Grinding Gear Games is preparing to shake up the world of Path of Exile 2 with The Third Edict, launching on August 29, 2025 across PC, Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and the Epic Games Store. This latest expansion delivers some of the most ambitious updates yet, including revamped support gems, brand-new crafting systems, 25 endgame maps, and the long-awaited Asynchronous Trade system. Best of all, players can try it all for free during a special Free Weekend running from August 29 to September 1.
Support Gem Overhaul and Lineage Supports
One of the biggest changes in The Third Edict is the removal of the one-per-build restriction on support gems, opening the door to far greater experimentation with character builds. Support gems now feature multiple levels, meaning players can continue to upgrade them through the campaign for stronger, scalable builds.
Even more exciting are the new Lineage Support Gems—powerful, rare enhancements dropped from specific bosses. With 40 unique Lineage Supports to discover, these gems are designed to redefine endgame strategies and offer advanced customization options for players chasing peak builds.
Sprinting Across Wraeclast
All character classes now gain access to Sprint, activated by holding down the dodge roll button. While this makes out-of-combat navigation faster and smoother, there’s a risk: take a hit while sprinting, and you’ll be knocked down.
Balance, Crafting, and New Bounties
The expansion also brings sweeping balance changes to classes, ascendancies, notables, and skills. Alongside these updates comes a major crafting overhaul, with higher-tiered currency items that empower item upgrades.
One standout example is the Greater Orb of Transmutation, which upgrades Normal items into Magic items with guaranteed minimum-level modifiers. Add to that a range of new unique items—some exclusive to the Abyss League—and players can expect to craft some of the most powerful gear in Path of Exile 2 yet.
Act Four and Endgame Overhaul
The addition of Act Four and the Interlude unlocks 25 brand-new Endgame Maps filled with fresh monsters, bosses, and dynamic environments. Players will encounter terrifying battles such as:
- Rockpools, where sirens lure you into battle before facing the Goblin King.
- Cliffside, a haunted town dominated by a divine axe-wielding brute.
- Holten, home to a storm-wielding reaper.
- Sandstorm, where players fight a time-slicing Faridun Swordmaster.
- Maelstrom, requiring beacon clears to unlock its hidden boss arena.
- Vaal Vaults, which demand keys to access elite encounters.
Each map also includes uber versions of Act Four bosses and Interlude end-bosses, rewarding Lineage Support Gems that push skill customization to the next level.
Asynchronous Trade Finally Arrives
Long requested by the community, Path of Exile 2 introduces Asynchronous Trade with The Third Edict. This system allows players to buy items even when the seller isn’t online, streamlining the economy and making trading far more accessible.
Free Weekend: August 29 – September 1
To celebrate the launch of The Third Edict, Grinding Gear Games is offering a Free Weekend from August 29 at 1 PM PDT to September 1 at 1 PM PDT. For the first time, players can dive into both new and existing content without needing an Early Access key.
Those who want permanent access can pick up the Early Access Supporter Pack, starting at USD $30, which includes Path of Exile 2, The Third Edict expansion, and exclusive cosmetic packs like the Justice and Trarthan Executioner Packs.
