Path of Exile 2 Update 0.5.5 Adds Forbidden Rites Event League on September 4

Grinding Gear Games has revealed Path of Exile 2 update 0.5.5, which launches September 4 at 1 PM PDT. The main addition is Forbidden Rites, a new event league with a fresh economy, eight challenges, and exclusive cosmetic rewards.

The studio also confirmed that the Duelist will join Path of Exile 2 with the game’s 1.0 release on December 11. GGG showed the class during its latest GGG Live presentation, alongside a broader look at Forbidden Rites. More detailed patch notes are expected next week, closer to the update’s release, according to the official post.

Forbidden Rites puts Ritual into every campaign zone, giving players a more consistent way to interact with the mechanic while leveling. In parties, Tribute shop rerolls will be handled by the host. The event also adds Sacred Bloom, which can open a path into a Wildwood map entrance.

There are eight challenges tied to the event league. Completing them unlocks four cosmetics and a hideout statue, so there’s a clear reward track for players who want to dip in before the 1.0 launch.

Update 0.5.5 is also making notable changes to the Trial of Chaos. Players will be able to pause between rooms, and the endgame version is being expanded to 30 rooms. A deep run can also award all three Trialmaster fragments, and new Wager Modifiers are being added to change up the risk and reward.

GGG also mentioned Abyssal Ravines coming to the Atlas. The current Runes of Aldur league will keep running, and the studio isn’t planning a large character balance pass with this update. That’s being saved for the 1.0 release in December.

Further reading: Official Path of Exile 2 0.5.5 forum post