Path of Exile 2: Early Access Launch & Official Twitch Drops Guide
Category: Expansion Announcement / Class Guide
Status: Upcoming Patch 0.4.0
Launch Date: December 12, 2025
Fate of the Vaal: A New Era Begins
Exiles, the wait is nearly over. Grinding Gear Games is proud to announce the next major expansion for Path of Exile 2: Fate of the Vaal. Alongside new corruption mechanics and blood magic secrets, we are unlocking the highly anticipated 7th class: The Druid.
Class Overview: The Druid
The Druid is a Strength / Intelligence Hybrid. Officially defined as a "Hybrid Spellcaster & Tank," this class bridges the gap between elemental destruction and primal durability.
The design philosophy revolves around Fluid Shapeshifting. Your form is dictated by your actions, allowing for seamless combat flow without cooldowns.
Core Mechanics & Skill Combos
Mastering the Druid means mastering the rhythm between casting in Human Form and striking in Bear Form. Here are the official combos revealed for the 0.4.0 update:
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1. The Molten Cascade (Fire & Physical)
Description: This is your primary burst damage tool for clearing packs.
Combo:- Volcano (Human Form): Cast a volcanic vent that spews magma projectiles over time.
- Furious Slam (Bear Form): A massive area-of-effect slam. If used near a Volcano, it triggers a Molten Cascade, instantly releasing all remaining projectiles for massive damage.
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2. The Lightning Loop (Storm & Strike)
Description: Perfect for sustained DPS and mobility.
Combo:- Lightning Storm (Human Form): Conjure a storm cloud that rains lightning bolts.
- Maul (Bear Form): Striking enemies inside the storm triggers additional lightning strikes from the cloud, creating a deadly loop of physical and lightning damage.
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3. Utility & Survival
Description: Tools for tankiness and buffs.
Skills:- Ferocious Roar: Exerts your next attack and generates Endurance Charges for tankiness.
- Summon Wolf: Companions that grant a Critical Strike Chance buff via their Howl ability.
Key Dates & Twitch Drops
Celebrate the launch of the Fate of the Vaal league by watching your favorite streamers! Link your Path of Exile account to Twitch to earn these exclusive rewards.
| Event | Time & Requirement | Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1: Launch Celebration |
Start: Dec 6, 11:00 AM (PST) End: Dec 14, 12:00 AM (PST) Req: Watch for 3 Hours |
1. Energising Bolt Flask Effect: A visual effect of electric light surrounding is triggered when taking medicine. 2. Halo of the Righteous: A golden sacred halo appeared above the head. |
| Week 2: The Journey Continues |
Start: Dec 14, 12:00 AM (PST) End: Dec 22, 12:00 AM (PST) Req: Watch for 3 Hours |
Temporal Lord’s Portal Effect: A portal appearance with time/clock elements. |
| Support a Streamer |
Duration: Dec 6 — Dec 22 Req: Gift or Purchase 2 Subscriptions |
Small Chimera Pet: A pet that follows the player. |
Video Resources
- Path of Exile 2: Fate of the Vaal League Teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxw3m5FyB68
- Path of Exile 2 Druid skills: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woJ-VyVkqzs
- 3 BUFFS & NERFS for Patch 0.4 | The Last of the Druids Predictions:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJTClkctIDg&t=1s
Conclusion
The Druid arrives to reclaim the wilds. Whether you choose to command the storm or become the beast, the Fate of the Vaal awaits you.
See you in Wraeclast on December 12th!
Disclaimer: All skill names and mechanics are based on official footage released by Grinding Gear Games and are subject to change during development.