGG has also indicated that the original Path of Exile and Path of Exile 2 will continue as separate games rather than replacing one with the other.

The December 2026 launch is therefore the beginning of the game’s post-Early Access development cycle.

PoE 2 Full Release Date FAQ

When is the Path of Exile 2 full release date?

Path of Exile 2 version 1.0 is officially scheduled for December 11, 2026 (PST). Grinding Gear Games announced the date at Gamescom on August 25, 2026.

Is PoE 2 releasing in 2026 or 2027?

PoE 2 is officially scheduled to release in 2026. Earlier predictions pointing to 2027 are outdated following the August 2026 announcement.

When does PoE 2 Early Access end?

Early Access is scheduled to end on December 11, 2026, when version 1.0 launches.

Will PoE 2 be free after Early Access?

Yes. The full version will be free to play on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

What new content will PoE 2 version 1.0 include?

Confirmed and planned additions include the Duelist class, two more campaign acts, and expanded skills, items, character options, and endgame content. Full patch notes have not yet been released.

What time will PoE 2 version 1.0 launch?

The official release date is December 11, 2026, in Pacific Standard Time. An exact worldwide launch hour has not yet been announced.

Can I register for PoE 2 full release rewards?

Yes. Grinding Gear Games has opened a registration campaign offering release-related news and milestone rewards. Players can visit the PoE 2 registration page for further information.