Don't Wait Until Launch to Get Ready

Path of Exile's next major expansion, 3.29, finally has an official release date. Are you still waiting for more information before deciding what to do with your current league stash and POE orbs? Should you start liquidating assets now, or wait for new content reveals? When does the current Mercenaries League end, and are there any pre-launch events worth participating in? This guide covers everything you need to know before launch so you can hit the ground running when 3.29 arrives.

Mark These Dates Now: Three Key Deadlines You Can't Afford to Miss

Grinding Gear Games has officially announced the major milestones leading up to the 3.29 expansion.

Here are the three most important dates:

July 16, 2026 – Expansion Reveal Livestream

The official reveal stream begins at 4:00 PM EDT. This is where GGG will showcase the new league mechanic, balance changes, skill updates, ascendancy adjustments, and other major features.

July 20, 2026 – Mercenaries League Ends

The current challenge league will officially close at 6:00 PM EDT. Any unfinished league-specific goals and progression opportunities will disappear once the league ends.

July 24, 2026 – Path of Exile 3.29 Launch

The expansion launches on Friday, July 24, at 4:00 PM EDT, marking the beginning of a brand-new league economy and progression race.

Key Takeaways

✅ July 16: Official reveal stream

✅ July 20: Current league ends

✅ July 24: 3.29 launches

Best For
All Path of Exile players
Returning players preparing for the new season

💡 Core Value: Helps you keep track of every major milestone and avoid missing important deadlines.

Clean Out Your League Stash Before It's Too Late

One of the most important pre-launch tasks is organizing your current league assets.

Before the Mercenaries League ends, take time to review your stash and identify items you no longer need.

Consider selling:

Unused unique items
Excess crafting materials
Spare currency
Duplicate equipment

Converting unused items into valuable currency before league migration can help maximize the value of your season's progress.

Key Takeaways

✅ Sort and organize your stash before league end

✅ Sell unused items while demand still exists

✅ Convert excess resources into more useful assets

Best For
Active league players
Currency farmers
Traders

💡 Core Value: Preserves the value of your seasonal progress and prevents wasted resources.

Don't Skip the Reveal Stream—Your League Starter Depends on It

The July 16 reveal stream is arguably the most important event before launch.

GGG will provide details on:

The new league mechanic
Skill balance changes
Ascendancy updates
Item adjustments
Endgame system changes

These announcements often determine which builds become strong league starters and which strategies lose effectiveness.

Players who watch the reveal can plan their progression well before launch instead of scrambling for information afterward.

Key Takeaways

✅ Full expansion details arrive on July 16

✅ Balance changes can dramatically affect builds

✅ Early planning leads to a smoother league start

Best For
Competitive players
League starter planners
Endgame-focused players

💡 Core Value: Helps you choose an effective league starter before the economy begins.

A Pre-Launch Event Is Also Coming

GGG has confirmed that a special event will take place before the launch of 3.29.

While details have not yet been announced, previous pre-launch events have often included unique gameplay modifiers, bonus rewards, and opportunities to experiment before the new league begins.

Keeping an eye on official announcements is highly recommended.

Key Takeaways

✅ A pre-launch event is on the way

✅ More details will be announced soon

✅ Potential rewards and bonuses may be available

Best For
Players planning to start 3.29 on day one
Event enthusiasts

💡 Core Value: Ensures you don't miss free rewards or valuable preparation opportunities.

Pre-Launch Preparation Tips
1. Add All Key Dates to Your Calendar

Set reminders for the reveal stream, league end, and expansion launch.

2. Don't Wait Until the Last Day to Sell Items

Selling gradually often leads to better prices and less stress.

3. Choose Your League Starter After the Reveal

Avoid committing to a build before the balance changes are announced.

4. Participate in the Pre-Launch Event

Any free rewards or bonuses can help improve your overall experience.

5. Casual Players Don't Need to Overprepare

Simply understanding the timeline and planning your play sessions is enough.

What Different Players Gain From Preparing Early
Competitive Racers

Core Benefit:

Lock in a strong league starter early
Begin progression immediately at launch
Gain an advantage in the race economy
Currency Farmers

Core Benefit:

Convert league assets efficiently
Enter the new economy with a clear plan
Take advantage of pre-launch rewards
Returning Players

Core Benefit:

Understand all major deadlines
Catch up on important information quickly
Avoid feeling overwhelmed on launch day
Standard League and Collectors

Core Benefit:

Organize storage before league migration
Manage incoming assets more efficiently
Keep long-term collections organized

With the release schedule for Path of Exile 3.29 now confirmed, there is plenty you can do before launch day. By tracking the important dates, organizing your assets, following the reveal stream, and POE Trade participating in any pre-launch events, you'll be fully prepared when the new expansion arrives and ready to start your journey without unnecessary delays.