Everything you need to know about preloading Path of Exile 2 on PC, PS5 and Xbox and how to preload the Steam version

The release of Path of Exile 2 is just around the corner and there is a preload for all platforms. On Steam, however, you have to do a little trickery.

On Friday, the action role-playing game will enter the test phase, and to help you get started right away, Path of Exile 2 gives you the option to download the game before release. We have compiled all the important information about preloading for you.

Path of Exile 2 – Preload Info

The official launch time is December 6, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. and is identical on all platforms. However, there are differences in the preload:

• PC: The preload starts at December 6, 2024 at 2:00 a.m. However, this applies only to the standalone client, which you can download directly from the official website. This time does not apply to the versions on Steam and the Epic Games Store.
• Xbox: Preload for Microsoft’s console is already live
• PS5: Preload is possible as soon as the supporter packages required for early access are available in the PS Store. The purchase should be possible from December 5, 2024 at 8:00 p.m.
• Steam and Epic Games Store: Officially, preloading is not possible, but there is a trick.

Important: To play, you need an early access key, which you get by buying a supporter package. These cost between 30 and 480 euros.

This is how it works with Steam and Epic

Officially, the developers are still checkingwhether they can enable preloading on other platforms. If that doesn’t work, there is a workaround for Steam and Epic.

Those who have purchased their supporter package directly from the developer Grinding Gear Games’ website can download the client directly from there. However, this also works with the Steam and Epic versions.

• Create an account for Path of Exile 2 via the official website
• Log in and then go to “Manage Account” under “My Account.”
• You can link your Steam or Epic account there
• As soon as the PC version goes live on December 6, you can download it from the website and install the game to be ready to play right at the release later that evening.

Can you switch again?

If you later want to switch from the in-house launcher from Grinding Gear Games back to Steam or Epic Games, you can also download the game on your chosen platform. Your characters and game progress will be transferred to the new platform. However, you can also continue playing via the developers’ launcher, the choice is entirely yours.