Path of Exile 2 adds swords; full 1.0 free-to-play launch set for Dec 11, 2026

GG Brief Editorial Desk · AI-assisted, source attributed

Path of Exile 2 leaves early access and reaches its 1.0 free-to-play release on December 11, 2026. The launch includes a sword-using class called the Duelist and a new sword weapon type that introduces fresh skills usable by every class because weapons are class-agnostic. A balance-focused mini‑league update (0.5.5) is planned within the next month, and the developer will stream more full-release and mini‑league details on Thursday. The reveal trailer shows new sword skills, including a cone-of-icicles slam borrowed from a campaign boss.

• Full 1.0 release scheduled for December 11, 2026; Path of Exile 2 will exit early access and be free-to-play like its predecessor.
• A sword-using class referred to as the Duelist will be included at launch and the trailer demonstrates new sword skills, including an icicle-cone slam adapted from a campaign boss.
• Weapons in PoE 2 are class-agnostic, so adding the sword weapon type gives new skills and build options to all classes.
• A balance-focused mini-league update numbered 0.5.5 is expected within a month, and the developer will stream additional 1.0 and mini-league details on Thursday.