**A Significant Change for Pillars of Eternity**
Obsidian Entertainment is revisiting one of its most acclaimed RPGs with a major update. Nearly a decade after its 2015 release, *Pillars of Eternity* is getting a brand new turn-based mode, marking one of the most significant overhauls in the series’ history. Players will be able to try the new system when the public beta goes live on November 5.
The update, announced on the game’s official site, reimagines combat by shifting from the classic real-time with pause setup to a more deliberate, tactical structure. The new mode draws inspiration from *Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire*, while introducing several refinements based on fan feedback. Obsidian has also released a trailer showcasing how battles unfold in the updated format.
Among the most notable tweaks are changes to pacing and combat flow. Turns now depend on a character’s overall speed, making real-time attributes more meaningful. Free actions such as weapon swaps, potion use, or toggling abilities no longer consume a turn, though each can only be used once per type for balance. Additionally, lethality has been increased across the board, ensuring that every encounter feels more intense.
Flexibility is another key focus. Players can start a new game in either real-time or turn-based mode, or switch between the two at any time. Obsidian is also exploring a HUD toggle for even easier transitions.
The beta currently has no set end date, with ongoing updates planned until the feature becomes a permanent addition.
Meanwhile, series director Josh Sawyer has hinted that if *Pillars of Eternity 3* ever happens, it could follow in the footsteps of *Baldur’s Gate 3*, adopting a 3D perspective.
Earlier this year, Obsidian also expanded the universe with *Avowed*, an action RPG set in the same world, further enriching the lore and fan experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as the beta progresses!
https://cogconnected.com/2025/11/pillars-of-eternity-adds-turn-based-mode-in-major-beta-update-this-week/