Path of Exile 2's first free weekend is here, and it's the perfect time to start

There's never been a better time to start Path of Exile 2. Developer Grinding Gear Games is launching the ARPG's third season, and the team is finally ready for players who've been waiting to get a free taste. The major overhaul introduces the fourth act of the campaign, dramatically bulks up the endgame, and solves a lot of fans' biggest issues. With a ton to explore, buffs across its seven classes, and fixes for decade-old frustrations, now is an ideal moment to jump in, and PoE 2's first ever free weekend means you can do so without spending a thing.

You can read my full rundown of everything in The Third Edict for the (very extensive) details, but if you're a newcomer then there's no need to worry about the nitty-gritty. What you should know is that the new Path of Exile 2 update strips out some of the most notable complaints about its early-access incarnation to date. There's now a four-act campaign, which is followed by three extra 'interlude acts' that will carry you through never-before-seen stories and boss battles into the endgame.

Even if you've tried the original game, the sequel is a very different experience, although my initial Path of Exile 2 review notes that it's got the potential to stand alongside its predecessor as one of the best games like Diablo. Because GGG is still cooking, you've so far had to pay if you want to join early access. But with the launch of The Third Edict, PoE 2 is temporarily becoming a free Steam game.

GGG confirms that, as a free trial player, you'll be able to enjoy "everything currently released in Path of Exile 2's early access, including the new Third Edict content update." There's no limit to how far you can go, and all of your progress will be saved on your account once the weekend comes to a close. You can either pick back up where you left off by purchasing an early access key, or simply wait for the eventual 1.0 release when the game goes fully free-to-play, and your characters will be waiting for you.

There are some new rewards up for grabs during the trial period, too, and you'll be able to snag these whether you're an existing player or joining for free. Reach the first town, Clearfell Encampment, and you'll earn an Exile's Hood cosmetic. Make it to the Rotten Druid in the Grim Tangle in act one and add the Exile's Staff skin, and defeat the final boss of the first chapter to complete the set with the Exile's Cloak.

If you're returning, there's a lot to look forward to. Buffs and skill tree additions will shake up the best Path of Exile 2 classes, meaning that everyone will be on an even playing field and learning together. Sprinting lets you zoom through cleared maps or run away from trouble at incredible speed, albeit with the caveat that you're in serious danger if someone trips you up. The long-awaited asynchronous trade means you can finally buy and sell items easily without having to wait for people to come online and respond to your messages.

Path of Exile 2 The Third Edict launches Friday August 29 at 1pm PT / 4pm ET / 9pm BST / 10pm CEST. The game is free to play from then until Monday September 1 at 1pm PT / 4pm ET / 9pm BST / 10pm CEST. For more details on the free weekend, check the FAQ from Grinding Gear Games.

Need some help getting started? While we're expecting big changes due to the overhauled skill tree, our best Path of Exile 2 builds will still get you off on the right foot. Wondering if your rig is up to the task? Check the Path of Exile 2 system requirements before committing to the download.

Let us know how you're finding the new season in the PCGamesN community Discord server, where you'll find plenty of ARPG fans among the thousands of readers already there.