PoE 3.28 Release Date, Schedule and Starter Build Guide

If you’re still actively playing Path of Exile 1, the upcoming PoE 3.28 league is something to look forward to. Grinding Gear Games continues its regular four-month update schedule, and a new league means fresh mechanics, balance changes, and a clean economy. Below is a simplified overview of the PoE 3.28 release date, what to expect in 2026, and how to choose a solid league starter build.

PoE 3.28 Release Date – When Is It Coming

Based on the latest official information, Path of Exile 3.28 is expected to launch in early March 2026. This follows GGG’s usual four-month league cycle. A reveal livestream will be announced closer to launch, where the developers will showcase the new league mechanic, skill changes, and balance updates. Until then, players still have time to finish objectives in the current Keepers of the Flame (3.27) league.

Since PoE 3.27 launched on October 31, 2025, the most likely release dates for 3.28 are:

• February 27, 2026 (Friday)

• March 6, 2026 (Friday)

GGG typically announces a league about a week before it goes live, so expect official details in late February.

If the schedule continues as planned:

• PoE 3.29 should arrive around late June 2026

• PoE 3.30 is likely for late October 2026

This steady release cycle keeps Path of Exile fresh throughout the year.

How to Pick a Good League Starter for PoE 3.28

Choosing the right league starter makes early progression much smoother. A good starter helps you clear maps efficiently, earn PoE currency, and reach the endgame without needing expensive gear.

1. Learn the New League Mechanic

Each new league introduces a unique mechanic that often favors certain playstyles. For example, Keepers of the Flame focused heavily on Breach-style content with dense monster packs.

For PoE 3.28, builds with good area damage, mobility, and reliable survivability are usually the safest choice. Still, remember that most of the game happens outside the league mechanic, so pick something you actually enjoy playing.

2. Balance Early Power and Endgame Potential

Strong league starters should:

• Clear maps comfortably early on

• Work well with basic or cheap gear

• Scale into late-game content with upgrades

Popular choices like Earthshatter Berserker or Slayer are recommended because they deal serious early damage, are easy to gear, and remain viable later. These builds also perform well in Solo Self-Found and Hardcore leagues.

3. Follow Build Guides and Stay Near Your Starting Tree

The passive skill tree in Path of Exile can be overwhelming. Each class starts in a different area, and most beginner builds are designed around nearby nodes.

For newer or returning players, following a proven build guide is the easiest way to avoid mistakes. Good guides explain:

• Which passives to take while leveling

• Gem setups for early and mid game

• Gear priorities as you progress

Trying to create your own build at league start can slow you down, especially if you’re not familiar with the meta.

4. Focus on Endgame Content You Enjoy

Once you reach maps, Path of Exile offers many endgame options, such as:

• Breach

• Blight

• Delve

• Heist

Using the Atlas passive tree, you can specialize in the content you enjoy most and increase its rewards. This makes farming more efficient and keeps the game fun over long sessions.

5. Check Build Popularity and Meta Strength

Popular builds usually have more guides, cheaper gear options, and better overall performance. Some reliable league starters include:

• Earthshatter Berserker / Slayer

• Poison Pathfinder

• Witch Wander builds

• Energy Blade Elementalist

• Ignite Elementalist or Cold Slayer

Builds like Righteous Fire are still playable, but they often feel slower early on and may require more gear to feel strong.

6. Know Your Build’s Limits

Every build has strengths and weaknesses:

• Slam builds are very strong early but may fall behind later

• Damage-over-time builds like poison or ignite are consistent and safe

• Minion builds scale well but can feel slow at the start

• Builds that rely on specific, unique items can be risky early in a league

Knowing this ahead of time helps you set realistic expectations.

7. Be Ready for the Learning Curve

Path of Exile has a steep learning curve, especially for new players. The game expects you to learn systems on your own, so using community tools helps a lot:

• Path of Building for planning

• PoE Ninja for checking popular builds

• YouTube and forums for guides and tips

Websites like MMOexp will continue to share updates, league information, and PoE currency options as PoE 3.28 gets closer.

Final Thoughts

With PoE 3.28 expected in early March 2026, now is a great time to plan your league start. Picking a simple, reliable build and understanding the basics of the upcoming league can make a big difference. A little preparation goes a long way in Path of Exile—and it often turns a stressful league start into an enjoyable one.

MMOexp POE Team