10-Year-Old CRPG Classic Gets a Major Update: Turn-Based Combat Coming to Pillars of Eternity

A New Era for Pillars of Eternity: Turn-Based Combat is Coming!

As I reflect on my gaming journey, I’m reminded of the countless hours I spent exploring the world of Eora in Obsidian’s Pillars of Eternity series. While I appreciated the game’s ability to offer both lore-rich storytelling and fast-paced action, I must admit that I never delved into the earlier games in the series. That is, until I stumbled upon the latest patch notes for the 10-year-old CRPG classic, which revealed a surprising addition that has me excited: turn-based combat is coming to Pillars of Eternity!

For those who, like me, struggled with the real-time-with-pause combat system in the original game, this news is a game-changer. As designer Josh Sawyer so aptly put it, “Turn-based was my stated preference, and I think it’s easier to design more intricate combats.” The addition of turn-based combat to Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire in patch 4.1 was a welcome change, and it’s clear that Obsidian is committed to providing players with a more accessible and enjoyable experience.

But what does this mean for the original Pillars of Eternity? While the game wasn’t designed with turn-based combat in mind, Sawyer acknowledges that there could be lessons learned from the transformation of PoE 2. This is a significant development, as it suggests that even older games can be updated to accommodate changing player preferences.

The 10th anniversary patch for Pillars of Eternity is more than just a nod to the game’s legacy, however. It also includes a range of improvements, such as easier bug fixes for Mac and Linux users, and the ability for players on GOG and Epic to access Kickstarter rewards and achievements. Additionally, the patch addresses various audio and visual effects, as well as mechanical and combat fixes.

So, what does this mean for players like me who never got around to playing the earlier games in the series? It means that we have a second chance to experience the world of Eora in a way that’s more accessible and enjoyable. And for those who have already played the game, it’s an opportunity to revisit a classic with a fresh perspective.

Actionable Insights:

  • If you’re new to the Pillars of Eternity series, now is the perfect time to jump in and experience the game with turn-based combat.
  • If you’re a veteran player, consider revisiting the game to see how the new combat system changes your experience.
  • Keep an eye on Obsidian’s social media and Discord channels for updates on how to sign up for the turn-based combat testing.

Summary:

The latest patch notes for Pillars of Eternity have brought a surprise gift to fans of the game: turn-based combat is coming! This addition is a significant development, as it acknowledges the changing preferences of players and provides a more accessible experience. The 10th anniversary patch also includes a range of improvements, making it the perfect time to revisit this classic CRPG. Whether you’re new to the series or a veteran player, there’s never been a better time to experience the world of Eora.