Like most MMORPGs, Path of Exile 2 is riddled with bugs from time to time. If you were unfortunate enough to get the Failed to Connect to Instance bug, then there are a few workarounds for it that you could try. This guide will explain how to fix the Failed to Connect Instance error in POE 2.
Path of Exile 2 – Failed to Connect to Instance Fix

If you receive this error message, you could either restart your internet, reboot the game, or create a new instance. The easiest of the three is to create a new instance, which is done by launching the game, selecting the Zone entrance or waypoint on the map, and then pressing the CTRL+Left click (PC)/ Triangle (PS)/ Y (Xbox) buttons. This will bring up the Instance Manager; select the New button on the left side of the menu to start a new instance.
Another trick to try is to reboot your router or change networks. You could also switch to a mobile hotspot or use the Ethernet cable to directly connect to your system or console. If this still doesn’t help, enable VPN and select the fastest location. Ensure that PoE 2 is whitelisted on your antivirus software or firewall, or disable them for the time being. If all else fails, then the only tip that you could implement is to reboot your system or reinstall the game.
The error is also likely to be because of the huge rush of players looking to join the free trial over the weekend that was announced along with the 0.3.0 update for Path of Exile 2. The chances of this error occurring are likely to come down substantially once the free-to-play window gets over on Monday.
Path of Exile 2 might seem bugged , but the game still has plenty to offer whenever it does run smoothly. Check out our other guides on Path of Exile 2 like Has Martial Tempo Been Removed, League Starter Blood Mage build guide, and How To Get Combat Frenzy.