Title: Pillars of Eternity Celebrates 10 Years: Commemorating a Decade with Turn-Based Combat
A decade ago, Obsidian Entertainment’s Pillars of Eternity reignited interest in classic role-playing games (RPGs), demonstrating that the genre was still vibrant. Released in 2015, the title served as a tribute to the heyday of isometric RPGs such as Baldur’s Gate and Planescape: Torment. Now, marking its tenth anniversary, Pillars of Eternity is set to receive a significant update featuring a highly-anticipated addition: a complete turn-based combat system.
This update not only pays homage to the game’s history but also aligns it with contemporary RPG tendencies, providing players with a fresh avenue to immerse themselves in the expansive world of Eora.
A Decade of Legacy
Pillars of Eternity emerged from a highly successful Kickstarter initiative that garnered more than $4 million, indicating a strong appetite for the revival of deep, narrative-focused RPGs. The game fulfilled its promise with a multi-layered narrative, elaborate character progression, and strategic combat. It received widespread acclaim, achieving a score of 92 in reviews, and played a crucial role in the resurgence of traditional RPGs.
Set within the intricately crafted world of Eora, the game delves into philosophical discussions surrounding the soul, identity, and morality. Players embody a “Watcher,” an entity able to perceive and engage with souls, and are pulled into a mystery that traverses both metaphysical and political territories of the game’s setting.
Real-Time with Pause vs. Turn-Based Combat
A long-standing discussion among RPG enthusiasts revolves around preferred combat systems: real-time with pause versus turn-based. Real-time with pause, made famous by the original Baldur’s Gate series, provides dynamic action while allowing players to micromanage their party. Conversely, turn-based combat offers a more strategic and calculated experience, as showcased in modern releases such as Baldur’s Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin 2.
Both combat styles have their advantages, and increasingly, RPGs are providing both options to appeal to a broader audience. Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire introduced a turn-based mode post-release, and now its predecessor will follow suit.
Turn-Based Combat Arrives in Pillars of Eternity
In a recent social media announcement, Obsidian disclosed that a new turn-based combat option is currently in development for Pillars of Eternity and is scheduled for release later this year. While a precise launch date has yet to be set, the update is anticipated to function similarly to the system introduced in Deadfire. Players will likely have to decide between real-time with pause or turn-based combat at the start of their playthrough, as switching systems mid-game will not be supported.
This update represents more than a mere gameplay adjustment—it’s a profound reimagining of battle mechanics in the game. While the original system depended on timers and automated actions, the turn-based mode will enable players to exert complete control over each character’s actions in a structured, round-based format. This change is particularly appealing to fans of tactical gameplay and those transitioning from modern turn-based RPGs.
Why It Works
The shift from real-time to turn-based combat is no trivial task, but it aligns naturally with a game like Pillars of Eternity. The game’s mechanics draw heavily from tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons, which are inherently turn-based. In fact, even the real-time format mimics turn-based elements beneath the surface, utilizing timers and initiative rolls to determine action sequences.
Several other games have successfully navigated this transition. Owlcat Games’ Pathfinder series allows players to switch between both systems, and Deadfire’s turn-based mode received positive feedback. These examples suggest that Pillars of Eternity’s new mode will be a welcome enhancement and implemented thoughtfully.
A Fresh Reason to Return to Eora
For series veterans, the turn-based mode presents an enticing reason to revisit Eora and engage with the narrative from a new tactical viewpoint. For newcomers—particularly those who were introduced to the genre via Baldur’s Gate 3—it eases the entry point by providing a more recognizable combat system.
Though Pillars of Eternity may not rival the visual quality or extensive gameplay systems of more recent titles, it remains a standout in storytelling, world-building, and character development. The incorporation of turn-based combat only boosts its attractiveness, rendering it more accessible and enjoyable for a larger audience.
Looking Forward
The forthcoming update exemplifies Obsidian’s ongoing dedication to its titles and its commitment to the RPG community. As the studio concurrently develops Avowed, a new action RPG set in the same universe, interest in Pillars of Eternity is expected to rise once more.
Whether you’re a long-standing admirer or a curious newcomer, there’s no better time to delve into the world of Pillars of Eternity. With turn-based combat enhancement,