Release Date	26 March 2015
Developer	Obsidian Entertainment
Platform	Microsoft Windows, macOS (OS X), Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
IGN Rating	9/10
Steam Rating	9/10

Introduction

Ah, Pillars of Eternity, the iconic CRPG that has enchanted countless players since its release. It’s an intricate dance of stories, battles, and strategy that requires a keen understanding of its mechanics. Whether you’re a new wanderer in the Dyrwood or a seasoned Watcher, there’s always a new secret waiting to be unearthed. The purpose of this blog? To provide some nifty tips and tricks that’ll enrich your journey through this masterpiece. So, sit back, grab your potions, and let’s dive right in.

Understanding Basic Mechanics in Pillars of Eternity

There’s something genuinely thrilling about cracking open a new game—like opening the first page of a book you’ve been dying to read. Remember those times when, filled with eagerness, we’ve clicked ‘skip tutorial’? Thinking, “How hard can it be?”, only to find ourselves utterly befuddled moments later? Ah, Pillars of Eternity, you’re one of those, aren’t you?

One thing I genuinely admire about this game is the humble tooltip—those seemingly inconspicuous pop-ups when you hover over an item or function. It’s easy to dismiss them as just little nuggets of trivia. Yet, for anyone new to the world of CRPGs, these tooltips are akin to lifelines. They guide you, breaking down the intricacies of Dyrwood’s combat mechanics, character backstories, and even the deep-seated lore of the world.

Interface

While the game’s interface might appear user-friendly at first glance, there’s more beneath the surface. Think of it as a rich tapestry. For instance, consider the character sheet—it’s not just a rundown of numbers but a mosaic that captures your character’s essence, trials, and growth. Similarly, your inventory isn’t just a storage box; it’s a silent testament to your journey’s highs and lows, battles won, and allies made.

So here’s a bit of friendly advice from one gamer to another: delve into every nook and cranny of the interface. Play around with it. Revisit sections you thought you knew. Sometimes, an unnoticed tidbit or a nuanced feature emerges from the shadows, providing clarity to a gameplay element that previously seemed esoteric. In Pillars of Eternity, knowledge isn’t just an advantage—it’s your most trusted ally. And understanding the game’s mechanics? Well, that’s the bedrock of your epic journey in Dyrwood.

Character Creation and Party Composition

In Pillars of Eternity, character creation is an art. It’s akin to painting a portrait: every stroke, every detail matters. But, it’s not solely about aesthetics or crafting the fiercest looking avatar – though let’s admit, having a character that turns heads in Defiance Bay is rather satisfying. It’s about creating a harmonious ensemble, a balanced team that’s prepared for the myriad challenges of the Dyrwood.

Balancing Act

This game isn’t one where you can “go solo” easily. Think of your party as an orchestra. You need the heavy beat of the drums – your tanky frontliner. Then there’s the intricate melody of the violin – your sly, dagger-wielding rogue. The powerful crescendo of the trumpet comes in as your devastating mage. And tying them all together, ensuring no note goes awry, is the calming influence of the flute – your steadfast healer. However, the beauty of Pillars is its flexibility. Feel like running an all-ranger party or a team of chanters? The game won’t stop you. Innovate, experiment, find what hits the right note for you.

The Right Start in Pillars of Eternity

While it’s tempting to choose a character based solely on their looks, remember that each class, race, and background holds its own significance in this rich tapestry of a world. They’re not just placeholders or lore-fillers; they shape your gameplay. For a novice, perhaps a hardy Human Fighter or a mystical Elf Wizard is apt. Their skills are straightforward yet powerful, a boon in the unpredictable world of Eora.

Builds

Tailoring your character is enthralling, but there’s no shame in seeking guidance. Many veterans have trodden the paths of the Dyrwood before you. Established builds, tried and tested in the heat of battle, can serve as a compass. They provide a solid foundation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the game without constantly second-guessing your choices.

Combat and Strategy

Pillars of Eternity’s combat isn’t a mere brawl; it’s a graceful ballet, a strategy game where every move counts. Imagine it as the Tango – fierce, intricate, and at times, utterly unforgiving.

Pause

Never underestimate the power of taking a moment. Battles can become chaotic, and the tide can turn rapidly. That space bar isn’t just a key; it’s a lifeline. Use it to regroup, plan, and strike with precision.

Positioning

Like a chess game, the positioning of your pieces is paramount. Your mages, despite their formidable power, can be fragile. Keep them shielded behind the sturdy armor of your frontliners. Use the environment to your advantage. Narrow pathways and choke points can turn the tide, forcing the enemy to dance to your tune.

Know Your Enemy

The world of Eora is vast, and its inhabitants are varied. The ghostly specter that’s impervious to your mage’s fireball might just succumb to a simple blade. Study your foes, adapt, and strike where they’re weakest.

