The Beast Within: Path of Exile 2 Unleashes the Druid This December
Published on: 12/2/2025
The wait for one of Path of Exile 2’s most complex and anticipated classes is finally over. Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has confirmed that its next major update, Path of Exile 2: The Last of the Druids, will launch on Friday, December 12.
This update brings the shapeshifting Druid class to the forefront—a mechanic developers have openly admitted was one of the hardest to perfect. But perhaps even more exciting for newcomers is the announcement that the launch will be accompanied by a free weekend, allowing curious players to dive into Wraeclast without an upfront cost.
Release Schedule
Reveal Stream: Thursday, December 4 at 11am PT / 2pm ET / 7pm GMT.
Launch Date: Friday, December 12 at 11am PT / 2pm ET / 7pm GMT.
Free Weekend: Runs from the launch time on December 12 through Monday, December 15.
What to Expect: The Druid and Beyond
While the Druid is the headline act, the update follows GGG’s tradition of "bulky" content drops. Players can expect a suite of new skills tailored for the shapeshifter, but also likely new gems and abilities for existing classes.
According to game director Mark Roberts, players should also anticipate a new league mechanic. The team aims to ensure "each area feels different with something extra going on" for every expansion. Speculation also points to potential additions such as:
Act 5 Campaign Content: The game is planned to have six acts, and this update could open the door to the penultimate chapter.
Endgame Expansions: New bosses, "uber" encounters, or tweaks to the Atlas mapping system are standard for updates of this size.
Passive Tree Overhaul: A refresh of the game's massive skill tree is often part of the package when a new class is introduced.
Try Before You Buy
For those who have been hesitant to buy into the Early Access, the free weekend is a perfect entry point. Running for three days, it offers enough time for dedicated players to push through a significant portion of the campaign. Crucially, all progress made during the free weekend will be saved, meaning if you decide to purchase the game later, you can pick up exactly where you left off.
With the reveal stream just around the corner on December 4, we won't have to wait long to see the Druid in action. Until then, sharpen your claws—December 12 is going to be wild.
