Is Pillars of Eternity 2D or 3D? Unpacking the Visual Style of Obsidian’s Classic RPG
The question of whether Pillars of Eternity is a 2D or 3D game is a common one, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. The short answer is that Pillars of Eternity is primarily a 2D game, with 3D elements. More specifically, the game utilizes 2D pre-rendered backgrounds upon which 3D character models are superimposed. This blend of techniques gives the game its distinctive visual style, evoking classic isometric RPGs while incorporating the benefits of modern 3D modeling for its characters and combat effects. This approach is key to both games in the series: Pillars of Eternity and Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire.
This hybrid approach is crucial to understanding the game’s visual presentation. The backgrounds aren’t flat, static images; they are pre-rendered in 3D, and then presented from an isometric viewpoint, creating a convincing illusion of depth. This allows for highly detailed and evocative environments that would be significantly more expensive and time-consuming to produce using fully real-time 3D rendering.
However, the characters, creatures, and many of the combat effects are rendered in real-time 3D, allowing for more detailed animations and flexibility. This dual system provides a great balance, capturing the classic feel of older RPGs while adding the visual richness and dynamic elements of modern gaming.
The Blend of 2D and 3D: Why Did They Choose This Approach?
A Nod to the Classics
The developers at Obsidian Entertainment openly acknowledge their inspiration from classic RPGs like Baldur’s Gate and Icewind Dale. These games utilized a similar system of pre-rendered backgrounds and 2D sprites for characters. By adopting a similar approach, Pillars of Eternity immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia for fans of these older titles. This is not to say it’s a step backward though. The jump to 3D character models allows for a level of detail and animation far beyond what was possible in the earlier isometric RPGs.
Efficiency and Artistic Control
Pre-rendering backgrounds is more efficient in terms of resource usage than rendering entire environments in real-time 3D. This efficiency allows for more detailed environments without demanding very high end hardware. Additionally, pre-rendered backgrounds afford the artists more direct control over the visual presentation, allowing for more elaborate, detailed, and aesthetically pleasing environments.
Character Animation and Dynamic Effects
While the static elements of the environment benefit from pre-rendering, the 3D character models ensure that animation is fluid and expressive, with dynamic combat effects that would be challenging to create with 2D sprites. The 3D characters also allow for a variety of customisation options. The blend allows for the best of both worlds; the detailed, controlled look of 2D with the dynamic animations of 3D.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the visual style, gameplay, and development aspects of Pillars of Eternity, covering various topics for a complete understanding of the game.
1. Is Pillars of Eternity’s gameplay turn-based or real-time?
Pillars of Eternity offers both a real-time with pause mode and a turn-based mode. Players can choose their preferred method at the start of a new game. The original Pillars of Eternity launched with only real-time with pause, but Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire included turn-based as an optional mode.
2. Is Pillars of Eternity based on Dungeons & Dragons?
While the Pillars of Eternity games are not explicitly based on any D&D ruleset, they are heavily inspired by tabletop fantasy role-playing games, including aspects of D&D, notably the 4th edition. However, the game employs a proprietary rule system created specifically for it, aiming to capture the essence of traditional tabletop gaming while adapting it for a computer game.
3. How does the combat system in Pillars of Eternity work?
The combat system is designed around the core principles of tabletop RPGs, with a strategic approach. In both modes, the player controls a party of adventurers and must utilize their different skills and positions to defeat their enemies. In real-time with pause, players can pause the game at any time to issue commands and reassess the tactical situation. In turn-based mode, combat progresses in sequential turns, enhancing strategic depth.
4. How does making a 3D game compare to making a 2D game?
Developing 3D games is typically more complex and resource-intensive than developing 2D games. 3D development requires attention to camera systems, 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and the creation of a fully explorable world. 2D development is typically less time-consuming and is often cheaper.
5. What are the advantages of 2D vs 3D game development?
2D game development is often cheaper and faster, allowing for quicker iterations and a focus on core gameplay mechanics. 3D game development, although more complex, offers the potential for more immersive and visually advanced experiences.
6. Is the story in Pillars of Eternity 1 or 2 better?
Many players argue that Pillars of Eternity had a more engaging story and characters, especially during the earlier chapters of the game. Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is often praised for having a better character-building system, but the overall story and pacing might not resonate with some players as strongly. It depends on personal preference.
7. How long does it take to complete Pillars of Eternity 1 and 2?
The main story of Pillars of Eternity takes around 36 hours, while completing everything will take around 109 hours. For Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, the main story is around 42 hours, with full completion taking around 96 hours.
8. Is Pillars of Eternity an open-world game?
While both games offer large and expansive areas that you can explore, they are not strictly open-world in the way some games are. The stories are more linear, and areas are gated based on the level of the characters. You are free to explore, but venturing into high-level areas before you are ready can lead to very quick defeats.
9. Is Pillars of Eternity II a direct sequel to Pillars of Eternity?
Yes, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a direct sequel to the first game. The story continues from where the first game left off, and many of the characters reappear, but it is designed so new players can enjoy the game, with a starting choice to import game progress or make choices based on the first game’s outcome.
10. How is Pillars of Eternity inspired by other classic RPGs?
Pillars of Eternity draws heavy inspiration from classic CRPGs such as the Baldur’s Gate series, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment. This influence can be seen in its isometric perspective, complex character progression systems, and focus on detailed world-building and storytelling.
11. Are the main characters in Pillars of Eternity fully voiced?
The main characters in Pillars of Eternity do have voiced lines, but the game is inconsistent with what is voiced and what isn’t. You might find some lines of dialogue fully voiced, while others are not. It varies throughout the game.
12. Is Pillars of Eternity 2 standalone?
While Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire can technically be played without prior knowledge of the first game, it does act as a direct sequel. There are many story threads and character relationships carried over. To fully appreciate the story and its nuances, it is recommended to play Pillars of Eternity first.
13. What are the downsides of 2D games?
One of the downsides of 2D games is that they can be limited in movement to four directions and can lack the perspective and visual complexity of 3D. This may lead to some limitations for the player.
14. What is the level cap in Pillars of Eternity?
In Pillars of Eternity, the level cap has been increased to 14. In Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, the level cap has been increased to 16.
15. Why are 2D games still popular?
2D games retain popularity because they often have a lower barrier to entry for players, and can be more forgiving to new players than 3D titles. They can also be less resource-intensive, and may offer a more artistic feel than 3D games.
In conclusion, Pillars of Eternity and its sequel skillfully blend 2D and 3D technologies to create an engaging visual experience. The games capture the essence of classic isometric RPGs while incorporating the benefits of modern 3D rendering. This unique approach is a large part of what makes the games so compelling to fans of classic RPGs and allows for a unique blend of detail, artistry, and playability.