The skillet way is traditional. You have to stir constantly. Turn your back for 90 seconds and you will scorch it. Little black specs and a bitter back taste.
I often concede to a blonder roux with less risk of burning it.
We have stayed at Poches In Breaux Bridge many times. We love the area (and food)..
I had the gumbo-okra conversation with the locals and its divided about half and half agreeing disagree with me.
I got the line about being soup not gumbo from a native..
Controversy? Potato salad in your gumbo or not!
Kind of like Ohio Chili and Texas chili.