Path of Exile Was 'One Issue Away' From Steam Deck Verification
For fans of Path of Exile (PoE), the journey with Grinding Gear Games' critically acclaimed action RPG on the Steam Deck has been a blend of excitement and slight frustration. While the community eagerly awaits the release of Path of Exile 2 (PoE2) and its promising WASD controls, it's worth revisiting why the original game came tantalizingly close to being Steam Deck Verified, yet missed the mark by a hair.
The Near Miss
During a recent interview with MMORPG.com at a PoE2 press event, Game Director Jonathan Rogers revealed some interesting insights into the verification status of the original Path of Exile on the Steam Deck. According to Rogers, the game was “one issue away” from achieving full verification status. This proximity to POE currency trade verification raises questions about what held the game back and what this means for the sequel.
Rogers did not specify the exact nature of the issue preventing full verification but emphasized that it was a singular, albeit significant, hurdle. This revelation underscores how close Grinding Gear Games (GGG) came to making Path of Exile a perfect fit for Valve's handheld gaming device. The Steam Deck, known for its flexibility and robust performance, seemed like an ideal platform for a complex, deep game like Path of Exile. Yet, one nagging issue prevented the game from achieving this coveted status.
Geographic Hurdles
One of the more peculiar challenges faced by GGG in achieving Steam Deck Verification is their geographical location. The company is based in New Zealand, a country that Valve does not ship the Steam Deck to. This logistical hurdle adds a layer of complexity to the testing and optimization process. Without easy access to the hardware, the developers at GGG have faced significant barriers in ensuring that their game meets the necessary standards for verification.
Rogers humorously acknowledged this issue, suggesting the need to "smuggle" a Steam Deck into New Zealand. While his comment was made in jest, it highlights the genuine difficulty faced by the team. Despite Valve founder Gabe Newell's move to New Zealand and his expressed admiration for the region, the lack of Steam Deck availability there has created an ironic twist in the tale of Path of Exile’s journey towards verification.
The Significance of Steam Deck Verification
Steam Deck Verification is more than just a badge of honor; it assures players that a game will run smoothly and be fully compatible with the device's controls and screen. For a game like Path of Exile, known for its intricate gameplay mechanics and detailed visuals, achieving verification would mean a seamless experience for players on the go.
For many fans, the Steam Deck represents a new way to experience their favorite games, offering the power of a PC in a portable format. For Path of Exile, this means potentially expanding its already massive player base by providing an optimized experience on a popular new platform. Missing out on verification could limit this opportunity, making the minor issue that prevented full verification all the more impactful.
Looking Forward: Path of Exile 2
With Path of Exile 2 on the horizon, there is renewed hope among fans and the development team alike. The sequel promises significant improvements and new features, including the highly anticipated WASD control scheme. This new control method is expected to enhance the gameplay experience, making it more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for those who prefer a more traditional PC gaming setup.
The introduction of WASD controls in PoE2 is a notable departure from the original's reliance on mouse-based movement and actions. This change could potentially make the game more suited to the Steam Deck’s control scheme, which incorporates both a touchpad and thumbsticks, alongside traditional buttons. This alignment with the Steam Deck's hardware capabilities bodes well for the sequel's prospects of achieving verification status.
Console Development and Future Prospects
In addition to the Steam Deck, the question of Path of Exile 2's availability on other consoles remains open. During the same interview, Rogers confirmed that there is a dedicated team working on console development. However, he did not provide any official word or confirmation about when or if PoE2 will launch on these platforms. The wait for console players continues, with many hoping for simultaneous or near-simultaneous releases across all major platforms.
The move to include WASD controls and the emphasis on broader platform compatibility signal GGG’s commitment to expanding its audience. By addressing the challenges faced in the original game’s Steam Deck verification process, there is potential for PoE2 to not only meet but exceed expectations across various platforms.
Community Expectations and Developer Commitments
The community around Path of Exile is known for its passionate engagement and high expectations. The near miss of Steam Deck verification for the Path of exile currency original game was a disappointment for some, but it also highlighted the meticulous standards that GGG maintains. The company's commitment to quality and player experience is evident, even if it means navigating complex logistical and technical challenges.
As anticipation builds for Path of Exile 2, the community remains hopeful that GGG will overcome these hurdles. The promise of new control schemes, potential Steam Deck Verification, and broader console availability are all factors that keep the excitement alive. For GGG, meeting these expectations is not just about technical achievements but about continuing to foster and grow a dedicated player base that has supported them for years.
Conclusion
The journey of Path of Exile towards Steam Deck Verification is a testament to the complexities of game development in a global context. Despite the geographical and logistical challenges, Grinding Gear Games has shown resilience and a commitment to enhancing player experiences. As we look forward to Path of Exile 2, the lessons learned from the original game's near-verification miss are sure to inform and improve the development process.
With the promise of WASD controls and a keen eye on Steam Deck compatibility, Path of Exile 2 is poised to deliver an even richer and more accessible gaming experience. Whether on the Steam Deck, traditional PCs, or potentially other consoles, the future looks bright for fans of this beloved action RPG.
