Valve has listed Path of Exile 2 as a Steam Deck Verified game. The full 1.0 release is scheduled for December 11, ending paid Early Access and transitioning to free-to-play.
The full release will also complete the main storyline and add the Duelist class, bringing swords into the game. These features, along with the transition to free-to-play, will all be implemented with the 1.0 version.
Prior to this, developer Grinding Gear Games released an update in May that adjusted the game's endgame content. The game supports pausing and controller input; players can progress through main story areas or play endgame maps on handheld devices. Tasks such as crafting can be saved for when using a keyboard and mouse.
Regarding performance, Grinding Gear Games stated in late July that the team had resolved some persistent performance issues after extensive testing. The testing process included running simulations and sending an entire computer to NVIDIA engineers for troubleshooting.
Currently, the starting price for Early Access is $29.99 or £23.93, which includes in-game currency that can be used to purchase additional stash tabs or cosmetic items. Grinding Gear Games has stated that these items do not affect gameplay.