PoE 2’s Co-Director: “I’d Be Beyond Shocked If It Didn’t Launch in 2026”

The developer Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has confirmed that they are aiming for a full release of Path of Exile 2 in 2026. Co-director Mark Roberts told PC Gamer that he would be “Very, very surprised if it isn’t fully released in 2026.” He stressed that the team never intended for the game to spend as long in early access as it has.

Roberts admits there are many variables that affect the timeline — for example, live-service demands, unexpected issues, and the need to support the game while it is already in use. He said: “It certainly is the case that we never intended to be in early access this long.”

Early access realities and changing scope

When Path of Exile 2 entered early access (in December 2024) it was expected to transition to full release within six months. But as Roberts and the team discovered, the reality has been more complex. The game launched with several classes and campaign content planned to expand later, and supporting the live game has consumed more resources than initially expected.

Roberts said that handling the live-service side of the game has altered the team’s focus: “At the end of the day, your long term plans go a little bit out the window the moment you have a live service game — even one in early access — to have to manage and maintain.”

He also noted that unexpected events contributed to delays — for example, massive DDoS attacks on servers and an earlier update (“Dawn of the Hunt”) that required cleanup and redesign. These diverted effort away from campaign development and full-release work.

What this means for players and build-creators

For players who are waiting for the full 1.0 launch, this transparency from GGG offers some clarity. While the exact date isn’t locked in, the 2026 timeline shows there is a clear expectation within the studio to push toward it. Knowing that the team is aware early access has extended longer than planned can be reassuring.

For creators and those interested in end-game content or new builds: the fact that the full release is still ahead means that some systems, classes or campaigns may yet be added or refined. That offers the possibility of fresh opportunities once the game launches stellar version 1.0.

On the other hand, if you are considering jumping into early access now or continuing to play, you should expect that some features may still change. The live-service support will continue and may affect things like balance, end-game features or content pacing.

Reflections on the studio’s approach

The interview highlights a few broader lessons about game development, especially for large projects that shift into live service or early access. First, even when a developer intends a short early access window, real-world technical, operational or community issues can extend it. GGG acknowledges that they underestimated how much live-service demands would impact development. Second, the studio is learning that locking dates and features simultaneously is difficult when you are building and supporting a game at the same time. Third, while players may see delay as disappointing, GGG’s message suggests they are prioritising quality and service over rushing to ship.

Looking ahead

What should players watch for in the coming months?

• Updates on remaining campaign acts and missing classes for Path of Exile 2.
  
  

• Major patches that refine end-game systems, as the team indicated that more work remains.
  
  

• Any announcements around full release firming up a date within 2026.
  
  

• Continued support, bug-fixes and balance patches in early access — indicating that key live-service infrastructure remains a priority.
  
  
  

While nothing is guaranteed, the message from GGG is clear: they are working toward a full release in 2026 and are aware of the extra time that early access has taken. For committed players, the wait may be worth it if the final product reflects that commitment.