So contrary to what they initially claimed (that Ascended was planned all along), Colin specifically states in that interview that Exotic WAS supposed to be final tier and Ascended was added because they underestimated how quickly people would get Exotic.
Ignoring the fact that people like being able to get max stat gear quickly so they then only have to worry about aesthetics, here we have proven that ArenaNet did outright LIE back in November, and that Ascended WASN’T planned prior to release.
It definately wasnt planned, you can see that it was conjured up very fast and shoved in the game by mere craptastic implementation.
Colin Johanson: “Everyone, including casual gamers, by level 80 should have the
best statistical loot in the game. We want everyone on an equal power base.”