Path of Exile 2 Dev on AAA: “That’s Not Where the Action Is”

I sat down with Path of Exile 2 Game Director Jonathan Rogers to talk about everything coming in the next major update, including the long-awaited Druid class, the design challenges behind Wolf, Bear, and Wyvern forms, and how 0.4 moves POE2 closer to full release. Jonathan also explains how the team is improving performance, expanding endgame goals, and preparing players for what comes next.We also dig deeper into GGG’s design philosophy, why the studio has “always been against dark patterns,” and how their approach to monetization and player trust shapes the future of the game. Jonathan shares why he personally wrote the gameplay code for the new league, how POE2 compares to POE1, and why he feels AAA studios “aren’t where the action is” anymore as indie hits gain momentum.Whether you're excited for the Druid, curious about the release timeline, interested in ARPG development, or just want more insight into Grinding Gear Games’ approach, this conversation is packed with new info, behind-the-scenes stories, and a few surprises straight from the source.(00:00) Intro(00:36) GGG Favorite New Addition(01:32) Druid's Evolution(04:02) Endgame Grind(05:50) Important(06:25) POE1 vs POE2 SteamDB Figures(09:00) POE1 vs POE2 Satisfaction(11:05) Steam Deck Performance(12:39) Is AAA Innovation Dead?(14:11) Dark Patterns(19:17) Navigating Community Criticism(20:17) GOTY(21:23) Map Inspirations?(23:35) Script Writing(24:20) Consultants(25:35) Proud Accomplishments(27:19) Wyvern Inspirations(27:40) Top Class(30:30) Time Mechanic (31:50) Cosmetics That Didn't Sell(32:30) Excited Topics(32:54) POE2 Release Date(34:38) Class Equiptment(35:09) Druid Beast Forms(35:51) Messing with Streamers(36:09) Flesh Surgeon(36:49) Maps Repeat Q(37:57) Lightning Arrow Buffs(38:29) Endgame(40:29) Druid Hurdles(42:36) Performance Buffs(44:24) Performance Causes(45:17) Wyvern Inspirations(46:16) Druids Uniques(46:45) Druid Skins