Path of Exile: Keepers of the Flame - Launch Details & Dates
Get ready to return to the shores of Wraeclast, Exiles. Grinding Gear Games has officially pulled back the curtain on its next major content update, Path of Exile: Keepers of the Flame. This new expansion, set to launch alongside the thrilling new "Keepers" challenge league, will arrive just in time for Halloween, promising a fresh wave of content, a completely new economy, and a host of challenges for veterans and newcomers alike.
The official launch date is set for Friday, October 31, 2025. As is tradition with major Path of Exile releases, the global launch will be preceded by a brief period of server downtime to allow for the deployment of the massive patch. This exciting new chapter in the free-to-play action RPG's saga was first unveiled on October 23, 2025, sparking immediate speculation and excitement throughout the dedicated community.
Path of Exile: Keepers of the Flame Launch Date and Times
Timing is everything for a successful league start. To ensure you're ready to dive in the moment the floodgates open, mark your calendars with the official schedule. The global launch for PC players will follow a coordinated rollout.
Here are the critical times you need to know:
- Realms Go Down: October 31, 2025, at 9:00 AM (PDT)
- Servers Go Live: October 31, 2025, at 12:00 PM (PDT)
The three-hour window between the servers going down and coming back online is when the patch will be applied. Players are encouraged to use this time to download the update so they can be ready to log in and create their new characters immediately at launch. Remember to convert these Pacific Daylight Times to your local timezone to avoid missing the start of the action.
What is the Keepers League?
For new players, the terminology can be a bit confusing. Keepers of the Flame is the name of the expansion itself, which typically includes major balance changes, new skills, new items, and overarching improvements to the core game. Launching alongside this expansion is the "Keepers league."
A challenge league is a temporary event (usually lasting about three months) that provides a fresh start for all players. Everyone begins with a new character, an empty stash, and a brand-new economy. This creates a level playing field and an exciting race to discover the league's new mechanics, defeat powerful bosses, and accumulate wealth.
While full details of the Keepers league mechanics are still under wraps, the name "Keepers of the Flame" suggests a theme centered around protection, ancient power, or perhaps a new form of fiery elemental magic. Players may find themselves tasked with guarding sacred pyres, channeling primordial energies, or battling back a shadowy force that seeks to extinguish the light from Wraeclast. New league mechanics often introduce unique NPCs, crafting systems, and endgame encounters that add layers of strategy and reward to the core gameplay loop.
Celebrate the Launch with Twitch Drops
Community engagement is a cornerstone of any Path of Exile launch, and Keepers of the Flame is no exception. To celebrate the release, a new set of Twitch Drops will be enabled, allowing players to earn exclusive in-game cosmetic items simply by watching their favorite streamers explore the new content.
To be eligible for these rewards, you must take one simple step:
- Link Your Accounts: Make sure your primary Path of Exile account is linked to your Twitch account. This can be done by logging into your account on the official Path of Exile website and navigating to the Twitch connection settings.
Once linked, all you have to do is watch any stream in the Path of Exile category on Twitch during the promotional period. After accumulating enough watch time, you will receive a notification on Twitch to claim your drop, which will then be available in your in-game cosmetics tab.
Furthermore, a "Support A Streamer" promotion is planned for the launch weekend. This initiative encourages viewers to support the game's dedicated content creators. Streamers who plan to broadcast Keepers of the Flame on launch day have been provided with a special asset to use in their overlays, making it easy for viewers to identify participating channels.
How to Prepare for the Keepers of the Flame Launch
A smooth league start requires a bit of preparation. Whether you're a seasoned pro aiming for the top of the ladder or a casual player looking to have a fun weekend, here are a few tips to get you ready for October 31st.
- Plan Your League Starter: Decide which skill and character class you want to play. A strong "league starter" build is one that can function well with minimal gear, allowing you to clear content efficiently and build a currency base for more powerful characters later.
- Download the Patch Early: Grinding Gear Games typically provides a torrent link for the patch file a day or two before launch. This allows you to pre-load the update and avoid slow download speeds during the launch-day rush.
- Organize Your Stash: While you'll be starting fresh in the Keepers league, take some time to clean up your character inventories and stash tabs in the parent Standard league. It's a good habit and helps you feel organized.
- Prepare Your Loot Filter: A good item filter is arguably the most important tool in the game. It hides useless items and highlights valuable ones. Make sure your preferred filter is updated for the new patch before the servers go live.
- Get Your Setup Ready: League launch weekend is a marathon, not a sprint. Prepare your snacks and drinks, make sure your chair is comfortable, and let your friends and family know you'll be busy delving into the mysteries of the Keepers league.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the release date for Path of Exile: Keepers of the Flame?
The expansion and the new Keepers league will launch on Friday, October 31, 2025.
What time do the servers for Keepers of the Flame go live?
The servers are scheduled to go live at 12:00 PM PDT (Pacific Daylight Time). The servers will go down for patching three hours earlier at 9:00 AM PDT.
Do I need to buy the Keepers of the Flame expansion?
No. Path of Exile and all of its expansions, including Keepers of the Flame, are completely free-to-play.
How do I get Twitch Drops for the launch?
You need to link your Path of Exile account with your Twitch account. After that, simply watch any Path of Exile stream on Twitch during the promotional period to earn progress towards your free cosmetic rewards.