Path of Exile 2 Dawn of The Hunt update revealed

Path of Exile 2 has continued to slowly but surely become one of the most popular ARPGs around, despite being in early access. The game has much for players to do and discover, from excellent bosses to areas that invoke a sense of awe from players. However, the early access ensures the game will continue to evolve and reach new heights.

The next major update for Path of Exile 2, Dawn of The Hunt ^[1], is set to arrive on April 4, 2025, bringing a wave of new content, balance changes, and gameplay improvements. With a new Challenge League, the introduction of the Huntress class, fresh Ascendancies, and the long-awaited spear weapon type, this update marks a significant evolution for the game. Here’s everything to expect from patch 0.2.0, including the latest economy reset, class additions, and gameplay overhauls.

Here’s what to know about Path of Exile 2’s upcoming Dawn of the Hunt update, including when it’ll come out and what it’ll have. If you want to prepare for the new update by getting your hands on the right currencies, then we have you covered. Check out Eloking’s Path of Exile 2 marketplace and discover the best price in the ideal environment.

Release date and platforms

Path of Exile 2’s anticipated patch 0.2.0, titled Dawn of The Hunt, is set to launch worldwide on April 4, 2025, at noon PT (3 pm ET). This update will be available on all platforms, including PC and consoles, allowing every player to experience the player simultaneously. The patch was supposed to launch in late March 2025 but was delayed due to Grinding Gear Games (GGG) managing two live-service games concurrently. 

Economy and balance reset

One of the biggest changes in Dawn of The Hunt is the economy and balance reset. While GGG has already implemented small nerfs to address overpowered interactions shortly after Path of Exile 2’s early access launch, patch 0.2.0 will introduce an extensive balance overhaul. Director Jonathan Rogers has emphasized that this update will focus on readjusting underutilized Skills and Ascendancies instead of nerfing popular builds. 

New challenge league

Although Path of Exile 2 doesn’t have traditional seasons (Leagues) yet, the title Dawn of The Hunt suggests the introduction of new league mechanics. A new Challenge League will debut with the patch, providing players with new content and objectives. While details about the league mechanics are unknown, the update’s name hints at a focus on hunting.

New classes

The Huntress class has been confirmed as the highlight of Dawn of The Hunt. This quick spear-wielding class is expected to bring a new playstyle to Path of Exile 2, combining melee and ranged abilities. The Druid class might also join the roster, as developers have mentioned it as one of the most feature-complete classes. Recent showcases of new INT+STR Uniques support this speculation.

There is also speculation about adding the Gladiator class (or Duelist). While this is mostly a prediction compared to the Huntress and Druid, it would add diversity to the game’s class lineup.

New Ascendancies

Patch 0.2.0 will introduce a hireling-based Mercenary Ascendancy, adding a new subclass to the game. Currently, the five existing classes in Path of Exile 2 each have one missing Ascendancy, and it’s fair to expect that these will be additions to the game. Ascendancies require less development time than full classes, making it an incredible addition. These new subclasses will give players more build options and refine the game’s class identity.

New weapon type: The Spear

The spear has been confirmed as a new weapon type arriving with the Huntress class. Described as a melee weapon with ranged capabilities, the spear will offer a versatile combat style. 

The spear will come with a bunch of new Skill Gems, such as:

• Whirling Slash: A spinning attack that damages enemies in a radius. The attack expands with more casts.
• Spearfield: A conical area-of-effect ability that rains down spears, slowing and damaging opponents.
• Rapid Assault: A series of spear thrusts targeting a single enemy.
• Puncture: A dash attack that scales with distance traveled and inflicts Bleed damage.

These skills will define the spear’s identity in combat, alongside the teased elemental ranged spear abilities.

New Skill Gems and Support Gems

In addition to new skills, Dawn of The Hunt will introduce numerous Skill Gems and Support Gems. Although the exact number is unknown, GGG has already revealed seven new Support Gems, enhancing build diversity and customization. These gems will be essential in shaping the meta and enabling new playstyles.

Gameplay changes

The update will bring numerous gameplay adjustments, including improvements to Weapon Set-swapping, making it a strategic option during combat. Additionally, GGG is doubling down on Towers, introducing new bosses and league mechanics tied to this feature. These changes aim to enhance the endgame experience and provide players with more varied and engaging content.

What’s next?

GGG has announced a comprehensive reveal of Dawn of The Hunt on March 27, 2025, at noon PT via their official Twitch channel. This stream will give players more information regarding the patch, like new mechanics, classes, and gameplay changes. Until then, players can look forward to April 4, 2025, when Dawn of The Hunt goes live.

FAQs

When is Path of Exile 2: Dawn of The Hunt releasing?

The update is set to launch worldwide on April 4, 2025, at 12 PM PT (3 PM ET) across all platforms, including PC and consoles. Originally planned for late March, the patch was delayed due to Grinding Gear Games managing both Path of Exile titles simultaneously. This will ensure a smoother and more polished release for all players.

What are the biggest additions in this update?

Dawn of The Hunt brings a new Challenge League, the Huntress class, and a hireling-based Mercenary Ascendancy. The update also introduces the spear weapon type, multiple new Skill Gems, and extensive economy and balance adjustments. These additions will expand build diversity and refine gameplay mechanics for both new and veteran players.

Will there be more details before the patch goes live?

Yes, Grinding Gear Games has scheduled a full reveal on March 27, 2025, at noon PT on Twitch. This presentation will cover new mechanics, gameplay changes, and additional class details. Players can tune in to get a closer look at what to expect before the update officially launches.

References

1. [1] "PoE 2 dawn of the hunt trailer". www.youtube.com. Retrieved March 13, 2025