Grinding Gear Games has announced the launch of Path of Exile: Secrets of the Atlas, the latest expansion for the popular free-to-play action RPG, set to release on June 13, 2025. The expansion introduces major updates to the game’s endgame systems, a new storyline, reworked gameplay mechanics, and a new seasonal challenge league.
New Endgame Content and Storyline
The expansion aims to further enhance players’ endgame experience with “Threads of Consciousness,” a new narrative path that includes:
- A new endgame storyline, featuring the return of fan-favorite character Zana.
- Three new Guardian bosses, each unlocking access to newly introduced Pinnacle Bosses, offering high-tier challenges and rewards.
- Memory-influenced maps that include new monsters and map-modifying effects tied to Zana’s memories.
- New Pinnacle Items and the Memory Strand crafting system, allowing deeper item customization.
Mercenaries of Trarthus Challenge League
A new league titled Mercenaries of Trarthus will run alongside the expansion. In this league:
- Players encounter and battle mercenaries with randomized gear, archetypes, and skills.
- Mercenaries can be recruited, customized, or exiled, offering strategic options and additional gameplay depth.
- These NPC allies provide both increased monster difficulty and enhanced rewards.
- Completing league challenges can unlock the Watcher’s Wrath Cosmetic Armour Set, which is also usable in Path of Exile 2.
System Reworks and Improvements
Several existing systems are being updated:
- Betrayal League Rework: The Syndicate system has been streamlined for better accessibility and rewards, including persistent progression, improved Atlas tree support, and the return of Veiled Chaos Orbs.
- Runegrafting and Kingsmarch Services: Players gain access to new endgame services without requiring town-building. Notably, Runegrafting lets players modify Mastery nodes on their Passive Skill Trees.
- Quality of Life Updates: Enhancements include the ability to unveil items anywhere, expanded map device inventory, game pausing, and more.
Race Event and Competitive Play
To celebrate the launch, Grinding Gear Games will host a Hardcore Solo Self-Found Race in the new league. Players will compete to be the first to defeat the expansion’s Pinnacle Bosses, with rewards available to top finishers. Full details will be shared closer to launch.
Update Schedule for 2025
Grinding Gear Games also outlined its content update roadmap for both Path of Exile 1 and Path of Exile 2:
Path of Exile 1
- Version 3.26 – June 13
- Version 3.27 – October
Path of Exile 2
- Version 0.3.0 – August
- Version 0.4.0 – December
New Supporter Packs Available
Alongside the expansion, two new supporter pack series will be available for purchase:
- Cryptkeeper Packs (\$30, \$60, \$90 tiers) – Includes themed cosmetic items like a portal effect, finisher, armor set, and hideout decorations.
- Phrecian Magistrate Packs (\$30, \$60, \$90 tiers) – Offers new visual effects, pets, and decorations.
Path of Exile: Secrets of the Atlas launches globally on June 13. A full list of patch notes can be found on the Path of Exile website.
