Pillars of Eternity Turn-Based Mode Beta Announced
Obsidian Entertainment is breathing new life into a modern classic, announcing an open beta for a long-requested turn-based mode for the original Pillars of Eternity. The surprise update, which enters public beta testing on PC this week starting November 5th, is being positioned as a special tenth-anniversary gift for fans of the critically acclaimed RPG. The new mode aims to refine the turn-based formula by directly addressing feedback from its implementation in the game's sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire.
In a development announcement, Game Director Josh Sawyer confirmed the team is actively seeking player feedback to perfect the mode before its official launch. More importantly, he noted that the studio has already been hard at work applying lessons learned from the sequel's foray into turn-based combat, addressing what he called "very reasonable criticisms" from the community to ensure this new version is the definitive experience.
A Classic Reimagined: From Pause to Turns
The original Pillars of Eternity launched as a triumphant return to the "real-time with pause" (RTWP) combat system, a hallmark of classic CRPGs like Baldur's Gate and Icewind Dale. This system allows players to issue commands to their party in real-time while pausing the action at any moment to think strategically. While beloved by veterans, the often-chaotic pace could be overwhelming for newcomers or players who prefer a more methodical, chess-like approach to combat.
The introduction of an official turn-based mode fundamentally alters the flow of every combat encounter. Instead of managing a battlefield in real-time, players will now experience combat through a structured, initiative-based sequence. This change offers several key benefits:
- Tactical Clarity: Each character gets a dedicated turn, allowing players to carefully consider their positioning, ability usage, and resource management without the pressure of simultaneous action.
- Heightened Impact: Spells and abilities with casting times or specific areas of effect become easier to manage and deploy with maximum impact.
- Improved Accessibility: Players who find RTWP combat hectic or confusing can now engage with the game's deep combat systems at their own pace.
Building on the Foundation of Deadfire
When Obsidian first introduced a turn-based mode post-launch for Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, it was met with widespread praise. For many, it became the definitive way to play the seafaring sequel. However, the process of retrofitting a turn-based system onto a game designed for RTWP combat was not without its challenges.
Sawyer acknowledged that the development team has spent considerable time analyzing player feedback from the Deadfire implementation. Criticisms often centered on the pacing of combat, with some encounters feeling slower than intended, and the translation of certain real-time abilities into a turn-based framework. The goal for this new beta is to deliver a version that feels seamlessly integrated into the original game, as if it were designed that way from the start. This involves rebalancing certain mechanics and ensuring the flow of combat remains engaging from the first battle to the last.
How to Participate in the Beta
Players who own Pillars of Eternity on PC platforms like Steam will be able to opt-in to the open beta to test the new mode. While specific instructions will be released with the launch, the process typically involves accessing the game's properties in your library, navigating to a "Betas" tab, and selecting the public beta branch from a dropdown menu.
Obsidian is encouraging all participants to provide constructive feedback, which will be vital for balancing and polishing the mode ahead of its full, official release. This beta gives the community a direct hand in shaping a feature that will redefine how a modern RPG classic is played for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the Pillars of Eternity turn-based mode beta start?The open beta is scheduled to begin on November 5th for PC players.
Is this new mode for the first Pillars of Eternity or the sequel, Deadfire?This new turn-based mode beta is exclusively for the first Pillars of Eternity. The sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, already has its own fully released turn-based mode.
Will the turn-based mode be a free update?Yes, this feature is being developed as a free update for all owners of the game, described by the studio as a thank you to the community and a celebration of the game's upcoming anniversary.
Does this change the original real-time with pause combat?No, the original RTWP combat system will remain fully intact. The turn-based mode is an optional feature that players can choose when starting a new game, allowing them to play in the style they prefer.