Path of Exile 2 is opening its doors once again with a highly anticipated Free Weekend, launching alongside The Last of the Druids update. This massive patch introduces the game's newest character class, deep shapeshifting mechanics, performance upgrades, and broad system improvements.

Below is a complete guide on how to access the free weekend, how downloading works, platform details, and what happens when the event ends.

Path of Exile 2 Free Weekend Dates

·Start: December 12, 2025

·End: December 15, 2025

·Availability: Free across all supported platforms

·Content Restrictions: None - players can access the full game

Whether you're interested in exploring the new Druid shapeshifting forms, testing new builds, or diving deep into the new league mechanics, the full experience is unlocked during the event.

How to Play Path of Exile 2 for Free

Accessing Path of Exile 2 during the free weekend is simple. Because the game is currently in paid early access, the free window gives players a rare opportunity to experience the entire title with zero limitations.

1. Download the Game on Your Platform

Path of Exile 2 can be downloaded from multiple sources:

PC Platforms

·Steam

·Epic Games Store

·Official PoE Website (standalone client)

Simply visit your preferred storefront, search for Path of Exile 2, and select Download once the free weekend begins.

Important: Players who do not already own early access cannot pre-load. You must wait until December 12 to begin the download.

Console Platforms

If your console supports PoE2 early access, the free weekend applies there as well. Navigate to the game page and claim the free download during the event.

2. Make Sure You Have Enough Storage Space

Path of Exile 2 is a massive game due to its cinematic campaign, detailed environments, and advanced combat animation system.

·Download Size: ~90 GB

·Total Required Disk Space: ~110 GB

Before the weekend begins, make sure you have enough room on your drive to avoid delays during installation.

3. Patch 0.4 Performance Improvements

One of the biggest concerns early on was performance. With Patch 0.4, GGG has implemented strong optimization updates, including:

·Reduced enemy counts on screen

·Improved asset streaming

·Better CPU and GPU load balancing

·Fixes for major FPS drops

If you previously tried PoE2 and struggled with performance issues, this free weekend is the perfect chance to see the improvements firsthand.

What's New in "The Last of the Druids" Update?

The free weekend launches alongside a major update that introduces new gameplay features and league content:

1. New Class: The Druid

Players can shapeshift between multiple primal beast forms, merging spellcasting, melee combat, and animal transformations.

2. New League Mechanics

More items, new crafting possibilities, and improved pacing across campaign acts.

3. Shapeshifting Combat System

Switch forms fluidly mid-fight to chain combos and adapt to enemy types.

4. System and UI Improvements

Better map tools, cleaner skill progression feedback, and class rebalances.

All new content is fully accessible during the free weekend, making this the perfect chance to experiment with builds or test item synergies-especially those involving crafted rares or high-value Path of Exile 2 Currency.

What Happens After the Free Weekend Ends?

Once the free weekend ends on December 15, players who do not own an early access pack will no longer be able to log in.

1. Your Account and Progress Will Be Saved

Everything tied to your account-including:

·Characters

·Loot

·Stash tabs

·Progression

·Cosmetics

…remains saved. If you eventually purchase PoE2 early access, your characters will be waiting for you.

2. Characters Move to Standard League After Each Season

Just like Path of Exile 1, PoE2 uses a league-based progression structure.

That means:

·When a league ends, ALL seasonal characters move to Standard League

·This applies whether you played during the free weekend or own early access

·To play the newest league after the free weekend, you'll need to start a new character

Your characters remain fully usable in Standard, but league progress always resets with a fresh start.

3. You'll Need Early Access to Keep Playing

After December 15, you must purchase an early access pack to play again unless:

·Another free weekend is announced

·You wait for the full free-to-play launch (planned for the future)

If you enjoyed the new systems or want to experiment with more builds (especially if you plan to buy POE2 Currency or invest in high-efficiency item crafting setups), this may be the perfect time to commit.

Final Thoughts: The Best Time to Try PoE2

The Path of Exile 2 free weekend from December 12-15 is the ideal time to jump into the game-especially with the major improvements brought by Patch 0.4 and the exciting new content of The Last of the Druids. Whether you're curious about the Druid class, want to test performance on your system, or simply want a preview before committing to early access, this event offers the complete experience at no cost.