Is Path of Exile 2 Free to Play?

Path of Exile 2 is the newest addition to the action role-playing game (RPG) genre and also the sequel to Path of Exile one. The game is shaping up to be the new best thing in the top-down RPG genre, trampling over other big titles such as Diablo IV. And the best thing? Path of Exile 2 is expected to launch as a free-to-play game on its full release.

Is Path of Exile 2 Free to Play?

Yes, Path of Exile 2 will be free to download and play at launch. Players will be able to dive into the game without any cost whatsoever, be that on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X | S. That being said, this only applies to the official release of the game. The early access for Path of Exile 2 comes with a $30 price tag and is released on December 6, 2024. Given that there is still no official release date for the final version of Path of Exile 2, your only way to try the game out early is by purchasing into the early access, which, as we’ve already mentioned, is not free.

The early access will also not feature the entirety of the game, only giving players the chance to try out 3 campaign acts, 6 classes, 50 bosses, and some of the endgame content, but definitely not the full experience you will get at launch. It is mostly catered to fans of the game who have been supporting Path of Exile and is, as its name implies, early access. Those of you who are new to the series might want to hold off on purchasing the early access and wait for the full release of the game, which Grinding Gear Games has promised will be completely free to play.

Micro-Transactions

Although Path of Exile 2 will be free to play, it is worth noting that the game will feature various micro-transactions to support itself in the long term. While version updates, seasons, and patches will not require you to spend a dime, some in-game goods, such as cosmetic upgrades and stash tabs, will be available for purchase in the game for real-life currency. These upgrades will not directly improve the power of your characters, and they hold no gameplay advantages. They are simply small quality-of-life upgrades that will aim to make your life a bit easier. Grinding Gear Games has noted that they will do their best to remain fully free-to-play and will never stoop to a pay-to-win model.