Path of Exile 2's Early Access Boom: Devs Caught Off Guard, Plans Foiled
Path of Exile 2's early access launch last year proved to be a massive event. It attracted a fantastic mob of players. Concurrent player numbers peaked at over 570,000. This level of enthusiasm completely surprised the development team.
Game director Jonathan Rogers explained that their initial concept was much smaller. They intended to use early access to test the game with a relatively small, managed player base. However, millions of players readily jumped into Path of Exile 2. Reality dictated a different approach.
This instant influx of players changed everything immediately. The idea of a limited test disappeared. Rogers admitted they quickly realized they needed to treat the game as fully launched. They faced issues typical of a live, launched game. Players expressed concerns about updates disrupting their established character builds.
"We were instantly getting into scenarios that could only happen with a completely released game," Rogers stated. "Then we realized we have to approach Path of Exile 2 as a fully released game and be very mindful with it."
The team views this disruption positively. While their planned approach was discarded, the sheer volume of player activity and feedback provided immediate, undeniable information. This feedback was crucial for understanding the game's true needs. It forced rapid reactions and in-the-moment adjustments.
"Once the players arrive, all planning at once goes to waste. It ought to. This is proper," Rogers reflected. He emphasized how player involvement clearly guides the right direction forward.
While player numbers have naturally decreased from the initial peak, Path of Exile 2 maintains a healthy player base for an early access game. Ambitious plans are in place for the future. Rogers aims for the eventual full release to surpass their early access record. The company would be dissatisfied if the initial release did not exceed one million concurrent players.
Rogers briefly addressed the situation surrounding Elon Musk's account, which was reportedly power-leveled by another player, when asked. She described the episode as "strange" and offered no further comment.
