Forbidden Rites Launch Information

The Forbidden Rites Event starts soon alongside the release of patch 0.5.5 for Path of Exile 2. In this news post, we’ve gathered all the information you need to know about what happens tomorrow and how to start downloading the patch early.

Realms will go down at: Sept. 04, 2026 8:00 PM (MESZ) and patching will begin shortly after.

The servers go live for PC and Console at: Sept. 04, 2026 10:00 PM (MESZ)

The above times are displayed in your local time zone. You’ll need to be logged into your account to see these. To change your local time, go to “My Account”, “Manage Account” and “Edit Preferences”.

The patch size for the update will be around 17GB on the standalone client and Steam. The estimated size of the patch for consoles is 12GB.

Predownload For Existing Path of Exile 2 Players

Existing Path of Exile 2 players can predownload the update using a torrent file available for PC. Please keep in mind that this method, while available earlier, results in a larger download because it includes all existing client content. The estimated size of this predownload is 140GB. When patching begins, you’ll also have a few remaining files that you’ll need to download.



This torrent only includes the GGPK file, so you’ll need to copy it into your actual install folder once the patching server is up, no earlier than three hours before the realm goes up. Please note that you can’t use this GGPK file with the Steam or Epic clients.

Our console players are now able to predownload the 0.5.5 update! You will still be able to play the current version of Path of Exile 2 until the start of Forbidden Rites.

New Twitch Drops

Watch your favourite community creators playing Forbidden Rites during the release week and earn a new reward through Twitch Drops! Just link your Path of Exile account to Twitch (see below) and tune in to any channel in the Path of Exile 2 Directory to get the Blade of the Champion Pet. You will receive the reward after 2 hours of accumulated watch time.



Drops will be enabled from September 4th 1PM PDT until September 11th 1PM PDT, or Sept. 04, 2026 10:00 PM (MESZ) until Sept. 11, 2026 10:00 PM (MESZ) in your local time. This promotion is available for all accounts.

How do I link my Path of Exile account with Twitch?

Visit your Twitch Settings page while logged in. If your account isn't connected, click the "Connect" button for Twitch under "Other Connections". Please also make sure that the sub-account you’re linking with Twitch is the one that you want to receive the Drops on. Complete the process on Twitch and you will be redirected back to your Twitch Settings page. If your account is already connected, this page should say "Your Path of Exile account is currently linked to your Twitch account."

How do I redeem my rewards?

After you've accumulated enough watch time to earn your Drops, you must redeem them from your Twitch Inventory before the promotional period ends.

How do I enable Twitch Drops on my channel?

If you’re planning to stream Path of Exile 2 and want to enable Twitch Drops for your viewers, you can do it via your Twitch Creator Dashboard here.

Is this new Twitch Drop exclusive?

The Blade of the Champion Pet is not exclusive to Twitch Drops and will eventually be sold in our Microtransactions Store.

Will the Pet work in Path of Exile 1?

Yes, it will be made available for use in Path of Exile 1 in the future.

Good luck Exiles, and see you in Wraeclast!