Get ready for a gaming twist that’s bound to shake things up: Pillars of Eternity, the beloved isometric RPG from over a decade ago, is getting a surprise turn-based mode in its latest update. Yes, you heard that right—Obsidian Entertainment, the masterminds behind Fallout: New Vegas and the recently launched The Outer Worlds 2, are breathing new life into this classic. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a nostalgic nod to fans or a bold experiment that risks altering the game’s original charm? Let’s dive in.
This isn’t Obsidian’s first rodeo with turn-based combat. The optional mode introduced in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire laid the groundwork, but this update takes it a step further. The new mode slows down the game’s signature 'real-time with pause' combat, meticulously adapting character stats for turn-based play while allowing players to seamlessly switch between modes mid-game. Game director Josh Sawyer breaks it all down in a revealing trailer, but the real question is: will this hybrid approach satisfy both old-school fans and newcomers? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about mechanics; it’s about preserving the game’s soul while innovating.
Obsidian’s recent ventures, like the first-person RPG Avowed (think Skyrim meets Eora), show their willingness to experiment. Meanwhile, they’re juggling The Outer Worlds 2 and the early access development of Grounded 2, proving they’re not afraid to tackle diverse projects. But revisiting Pillars of Eternity feels personal—a return to roots with a modern twist. The public beta for the turn-based mode launches on PC November 5, and Obsidian is eager for player feedback before finalizing the update. Will this change redefine the game, or is it a step too far? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
