What is Pillars of Eternity Inspired By?
Pillars of Eternity, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, is deeply rooted in the rich history of classic computer role-playing games (CRPGs). Primarily, it draws immense inspiration from the Infinity Engine games of the late 1990s and early 2000s, most notably Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2, Icewind Dale 1 & 2, and Planescape: Torment. This influence is not just superficial; it permeates the game’s mechanics, art style, narrative structure, and overall feel. Obsidian sought to recapture the magic of these beloved titles, offering a modern interpretation with updated graphics and mechanics while retaining the core elements that made those games so compelling.
The Core Inspirations
Infinity Engine Games
The most overt inspiration for Pillars of Eternity is undoubtedly the Infinity Engine, the engine that powered the aforementioned classic CRPGs. Like those games, Pillars of Eternity presents a party-based, isometric perspective gameplay experience. Players control a group of characters, each with their own unique skills, abilities, and personalities. The combat system is real-time with pause, allowing players to tactically plan their actions. This pause-and-play combat, along with intricate character customization and progression, is a direct nod to the Infinity Engine games.
Narrative and Worldbuilding
Beyond the gameplay mechanics, Pillars of Eternity also draws from the narrative depth and worldbuilding of the same source material. Planescape: Torment’s emphasis on philosophical questions, character-driven stories, and morally grey choices are echoed throughout Pillars. The game isn’t just about dungeon crawling; it’s also about engaging with complex themes, rich lore, and characters with complicated backgrounds and motivations. Similarly, the sprawling, high-fantasy settings and engaging side quests are reminiscent of Baldur’s Gate, creating a vast, explorable world that invites players to immerse themselves within.
A Nod to Dungeons & Dragons (Without Being Directly Based On It)
While not explicitly based on any D&D ruleset, Pillars of Eternity incorporates elements that feel very much at home with the Dungeons & Dragons aesthetic. The classes, abilities, and even the way combat encounters unfold feel familiar to anyone who has played tabletop RPGs. However, it’s important to emphasize that Obsidian created a completely original system for Pillars, distinct from any existing edition of D&D. Some elements, such as the emphasis on tactical thinking and diverse party roles, may feel similar to 4th Edition D&D, but this is more of an influence than a direct adaptation. The game’s overall feel and thematic elements, however, are heavily inspired by the broad scope of classic high fantasy, a cornerstone of D&D itself.
Pillars of Eternity: A Modern Classic Inspired by the Past
Pillars of Eternity isn’t just a carbon copy of older games; it’s a respectful and successful revival of a classic genre. It took what made the Infinity Engine games great – intricate party systems, immersive world-building, and complex narratives – and updated them for a modern audience. By drawing on these core inspirations, Obsidian Entertainment created a game that not only captures the nostalgia of classic CRPGs but stands out as a high-quality and engaging experience in its own right. The blend of familiar elements with unique, original touches is what truly makes Pillars of Eternity such a captivating experience for gamers both new and old.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Pillars of Eternity based on D&D?
No, Pillars of Eternity is not explicitly based on any D&D ruleset. However, it draws inspiration from the general feel and mechanics of tabletop RPGs, particularly the emphasis on tactical combat, diverse character classes, and narrative complexity.
2. What RPG is based on Pillars of Eternity?
Avowed, a first-person fantasy RPG also developed by Obsidian Entertainment, is set in the same fictional world of Eora as Pillars of Eternity. It takes place in a different area but shares the same lore and history.
3. What is Pillars of Eternity 2 based on?
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire continues to draw inspiration from the same Infinity Engine games as its predecessor, namely Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment. It refines the gameplay and expands on the world of Eora.
4. What universe is Pillars of Eternity set in?
The game takes place in the fantasy world of Eora, primarily within the nation of Dyrwood in the first game and the Deadfire Archipelago in the second.
5. Are Pillars of Eternity 1 and 2 related?
Yes, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a direct sequel to the first game. While it’s possible to start fresh, playing the first game and its expansions enhances the overall experience due to story and character continuities.
6. Is Tyranny a sequel to Pillars of Eternity?
No, Tyranny is not a direct sequel to Pillars of Eternity, but it shares the same game engine and gameplay mechanics. It’s another game developed by Obsidian that explores a world where the forces of evil have already won.
7. What does CRPG stand for?
CRPG stands for Computer Role-Playing Game. It’s a genre that typically features role-playing elements in a computer-based environment, often with fantasy settings and the ability to move freely through the world.
8. Who is the bad guy in Pillars of Eternity?
The main antagonist in Pillars of Eternity is Thaos ix Arkannon, the ageless grandmaster of the Leaden Key.
9. Does Pillars of Eternity play like Diablo?
No, while both are RPGs, they are different styles. Diablo-inspired action RPGs focus on loot and dungeon crawling, while Pillars of Eternity prioritizes branching narratives, deep character development, and strategic combat.
10. What is the green bar in Pillars of Eternity?
The green bar represents your character’s Health. As health decreases, the bar turns yellow and then red, indicating a critical state. The blue bar indicates the turn order in combat.
11. What race is best for a Cipher in Pillars of Eternity?
The Elf, Orlan, and Godlike races are often considered the best choices for the Cipher class due to their inherent stats and abilities.
12. What is the level cap in Pillars of Eternity?
The original level cap in Pillars of Eternity was 12. It was increased to 14 in Part I and then to 16 in Part II with expansions.
13. Is Pillars of Eternity 2 better than the first?
Opinions vary. While Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire often gets praise for its improved gameplay, the first game has more extensive world-building and lore introduction, offering a different, yet valuable, experience.
14. Are they making Pillars of Eternity 3?
There are no official announcements for Pillars of Eternity 3. However, Josh Sawyer has expressed interest in making a third game if the budget allows.
15. Was Pillars of Eternity a success?
Yes, Pillars of Eternity was generally considered a success. It received positive reviews for its world, writing, combat, and status as a spiritual successor to classic CRPGs, winning multiple awards.