Path of Exile 2 Goes Free After Early Access Ends, Announced at Gamescom
Grinding in the dark is about to get a lot cheaper: Path of Exile 2 has a new release date that marks the end of its paid Early Access, followed by a free-to-play start. The announcement landed during the Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 stream, where the news reportedly sparked loud crowd reaction even through the broadcast.
Release window, platforms, and monetization shift
| Milestone | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Paid Early Access ends | 11 December 2026 | Free-to-play begins afterward |
| Free-to-play start | 11 December 2026 | Available for everyone |
At Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026, a firm timeline was shared for when players can finally jump in without paying upfront. The key change: Early Access will remain paid until the release date, and then the game will become free for everyone who hasn’t purchased access yet.
The announcement was paired with a new trailer, which quickly became a hot spot in the community. Viewers highlighted that swords have now been confirmed, and they also reacted to what they described as “endless” spins enabled by a two-handed sword called the Montante—portrayed as a notably large and heavy sword type.
For anyone who’s been waiting to start, the takeaway is simple: if you want free access, mark 11 December 2026 on your calendar. Until then, the game continues to operate under its paid Early Access model.
