Wondering if Path of Exile 2 will be free to play? With the highly anticipated sequel on the horizon, fans are eager to dive into its dark and dangerous world. However, accessing the Early Access Beta may not be as simple as you might think. If you’re wondering what it will take to play the game before its full release, we’ve got all the details right here.
POE 2
Path of Exile 2 is free to play! This was clarified over a year ago at EXILECON 2023 and the decision has not changed. However, while the game itself is free, the Early Access Beta comes with a bit of a catch.
If you want to get your hands on Path of Exile 2 early, you’ll need to qualify for the Beta using one of two methods:
First, you can buy one of the new Supporter Packs this will include a Beta key (these will be revealed in a stream during November 2024, according to a Twitter post from the official PoE account).
Alternatively, you can gain access by hitting a “lifetime support threshold” in the original Path of Exile. In other words, if you made a significant in-game purchases in Path of Exile 1you may qualify for Beta access without purchasing a Supporter Pack. No point playing Path of Exile 1 before POE 2 and spending a bunch of money if you just want access to the Beta – go with the Supporter Pack instead.
But be careful: the threshold for lifetime support is not small. According to a forum post on the official Path of Exile website, the required support level is “purchase of any advanced pack ($440 or more) or… total lifetime purchases (that) combine to $500 or more.” If you’re a dedicated gamer who’s invested in the game over the years, you might already be on the list. Otherwise, you might want to consider picking up one of those shiny new Supporter Packs!
Beta Entry and Key Access Information
When will the Beta start?
The Beta begins june 8 at 9am NZ (that will be June 7th at 2pm Pacific). So, mark your calendars if you want to be among the first to explore the new content!
How are players selected to enter the Beta?
Unlike previous Betas, where invites were sent out every five minutes, this time Grinding Gear Games plans to send out large waves of invites. They can invite 500-1000 players daily, silently and simultaneously. If you spent over $500 or purchased an advanced Supporter Pack in Path of Exile 1, you should be good to go. You will just have to wait for the invitation.
How will I find out if I have been selected for the Beta?
Once the Beta begins, select players will be notified in two ways: by email and by private message on the Path of Exile website. This ensures that both Steam-only users and those who visit the site frequently will be alerted.
Priority may be given to active players who have participated in recent leagues, but almost all are eligible, except for duplicate accounts. So, if you’re reading this, chances are you could be one of the lucky ones!
How will I know if my lifetime purchases meet the threshold?
To check your lifetime purchases, go to the Your Account section of the Path of Exile website and click Account Transactions. Purchases made with real money, such as Koala Pets, count towards the total. However, point purchases do not.
If your account has been transferred from Garena servers, those purchases do count, but they may not be automatically detected. If you don’t get access and think you should, just contact Path of Exile customer support for help
If I already have Beta access through lifetime purchases and buy a Supporter Pack, will I get an extra key?
Yes! If your account is already on the Beta participation list, and you purchase a Supporter Pack that includes a key, you will have a spare Beta key to give to a friend. Obviously, you’ll need to give the Supporter Pack key to your friend because your account will automatically be entered into the Beta with your lifetime purchases.
BETA Game Content Information
What content is included in the Beta?
The Beta will include Acts One through Seven immediately, and Act Eight will be added within two weeks. Acts Nine and Ten will be part of the full 3.0.0 release. You will also have a chance to try the new one Pantheon system and provide feedback on balance changes. However, don’t expect new abilities or unique items in the Beta just yet.
What links will be available in the Beta?
The Beta realm will feature Standard, Hardcore, Standard SSF, and Hardcore SSF leagues. However, the next Challenge League will not be part of the Beta. It will launch with the full 3.0.0 release.
Will there be wipes during the Beta?
yes, the Beta kingdom will be wiped outincluding at the end of the Beta. These wipes will not affect the main game, only the Beta characters. The developers will pay attention before wipes happen, especially if new content (like Act Eight) is added and they want fresh feedback.
Is the Map System part of the Beta?
Yes, the Map System is included, but only after you reach the end of the current Beta content. There’s a gap between finishing the Seventh Act and starting the first level of Maps, which could be difficult for new players — but there you have it!
Will the trading API be available during the Beta?
Yes, the trading API will be live, although it might take a few days after the Beta launch to get it up and running. Once it’s ready, community trading tools and websites can use the API to help players trade items during the Beta.
Is the Beta under NDA?
No, the Beta is not under NDA. You are free to share your gameplay, talk about your experiences and stream to your heart’s content. Just remember, it’s still a work in progress, so things may change as the game evolves.
Want to read more about POE 2 at Pro Game Guides? Check out Path of Exile 2 early access release date finally revealed and How to sign up for the Path of Exile 2 Closed Beta.
