How to Play Path of Exile 2 for the Free Weekend
Path of Exile 2: The Third Edict is just around the corner, and the hype is real. Patch 0.3 arrives on August 29, 2025, bringing not only Act 4 and brand-new Interlude quests but also the game's first official League, Rise of the Abyssal. Alongside these major updates, Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has announced something equally exciting: the first-ever free weekend for Path of Exile 2.
For many players who have been waiting to try the game without buying into early access, this is the perfect opportunity. In this article, we'll break down exactly how to play Path of Exile 2 during the free weekend, what rewards you can unlock, and what to expect if you're diving in for the first time.
When is the Path of Exile 2 Free Weekend?
The PoE 2 free weekend begins on August 29, 2025, at 1 pm PST and runs until September 1, 2025. For three days, players can download and play the full version of Path of Exile 2 at no cost.
Unlike some limited-time demos, there are no content restrictions. You'll have full access to:
·The entire campaign (Acts 1-4, including new Interludes).
·Endgame progression is available in the current build.
·The Rise of the Abyssal League mechanics.
·Multiplayer and co-op functionality.
This free trial is essentially the same game that early access players are enjoying-minus the paywall.
How to Download Path of Exile 2 for Free
Playing Path of Exile 2 during the free weekend is simple, but the steps depend on your platform of choice.
On PC (Steam or Epic Games Store):
1. Open your Steam or Epic Games launcher.
2. Search for Path of Exile 2 in the store.
3. Click Download once the free weekend goes live at 1 pm PST, August 29.
On Console (Xbox Series X|S or PlayStation 5):
1. Visit the Microsoft Store (Xbox) or PlayStation Store (PS5).
2. Search for Path of Exile 2.
3. Select Download Free Trial (available during the event window).
Standalone Client:
If you prefer avoiding third-party platforms, GGG also provides a standalone client:
1. Create a free account at the official Path of Exile website.
2. Download and install the standalone game client.
3. Log in with your account and start playing once the event begins.
Important: There is no pre-load option for the free weekend. The download (over 90 GB on PC) will only be available starting at 1 pm PST, so ensure you have enough storage space ahead of time.
Free Weekend Rewards in Path of Exile 2
To make the free weekend more enticing, GGG is offering exclusive cosmetic rewards for those who participate. These rewards unlock Path of Exile 2 Items simply by playing through the campaign:
·Exile's Hood - Earned after reaching the Clearfell Encampment.
·Exile's Staff Skin - Unlocked by defeating the Rotten Druid in the Grim Tangle (Act One).
·Exile's Cloak - Awarded after defeating Count Geonor at the end of Act One.
These cosmetics will remain permanently on your account-even if you only play during the free weekend and do not purchase early access afterward.
What Happens After the Free Weekend?
Once the free weekend ends on September 1, your account progress will remain saved. However, to continue playing, you'll need to either:
·Purchase the Early Access Pack ($30) - This grants permanent access to Path of Exile 2 and includes supporter perks.
·Spend $30 or more on in-game purchases - If you buy microtransactions worth at least $30, you can email GGG's support team to request an early access key.
If you don't purchase access, you'll need to wait for the game's full release, which is still some time away. Since GGG updates Path of Exile 2 every four months with large content patches, it may take a while before the full free-to-play version is launched.
Why is GGG Hosting a Free Weekend?
Grinding Gear Games has stated that this free weekend serves multiple purposes:
1. Server Stress Test - With nearly one million players joining the early access launch, the studio wants to test how well servers handle a massive influx of players ahead of future expansions.
2. Player Acquisition - Free weekends are a tried-and-true way to get new players invested. Many who try PoE 2 for free may stick around afterward.
3. Community Engagement - Cosmetic rewards give even early access veterans a reason to participate, ensuring vibrant activity throughout the event.
Tips for Playing Path of Exile 2 During the Free Weekend
Since the free weekend is limited to just three days, here are some tips to help you make the most of your time:
1. Focus on One Character
Path of Exile 2 offers tons of build variety, but starting too many characters will spread your progress thin. Pick one class and stick with it until the end of Act One (at least).
2. Grab the Free Rewards Early
The Exile's Hood, Staff Skin, and Cloak are permanent cosmetics. Even if you don't plan to grind hard, at least progress through Act One to claim these free items.
3. Play with Friends
Path of Exile shines in multiplayer. Teaming up with friends allows faster progress through Acts and makes tough boss fights easier.
4. Manage Your Time
The campaign alone can take dozens of hours. If you want to experience both the story and the endgame, buy Path of Exile 2 Items that you need to accelerate your sessions.
5. Optimize Performance
With a hefty 90 GB install size, PoE 2 can be demanding on hardware. Make sure you update drivers, close background apps, and tweak in-game graphics for smoother performance.
Why You Should Try Path of Exile 2
Even if you're not planning to buy early access, the free weekend is the perfect chance to get hands-on experience with one of the most ambitious ARPGs in years. Here's why it's worth playing:
·Massive Campaign Expansion - With Act 4 launching, players now have access to dozens of hours of story-driven content.
·Deep Build Customization - Path of Exile 2 expands upon the iconic skill tree and adds new keystone mechanics, making every build feel unique.
·Rise of the Abyssal League - League mechanics always shake up gameplay. This one introduces new enemies, loot, and strategies.
·Persistent Progress - Any progress you make, including cosmetics and characters, carries over if you later decide to buy early access.
Final Thoughts
The Path of Exile 2 free weekend (Aug 29-Sept 1, 2025) is an unmissable chance for newcomers and veterans alike. With full access to the campaign, endgame, and the first league, plus permanent cosmetic rewards, there's no reason not to jump in.
Whether you're curious about trying out Act 4, testing the Rise of the Abyssal League, or just experiencing GGG's vision for the next-generation ARPG, this event is the best opportunity yet. Download it on PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, clear some hard drive space, and get ready to dive into the dark, punishing world of Wraeclast.