Technology

Pillars of Eternity to Introduce Turn-Based Combat, Reviving Interest in Classic RPGs

2025-03-27

Author: Wei

Exciting Announcement from Obsidian Entertainment

Fans of classic RPGs, rejoice! Obsidian Entertainment has just dropped an exciting announcement that will undoubtedly breathe new life into the acclaimed Pillars of Eternity series — a turn-based combat mode is officially on the way! As the game celebrates its 10th anniversary, the introduction of this feature will not only enhance gameplay but will also entice new players to dive into the world of Eora.

A Shift for Accessibility

While exploring the sprawling lore and engaging stories in Obsidian’s latest venture, Avowed, many players have found themselves looking back at the roots of the studio, wondering how Pillars of Eternity might hold up to modern gameplay styles. For those who struggled with the series' real-time-with-pause combat system, the upcoming turn-based mode offers a promising alternative. This change could make the game more accessible, especially for gamers who may feel overwhelmed by the frenetic pace of real-time combat.

Community Engagement and Feedback

In a recent announcement, Obsidian revealed that players can expect to test this new feature later this year. Fans are encouraged to follow Obsidian's social media channels and Discord for updates on how to participate. This direct involvement offers a unique opportunity for the community to shape the game based on feedback, reflecting a growing trend among developers to engage with their players more intimately.

Director's Preference for Turn-Based Systems

The shift towards turn-based mechanics isn’t entirely surprising. Josh Sawyer, the director behind both Pillars of Eternity titles, has expressed a clear preference for turn-based systems in his previous interviews. He argues that these systems allow for more complex strategic gameplay, making it easier for players to grasp the intricacies of character abilities and combat mechanics — something not easily manageable in real-time settings.

Broader Trends in Gaming

Sawyer's insights reflect a broader shift in the gaming landscape, as turn-based systems gain renewed appreciation — a trend largely popularized by the success of titles like Baldur's Gate 3. Many RPG fans now find themselves eager for in-depth strategies and enriched combat scenarios that turn-based gameplay naturally facilitates.

Upcoming Enhancements and Bug Fixes

This announcement aligns with several other enhancements in the upcoming patch, which will not only improve system compatibility for Mac and Linux users but will also rectify long-standing bugs that have plagued the game over the years. The patch aims to ensure that players across platforms can enjoy a smoother experience, along with visual and audio enhancements to elevate the game's atmosphere.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Classic RPGs?

So, can the introduction of turn-based combat into Pillars of Eternity lure a new generation of gamers into the fold, or perhaps encourage older players to revisit the game? One thing is for certain: this update is sure to reignite the passion for classic RPG titles, making them more engaging than ever. Keep an eye on upcoming announcements, as this thrilling addition may just become a game-changer for one of RPG’s beloved classics!