Path of Exile 2 free to play weekend kicks off with no progression limits

ARPG enthusiasts on the fence about giving Path of Exile 2 a chance can now give it a try. The game is playable until September 1, 13:00 PDT, and can be downloaded on PC via Grinding Gear Games' client, Steam and Epic Games Store. Console players have to get it via their respective storefronts.

While Path of Exile 2 will be free-to-play at launch, those looking to get in on the action early will have to purchase an early access key. The free weekend follows the Third Edict update, which introduced a metric ton of changes to POE2's core mechanics, and even expanded on its story a little. Any progress made in the free weekend will get carried over should you decide to purchase the game.

The best part is, it will carry over to the final release remains unknown, but you're probably better off making a new character at that point. Grinding Gear Games says there's no limit to how much progress you can make, and theoretically experience all of what 0.3 has to offer. Realistically speaking, you won't even scratch the surface even with a 36-hour marathon.

Despite the massive overhaul, Path of Exile 2, at its core, is still one of the more challenging ARPGs to launch in recent history. It isn't particularly beginner-friendly, but there are plenty of resources that can help new players with their first build. Two days should be enough to decide if the game is for you, although some players can take a bit longer to get accustomed to it.