Path of Exile 2 Shows Off Return of the Ancients Expansion

Grinding Gear Games has showcased the next and final major content update for Path of Exile 2 before its 1.0 launch later this year.

Return of the Ancients aims to completely transform the endgame experience and introduces a massive 50+ hours of new content, which includes a new challenge system, unique items, expanded crafting and reimagined Atlas Tree. As well as this, the expansion is introducing five new storylines, 15 new bosses and Ascendancy classes.

One of the main centrepieces of the update is the new fortress, where players are tasked with venturing inside, restoring its ancient machinery and securing its weapons before they can do damage. This is one of several endgame storylines that is setting the tone for a more structured approach to endgame progression, as every boss now has a dedicated questline.

Challenges are marking their debut in the upcoming expansion, with eight tasks rewarding players with pieces of the Knight of Aldur armour set. On top of the countless hours of new content, Return of the Ancients includes a multitude of quality-of-life features, including a native build guide system and instant price checking.

Return of the Ancients will be the last major content drop before Path of Exile 2’s full 1.0 launch, currently targeted for sometime in 2026 following ExileCon. Access to the expansion now is included with any Early Access Supporter Pack.