PoE 2 0.4 Release Date & Next League Update Leaks

With the 0.3.1 patch rolled out, Path of Exile 2: The Third Edict season is entering the endgame stage. And the game continues to build momentum, with players eagerly awaiting each new update. So the next PoE 2 0.4.0 patch and its associated league are already stirring intense speculation and anticipation. Here we will walk you through what to expect from the next major update, the release window based on developer patterns and community speculation, and the most exciting rumors and leaks, especially around the potential return of the Delve mechanic.

Path of Exile 0.4.0 Release Date: When is the Next Season 4 League Update Coming?

The release schedule for Path of Exile 2 has become a popular topic of discussion, with many players trying to pinpoint when 0.4.0 will arrive. Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has publicly stated their aim to maintain a four-month league cycle for Path of Exile 2, with major updates every four months. Since 0.3.0 launched at the end of August, the next content drop is expected around mid-to-late December.

Looking at GGG’s past release windows, leagues have typically launched two to three weeks before Christmas. This approach allows players to dive into fresh content during the holidays, while still giving the developers a window to address any major issues before staff take time off. Some in the community recall that GGG previously regretted releasing a league too close to the holidays, as it limited their ability to respond to player feedback and fix launch issues. As a result, the week or two before the holidays is widely considered the most likely target for 0.4.0.

While a few voices suggest a possible delay into January, most agree that a December release is the most probable outcome. If the update lands in early December, there will be time to address any urgent issues before the holiday break, mirroring what GGG has done in previous years.

PoE 2 Next 0.4 Update: What to Expect in Path of Exile 2 Patch 0.4.0 Season 4 League?

The 0.4.0 update is going to be a game-changer again for Path of Exile 2, with a strong focus on enhancing the endgame experience and introducing new content. Here are the rumors and leaks we know so far about the next league update:

1. Endgame Enhancements: Delve’s Long-Awaited Return

One of the hottest topics in the PoE 2 community right now is the possible return of the Delve mechanic. Data mining efforts and leaks suggest that Delve—or at least a new system inspired by it—may be the major focus of the next league. Several content creators and streamers have highlighted evidence of Delve-related strings and icons appearing in the PoE 2 database, with items like “Delve socketable currency” and references to fossils and resonators being uncovered before quickly disappearing from public view.

For those unfamiliar, Delve in Path of Exile 1 is a popular mechanic centered around exploring an infinite, procedurally generated mine, collecting resources like fossils and resonators used for deterministic crafting. This system not only adds an extra layer of progression, but also brings unique rewards and long-term goals for players who enjoy pushing their builds to the limit. The addition of Delve would give players more control over crafting outcomes and provide a new gameplay loop that goes beyond standard mapping.

Why Delve Makes Sense for PoE 2 0.4?

Feedback from the community has consistently called for more robust endgame systems in Path of Exile 2. While mapping has improved with recent updates, many players feel that the endgame still lacks meaningful variety and long-term depth. A Delve-style system would address this by offering near-infinite progression, unique crafting opportunities, and a fresh set of endgame challenges.

This rumored feature fits neatly into GGG’s current design trends. Path of Exile 2’s last major update brought substantial improvements to campaign flow, crafting, and trade. However, the endgame remains a weak point, and bringing back DelveB or a new mechanic inspired by it could be the missing piece to tie together exploration, crafting, and progression.

2. New Class: Druid

The introduction of a new character class is highly anticipated. The Druid, which was previously teased but delayed due to animation issues, is expected to finally make its debut. The class is rumored to focus on transformation mechanics, offering new playstyles and synergies, especially suited to the challenging environments a Delve-like system would provide.

3. Campaign and Atlas Reworks

Players are anticipating the inclusion of a new act or significant updates to the existing campaign. Recent data mining suggests that the Island of Kin and Sulphite mechanics might play a role in the next chapter, possibly tying into the rumored Delve expansion. Changes to the Atlas and endgame progression systems are also expected, potentially making mapping and exploration more rewarding.

4. Crafting Improvements

The crafting system has undergone notable changes in previous updates, but there’s still room for growth. The rumored incorporation of fossils and resonators from Delve could provide players with more control over crafting outcomes. A system that ties crafting resources to gameplay loops, rather than random drops, would align with GGG’s recent focus on increasing player agency.

5. QoL and Optimization Updates

Optimization remains a top priority for many players, particularly those on consoles. Improved map performance, reduced input lag, and enhanced visibility during boss encounters are among the most requested changes. GGG has consistently worked to polish the game’s technical aspects, and the 0.4.0 patch is expected to continue this trend.