POE 2's 'Return of the Ancients' Launches on the 30th, Escaping Endgame Repetitive Battles

gamemeca Ⅰ Kim Mi Hee 2026.05.29 14:47 UTC+9

TL;DR (2-3 Sentence Summary)

Kakao Games will launch the new expansion pack 'Return of the Ancients' for 'Path of Exile 2' on the 30th. Developed by Grinding Gear Games and serviced domestically by Kakao Games, this expansion includes a complete overhaul of the endgame system, the new league 'Alldur's Rune,' new ascendancy classes 'Spirit Walker' and 'Martial Artist,' introduction of challenges, and convenience improvements. The 'Vaal' and 'Ritual' content within the endgame Atlas will feature new storylines. Moving away from repetitive combat, players will explore ancient structures in a massive fortress, following the story and tackling dedicated bosses.

패스 오브 엑자일 2 스크린샷(사진제공: 카카오게임즈) — ▲ Path of Exile 2: 'Return of the Ancients' Expansion Key Art (Image courtesy of Kakao Games)

Kakao Games is set to launch 'Return of the Ancients,' the latest expansion for 'Path of Exile 2,' developed by Grinding Gear Games and serviced locally by Kakao Games, on the 30th of this month.

This expansion introduces a complete overhaul of the endgame system, a new league titled 'Alldur's Rune,' new Ascendancy classes 'Spirit Walker' and 'Martial Artist,' a Challenge system, and various quality-of-life improvements.

To begin with, new storylines are being woven into existing endgame Atlas content such as 'Visions' and 'Rituals.' Moving away from the traditional loop of repetitive combat, players will now follow narrative threads to explore colossal fortresses, delve into ancient structures, and confront dedicated bosses.

The new league content, 'Alldur's Rune,' delves into the tale of a blacksmith seeking to revive ancient rune-crafting techniques. Players will venture into mysterious ruins, battling monsters empowered by ancient rune combinations to secure high-tier rewards.

The roster of playable classes is also expanding with the addition of 'Spirit Walker' and 'Martial Artist.' The Spirit Walker, an Ascendancy for the Huntress, channels the spirits of stags, owls, and bears to engage in diverse combat styles encompassing attack, defence, and summoning. Meanwhile, the Martial Artist, an Ascendancy for the Monk, conjures their own illusions and engages in unique close-quarters combat.

New systems designed to enhance the player experience are also being implemented. A Challenge system allows players to earn item rewards by completing specific tasks, enabling character customisation. Furthermore, a Build Planner system will be introduced, letting players replicate the skill and equipment setups of other users, and an immediate item price check feature has been added.

'Path of Exile 2' is currently in development with a full release slated for sometime this year. The 'Return of the Ancients' expansion will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S starting May 30th. To celebrate, a free play event for 'Path of Exile 2' will run from May 30th until 5 AM on June 2nd.

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This news was translated by AI.

Kim Mi Hee, Reporter

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POE 2's 'Return of the Ancients' Launches on the 30th, Escaping Endgame Repetitive Battles