Pillars of Eternity Embraces Turn-Based Combat: A New Era for a Beloved RPG
Obsidian Entertainment is poised to substantially reshape the experience for fans of Pillars of eternity wiht the introduction of a fully-fledged turn-based combat mode.This represents a major evolution for the critically acclaimed RPG, offering players unprecedented control and strategic depth.You’ll be able to dive into this new system starting November 5th with the launch of a public beta.
This addition isn’t simply a tacked-on feature; it’s a carefully considered response to player feedback and a natural progression stemming from lessons learned during the development of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire.The studio recognized a desire for more tactical options, and they’re delivering.
A Combat System Refined by Player Input
Obsidian didn’t just port over a turn-based system.They’ve actively improved the real-time combat experience based on what you, the players, enjoyed in Deadfire. Here’s a breakdown of the key enhancements:
* Unbound Turns: Character speed now directly influences turn order, making speed-boosting attributes and abilities more valuable than ever.
* Smarter Free Actions: Swapping weapons, using potions, and activating abilities are now considered “free actions,” limited to one per turn per type to maintain balance.
* Faster Pacing: combat is now more lethal for both you and your enemies, ensuring every encounter feels tense and impactful.
* Mode Adaptability: You can select Turn-Based Mode alongside your desired difficulty when starting a new game. Alternatively, seamlessly switch between real-time with pause and turn-based combat directly within the game options.
This level of flexibility is crucial. You’re not locked into a single combat style; you can adapt to your preferences and the challenges of each encounter. The studio is even exploring a dedicated HUD toggle for even quicker mode switching.
A Beta Test with a Long-Term Vision
The public beta doesn’t have a set end date currently. Obsidian intends to continually refine the turn-based mode based on your feedback before officially integrating it as a permanent feature. This commitment to iterative development demonstrates a dedication to delivering a polished and satisfying experience.
Looking Ahead: the Future of Pillars of Eternity
Director Josh Sawyer has hinted at exciting possibilities for a potential Pillars of Eternity 3. If the project moves forward, it would likely embrace the innovations of Baldur’s Gate 3, transitioning to a full 3D viewpoint. This signals a willingness to evolve the series while retaining its core strengths.
Obsidian recently released Avowed, a first-person action RPG set within the same universe as pillars of Eternity. This further expands the lore of Eora and demonstrates the studio’s continued investment in this rich and immersive world.
Ultimately, the addition of turn-based combat to Pillars of Eternity is a testament to Obsidian’s responsiveness to its community and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of the RPG genre. It’s a change that promises to breathe new life into a beloved classic and attract a wider audience.
