An Epochal Shift: Path of Exile 2’s ‘The Third Edict’ Update is a Game-Changer

For months, the early access period of Path of Exile 2 has been a proving ground for Grinding Gear Games, with the community providing a deluge of feedback on everything from class balance to the game’s notoriously cumbersome trading system. At Gamescom 2025’s Opening Night Live, the developers finally revealed their next major content update, and it’s clear they’ve been listening. Titled “The Third Edict,” the update is poised to be the most significant patch since the game’s early access launch, not just by adding new content, but by overhauling some of the most fundamental systems that have been a source of player frustration. With a new campaign act, a complete support gem rework, and a groundbreaking new trade system, this update is a powerful statement that Grinding Gear Games is committed to building a game that is not just a sequel, but a new standard for the ARPG genre.

The update, which goes live on August 29, 2025, is a testament to the developer’s philosophy of “let’s fix every problem.” The changes are so far-reaching that they will likely redefine the way players approach the game. It is a bold move from a studio that has long been known for its uncompromising vision, and it is a clear signal that they are willing to make big changes in order to deliver a game that lives up to its immense potential.

A New Journey: Act 4 and the Interludes

The centerpiece of “The Third Edict” is the addition of Act 4, the penultimate chapter of the game’s campaign. This new act takes place on the Ngamakunui archipelago, a stunning chain of Polynesian-inspired islands. In a major departure from the series’ linear design, the archipelago will be a non-linear experience, with players able to sail to eight different islands in any order they choose. This is a massive change that will not only improve the game’s replayability but will also allow players to explore a new world filled with over 100 new monster types and 12 new bosses. This is an exciting and ambitious change that shows a willingness to experiment with the traditional ARPG formula.

In addition to Act 4, the update will also introduce a new feature called “The Interludes.” Recognizing that the campaign was becoming too long and repetitive, Grinding Gear Games is removing the “Cruel” difficulty and replacing it with three temporary acts. These are bite-sized, temporary acts that will offer a new, less-repetitive way to level a character to endgame strength. This is a brilliant solution to a long-standing problem and will make the journey to the endgame a far more enjoyable experience for both new and veteran players.

The Quality of Life Overhaul: Trade, Sprinting, and Support Gems

The most impactful changes in “The Third Edict” are the ones that address long-standing quality-of-life issues. For years, the trade system in Path of Exile has been a source of frustration, with players having to message dozens of people in order to buy a single item. The new trade system, which is a key feature of this update, is a game-changer. It introduces a personal merchant named Ange who can be placed in your hideout. When you list an item for sale, another player can simply teleport to your hideout and buy the item from Ange, even if you are offline. This is a massive improvement that will streamline the trade process and make the game far more enjoyable for everyone.

The update also introduces a new “Sprinting” mechanic, which allows all characters to sprint after a dodge roll. This is a major change that will make traversing the game’s massive zones a far quicker and more enjoyable experience. The developers have also completely overhauled the Support Gem system, allowing a single support gem to be socketed into multiple skills at the same time. This is a huge change that will open up a new world of build possibilities and allow players to create more complex and powerful characters than ever before.

The “Third Edict” update is a powerful statement that Grinding Gear Games is listening to its community and is willing to make major changes in order to deliver a game that lives up to its full potential. With a new campaign act, a groundbreaking new trade system, and a complete overhaul of some of the game’s most fundamental systems, this update is a massive win for Path of Exile 2 and its fans. The future of the ARPG genre is looking brighter than ever.