Grinding Gear Games has officially unveiled Return of the Ancients, the first major expansion for Path of Exile 2. Set to launch on May 29, 2026, the update promises a complete overhaul of the action RPG’s endgame, introducing new storylines, bosses, crafting systems, and Ascendancy classes.
Path of Exile 2 Return of the Ancients. (Image: ABWaves Game)
The expansion adds over 50 hours of endgame content, featuring six new story arcs and 15 original bosses (including four pinnacle “Supreme Bosses”). This arrives alongside a redesigned Atlas Tree and expanded progression systems.
The expansion debuts the “Runes of Aldur” challenge league, introducing Ezomyte Runesmithing. This mechanic allows players to craft custom equipment by embedding runes into artifacts known as Ezomyte Remnants.
Risk vs. Reward: Rune combinations modify both the items and the enemies. For example, Fire Runes grant monsters flame abilities, while Moon Runes summon celestial hazards. The more powerful the craft, the deadlier the encounter.
Runic Ward: Players can unlock a new defensive resource called Runic Ward. It acts as a secondary health bar and powers unique special abilities that do not consume mana.
A more structured endgame
The Atlas has been completely restructured to offer clearer progression paths and fixed objectives.
Fortresses: Massive structures now appear as central progression hubs. Players must infiltrate these strongholds, activate ancient machinery, and disable precursor weapons threatening the world of Wraeclast.
Quest-Based Bosses: In a significant change, all major endgame bosses can now be accessed via dedicated questlines, removing the reliance on random “key” drops to trigger pivotal battles.
New ascendancy classes
Two new Ascendancy classes have been added to expand build diversity:
Spirit Walker: Focused on Azmerian spirits, this class allows players to harness the powers of the Stag, Owl, and Bear. It also introduces the ability to tame bestial bosses as permanent allies.
Martial Artist: An expansion of the Monk playstyle, this class utilizes offensive illusions, spectral bells, and critical strikes that create destructive resonance.
Legacy content overhauls
Four leagues introduced during Early Access—Delirium, Breach, Ritual, and Expedition—have received full reworks. They now feature dedicated Atlas progression and integrated stories. Notable changes include visible progress bars for Breach, new mirror mechanics for Delirium, and a procedural oceanic exploration system for Expedition.
Quality of life and rewards
The expansion officially inaugurates the Path of Exile 2 Challenge system. Completing the eight available challenges unlocks pieces of the exclusive Knight of Aldur armor set. Other improvements include:
Native Build Guide System: Integrated help for character planning.
Real-Time Atlas Search: Enhanced navigation for the endgame map.
Instant Market Pricing: Check item values immediately using the Shift+Alt shortcut.
Release Date:Path of Exile 2: Return of the Ancients launches May 29 on PC (Steam/Epic), PlayStation, and Xbox. It is included for all players with Early Access supporter packs.
