Video Game

Pillars of Eternity: A New Classic in Isometric RPGs

Posted by David McKenzie on

Video Game Review: Pillars of Eternity and Its Expansions

Overall Rating: 9.0/10

  • Gameplay: 9.2/10
  • Graphics and Art Design: 8.8/10
  • Sound and Music: 9.0/10
  • Replayability: 8.5/10
  • Performance and Optimization: 9.0/10

Introduction

Pillars of Eternity, developed by Obsidian Entertainment and released in 2015, is a role-playing game (RPG) that pays homage to classic isometric RPGs like Baldur’s Gate and Planescape: Torment. Funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign, the game immerses players in the rich, original world of Eora, where they embark on epic quests, engage in strategic combat, and make impactful choices. The game has received critical acclaim for its depth, storytelling, and mechanics. ​

Gameplay (9.2/10)

Pillars of Eternity offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience that combines exploration, character development, and tactical combat.​

Strengths:

  • Complex Combat System: The game features real-time combat with pause, allowing for strategic planning and execution. Players can customize their party’s tactics, making each encounter both challenging and rewarding. ​en.wikipedia.org
  • Rich Character Development: With a variety of races, classes, and backgrounds, players can create unique characters and companions, each with their own stories and abilities.​
  • Meaningful Choices: Player decisions significantly impact the world and narrative, offering a dynamic and personalized experience.​

Weaknesses:

  • Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the game’s mechanics complex, requiring time to fully grasp the depth of its systems.​

Graphics and Art Design (8.8/10)

The game boasts a visually appealing art style that captures the essence of classic RPGs while incorporating modern enhancements.​

Strengths:

  • Detailed Environments: Hand-painted backgrounds and intricate details create an immersive world that invites exploration.​
  • Atmospheric Lighting: Effective use of lighting and shadows enhances the mood and depth of various locations.​

Weaknesses:

  • Dated Visuals: Some critics have noted that, despite its charm, the art style may appear dated compared to contemporary titles. ​en.wikipedia.org

Sound and Music (9.0/10)

The auditory elements of Pillars of Eternity significantly contribute to its immersive experience.​

Strengths:

  • Memorable Soundtrack: The game’s music complements its fantasy setting, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments.​
  • Quality Voice Acting: Well-executed voice performances bring characters to life, adding depth to the narrative.​

Weaknesses:

  • Inconsistent Voice Coverage: Not all dialogue is voiced, which can be jarring during interactions.​

Replayability (8.5/10)

The game’s branching narratives and character customization options encourage multiple playthroughs.​

Strengths:

  • Diverse Story Paths: Choices lead to different outcomes, encouraging exploration of various narrative branches.​
  • Varied Character Builds: The multitude of class and skill combinations offers fresh experiences in subsequent playthroughs.​

Weaknesses:

  • Predictable Quests: Some side quests may feel repetitive, potentially diminishing replay value.​

Performance and Optimization (9.0/10)

Pillars of Eternity runs smoothly across various platforms, with minimal technical issues reported.​

Strengths:

  • Stable Performance: Players experience few crashes or bugs, contributing to an enjoyable experience.​
  • Efficient Load Times: Quick transitions between areas maintain immersion.​

Weaknesses:

  • Occasional Pathfinding Issues: Companion AI may struggle with navigation in complex environments.​

Expansions Overview

Pillars of Eternity has been expanded through additional content, enriching the base game with new challenges and narratives.​

  1. The White March – Part I (2015):
    • Content: Introduces new areas, quests, companions, and raises the level cap.​
    • Reception: Generally favorable reviews, praised for challenging combat and additional content, though some criticism for excessive focus on combat. ​en.wikipedia.org
  2. The White March – Part II (2016):
    • Content: Continues the story from Part I, adds new abilities, and concludes the expansion’s narrative.​en.wikipedia.org
    • Reception: More favorable than Part I, lauded for its engaging story and satisfying conclusion. ​en.wikipedia.org

Conclusion

Pillars of Eternity stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic RPG mechanics, revitalized for a modern audience. Its intricate storytelling, complex combat, and immersive world-building have solidified its place as a beloved title among RPG enthusiasts. The expansions further enrich the experience, offering new challenges and narratives that complement the base game. For those seeking a deep, rewarding RPG experience, Pillars of Eternity and its expansions are highly recommended.​

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