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Path of Exile 2 Navigates Competitive ARPG Landscape
When Path of Exile burst onto the action role-playing game (ARPG) scene, it offered a fresh alternative. For years, Diablo 2 had been the dominant force in the genre, and Diablo 3 was still recovering from a troubled launch. Now, more than a decade later, the landscape has dramatically changed. Diablo 4 has experienced a smoother release, and titles such as Lost Ark, Last Epoch, and Grim Dawn present significant challenges to Path of Exile 2, which remains in early access.
Coexistence in the ARPG Genre
In a recent interview, Path of Exile 2 game director Jonathan Rogers addressed the competitive environment. Rogers stated that dominating the entire ARPG market is not the primary objective. “There is space for numerous different games within the genre,” Rogers commented. “It doesn’t have to be a situation where one single game overshadows all others.”
The Role of Seasonal Updates
Rogers indicated that his relaxed view on competition is partially due to the prevalence of seasonal updates among prominent ARPGs. This format encourages gamers to regularly return to these titles every few months, create new characters, and experience the latest seasonal adjustments and gameplay features.
While seasonal models are present in shooter and battle royale games, often linked to battle passes, Rogers pointed out that ARPG players have particularly embraced this approach.
Seasonal Engagement and Player Expectations
“ARPGs are a genre where the player base has adopted the concept of seasons,” Rogers explained. “Players engage with the game for a period, take a break to explore other games, and then return for the subsequent season. This has become an inherent expectation within the genre, largely influenced by our approach.”
Rogers believes that as long as this trend continues, Path of Exile 2, Diablo 4, and other ARPGs can successfully coexist in the market.
Focus on Player Retention
“I am completely comfortable with the idea of ARPGs from various developers,” he added. “As long as players are willing to return and play our game for approximately one month, four times per year, I consider that a positive outcome.”
Inspiration Beyond the ARPG Genre
Regarding his perspective on competitor games, Rogers admitted he doesn’t extensively play them for inspiration.
“I do engage with them to some extent, but I’m not someone who typically reaches the deep endgame grind in other action RPGs,” Rogers noted. “When seeking inspiration for game design, I typically look outside of our genre. For instance, I might play a game like Civilization and consider interesting mechanics that could be adapted, rather than directly borrowing from other action RPGs.”
Seasonal Formats in ARPGs
The seasonal format has become a staple in ARPGs. Every Diablo game, with the exception of the original, has incorporated seasons. Even games without official seasons, like Grim Dawn, benefit from community-driven seasonal events. This approach aligns naturally with the genre; once a character is fully equipped, starting anew with fresh challenges becomes a compelling option.
Path of Exile 2’s Approach to Player Time
For players who feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of live service games vying for attention and employing “fear of missing out” tactics, it’s reassuring to know that Path of Exile 2 is not aiming to consume every moment of their time.
Path of Exile 2 is currently available in early access on Steam. Grinding Gear Games recently announced details regarding its first major update, which is scheduled for release soon.