Pillars of Eternity on Steam

Pillars of Eternity, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, is a role-playing game that has garnered significant attention and acclaim since its release on Steam in 2015. This game is often regarded as a spiritual successor to the classic Baldur's Gate and Icewind Dale series, offering a deep and engaging gaming experience. With a strong focus on storytelling, exploration, and strategic combat, Pillars of Eternity has become a staple in the RPG genre, appealing to both veterans of the series and newcomers alike.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The gameplay in Pillars of Eternity is characterized by its isometric perspective, allowing players to explore a vast and detailed world filled with lore and history. The game features a real-time pause system, enabling players to issue commands to their party members and control the flow of combat. This mechanic, combined with a deep character creation system and a variety of abilities and spells, provides a high level of strategic depth and replayability. Players can choose from multiple classes, each with its unique abilities and playstyles, and further customize their characters with talents and equipment.

Story and Setting

The story of Pillars of Eternity takes place in the fantasy world of Eora, where players assume the role of a Watcher, an individual with the ability to see into the souls of others and communicate with them. The game’s narrative is heavily focused on player choice, with decisions affecting the world, its inhabitants, and the ultimate outcome of the story. The setting of Eora is rich in lore, with a complex history that influences the present and the actions of its inhabitants. The game’s story explores themes of identity, power, and the consequences of one’s actions, making for a compelling and immersive experience.

Reception and Impact

Pillars of Eternity has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, rich story, and faithful adherence to the traditions of the RPG genre. The game has been praised for its ability to balance complexity and accessibility, making it appealing to a broad range of players. The success of Pillars of Eternity has also led to the development of a sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, which further expands on the game’s mechanics and setting.

Community and Modding

The community surrounding Pillars of Eternity is active and dedicated, with a wide range of user-created content available, including mods that add new characters, quests, and game mechanics. The game’s modding community has been instrumental in extending the game’s lifespan, providing players with new challenges and experiences long after the initial release. The support for modding is a testament to the game’s design and the developers’ commitment to fostering a vibrant and creative community.

In conclusion, Pillars of Eternity is a landmark RPG that has set a high standard for the genre. With its deep gameplay, rich story, and high level of replayability, it is an essential experience for fans of role-playing games. The game's success on Steam is a reflection of its quality and the dedication of its community, making it a must-play for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding RPG experience.