What’s New in Path of Exile 2 Patch 0.4.0 “The Last of the Druids”

Patch 0.4.0, titled The Last of the Druids, is set to drop on December 12, 2025, and it promises to shake up the game in ways both veteran players and newcomers will love. From a brand-new class to major system improvements, this update is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet.

Enter the Druid: Shape-Shifter Extraordinaire

The crown jewel of this patch is undoubtedly the Druid class. For those who’ve been waiting to shape-shift their way through Wraeclast, your moment has arrived. The Druid can transform into three forms: bear, wolf, and wyvern, each with its own unique playstyle.

Bear Form is all about defense and resilience. Think of it as your frontline tank, able to absorb heavy hits while smashing enemies in close combat.

Wolf Form focuses on speed and agility, perfect for those who like to dart in and out of fights, striking fast and hard.

Wyvern Form lets you take the fight to the skies. With aerial attacks and ranged abilities, you can control the battlefield like never before.

Each form comes with a unique set of skills and talents, allowing players to experiment with completely different builds. Plus, the Druid has its own Ascendancy options, giving even more room for creative strategies. Whether you want to dominate as a tanky bruiser, a nimble assassin, or a flying sniper, the Druid delivers.

Revamped Items and Weapon Systems

Patch 0.4.0 isn’t just about a new class; it also overhauls the item system. Unique items have been rebalanced, giving previously overlooked gear a chance to shine. Players can now find that hidden legendary weapon actually worth using.

The itemization system has been optimized to provide more meaningful loot. Rare, magic, and common items now drop in a way that feels rewarding and consistent, smoothing out progression and making each adventure feel purposeful.

Weapon and bow modifiers have also been fine-tuned. Some effects have been strengthened, others slightly reduced, leading to a more balanced and strategic combat experience. Whether you’re swinging a sword, firing arrows, or summoning your Druid forms, combat feels fairer, more tactical, and more satisfying.

Skill Adjustments and Synergies

The skill system itself hasn’t been left untouched. Several skills and support gems have been reworked slightly to ensure that more builds remain viable and fun to play. What’s particularly exciting is that Druid abilities can now interact with other classes’ skills in fresh ways, opening doors for creative synergies. Players who love experimenting with combos will find plenty to tinker with, discovering setups that can turn even the toughest encounters into opportunities for clever gameplay.

System and Performance Enhancements

On the technical side, Patch 0.4.0 brings noticeable performance improvements. The game engine has been optimized for smoother frame rates and more stable gameplay, which matters most during high-intensity fights and large-scale encounters. The UI has also been upgraded, with clearer indicators for form switching, skill cooldowns, and other essential information. These changes reduce friction, letting players focus on strategy, exploration, and pure combat enjoyment.

A Perfect Update for Explorers and Experimenters

If you’re the kind of player who likes to explore without guides, this patch is a dream come true. The combination of revamped items, balanced skills, and intuitive systems encourages experimentation. The Druid’s multiple forms and deep talent options inspire creativity, while improved loot drops and weapon balance reward curiosity rather than pre-planned builds.

Patch 0.4.0 is a milestone for Path of Exile 2. It introduces a highly anticipated class while refining almost every core system. From unique items and weapons to skills, performance, and UI, this update creates a richer, more balanced, and immersive experience.