Full Breakdown
Obsidian Entertainment Introduces Turn-Based Mode for Pillars of Eternity
11/4/2025, 11:17:58 PM
Major Update Announcement
Obsidian Entertainment has announced a significant update for its acclaimed RPG, Pillars of Eternity, introducing a turn-based combat mode. This public beta will be available starting November 5, 2025, for players on Steam and Xbox PC. The update aims to enhance the gameplay experience by allowing players to engage in a more tactical approach to combat, a feature that has been well-received in the sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire.
Key Features of Turn-Based Mode
The new turn-based mode incorporates several enhancements based on community feedback and lessons learned from Deadfire. Key features include:
- Unbound Turns: Turn order is now influenced by a character's speed, making attributes like Dexterity more impactful.
- Smarter Free Actions: Actions such as swapping weapons or using potions are now classified as free actions, limited to one per turn per type to maintain balance.
- Increased Combat Lethality: Both player and enemy damage output has been significantly raised, ensuring that battles are more decisive and engaging.
- Flexibility in Gameplay: Players can choose between turn-based and real-time with pause combat modes at the start of a new game or switch freely during gameplay.
Development Insights
Josh Sawyer, the game director, emphasized that the decision to add a turn-based mode stemmed from the positive reception of similar mechanics in Deadfire. He acknowledged previous criticisms regarding the pacing and mechanics of turn-based combat in Deadfire and stated, “There were a number of very reasonable criticisms of how turn-based mode was implemented in Deadfire.” The new mode aims to address these issues while preserving the depth and complexity that fans appreciate.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The beta phase is designed to gather player feedback, allowing Obsidian to make necessary adjustments before the mode's full release. The studio has not set an end date for the beta, indicating an iterative process similar to the development of Deadfire’s turn-based mode. Sawyer has also hinted at the possibility of a third installment in the Pillars of Eternity series, suggesting that if it were to happen, it would likely adopt a 3D format and incorporate lessons from recent RPG successes like Baldur's Gate 3.
Conclusion
The introduction of a turn-based mode in Pillars of Eternity represents a significant evolution in the game, catering to both longtime fans and newcomers. With the public beta launching on November 5, players will have the opportunity to experience these changes firsthand and contribute to the ongoing development of this beloved title. As Obsidian continues to expand the Pillars universe, the studio's commitment to player feedback and innovative gameplay remains evident.