Rest Up

Adventuring is exhausting. The thrill of exploration is occasionally punctuated by the need for respite. And in Pillars, camping isn’t a mere break. Choosing the right camping supplies isn’t just about rest; it’s about preparation. The benefits you gain can bolster your party, turning a looming defeat into a resounding victory.

In the dance of Pillars of Eternity, every step, every decision molds your story. So, tread with care and enjoy every beat.

Leveling Up and Skills

The thrill of leveling up in Pillars of Eternity is unmatched. It’s that euphoric moment, a testimony to your adventures, battles, and the tales spun in the world of Eora. But, with every ascent, comes the daunting task of deciding where to invest your hard-earned points. It’s a dance of strategy and foresight.

Skill Points

At first glance, the idea of being versatile, of being a character who can do a bit of everything, is enticing. After all, who wouldn’t want to pick every lock, decipher every piece of lore, and talk their way out of every sticky situation? However, in the vast and challenging world of Eora, specialization often trumps generalization. Assigning specific roles within your party can be a game-changer. Why not let your rogue master the art of lock-picking, silently disabling traps, while your priest delves into the mysteries of lore, unraveling ancient texts and sacred chants? Distributing skills in this manner ensures that each party member becomes indispensable in their unique way.

Talents & Abilities

These are the heart and soul of your character’s combat essence. Each talent, each ability, adds a layer to their story, shaping their approach in the heat of battle. It’s crucial to not just randomly pick what seems strong but to visualize how it complements your overall strategy. The flexibility of Pillars means you’re never truly locked in. Feel like a talent isn’t meshing well? The game offers opportunities to retrain, so don’t hesitate to tweak and fine-tune until your character feels just right.

Synergy is Key

Combat in Pillars of Eternity is not just about individual prowess; it’s about harmony. Each character, with their unique abilities, is a note in a grand symphony. Combining these abilities can lead to awe-inspiring results. Imagine the battlefield where a wizard casts a spell, ensnaring enemies in a cage of ice. Then, with a roar, your barbarian leaps in, delivering a blow that shatters them to pieces. These combinations, these moments of impeccable synergy, are what can elevate a challenging battle to a resounding victory.

To navigate the world of Eora successfully, always remember: it’s not just about the strength of the individual, but the harmony of the party. Every level-up, every skill point is a step towards creating that perfect, unbreakable rhythm.

Crafting and Equipment

Crafting in Pillars of Eternity isn’t just a side activity; it’s an intricate dance of strategy, resource management, and foresight. Think of it as the game’s secret culinary recipe – a dash of complexity, a sprinkle of challenge, and a heaping spoonful of satisfaction when your creation comes to life.

To Craft or Not To Craft

While the game doesn’t force you into the world of crafting, delving into it can open up a plethora of advantages. From potent potions that can turn the tide in battles to scrolls containing spells that even your casters haven’t learned yet, crafting can be your ace in the hole. It adds depth to the gameplay, allowing you to customize solutions for various challenges.

Gear Up

The world of Eora is unpredictable. One moment you’re battling spirits, the next, you’re up against armored giants. Hence, regularly updating your equipment isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a survival strategy. Swapping out that rusty sword for a gleaming new blade or exchanging your tattered robes for reinforced armor can make all the difference. In essence, a well-equipped party is a formidable one.

Quality Over Quantity

We’ve all been there – hoarding every item hoping it’ll come handy someday. But in Pillars, it’s more about precision than accumulation. Instead of lugging around heaps of seldom-used items, streamline your inventory. Keep those pieces that offer versatility and potency, ensuring you’re always prepared, no matter what Eora throws your way.

Exploration and Side Quests

In the sprawling world of Pillars of Eternity, the main narrative is just the beginning. Beyond it lies a myriad of stories, treasures, and mysteries waiting to be uncovered.

Explore Everywhere

The allure of Eora isn’t confined to its main story path. Venture into the unknown, tread paths less traveled, and you might just stumble upon hidden gems – from unique artifacts to captivating lore snippets. It’s in these secluded nooks that the game’s heart truly beats.

Side Quests Are Main Quests

These aren’t mere distractions. They’re intricately woven tales, each adding depth to the world and its inhabitants. Embarking on side quests not only satiates your narrative appetite but also brings with it a bounty of rewards. From gear to invaluable experience points that aid in leveling up, these quests are gold mines.

Eyes Peeled

Eora is a land of secrets. Beneath its regular facade, there are hidden switches activating mysterious passages, secret chambers filled with riches, and delightful Easter eggs for the keen-eyed explorer. It’s a testament to the game’s depth – there’s always something lurking, waiting to be discovered. So, as you traverse this vast land, keep those eyes wide open and that curiosity burning.

Interactions and Conversations

In Pillars of Eternity, every conversation is a duel, every dialogue a potential game-changer. The tongue, it seems, can be just as potent as any blade you wield, with words carving out your destiny in the vast landscape of Eora.

Choices Matter

In a land riddled with political intrigue, ancient feuds, and hidden motives, brute force isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, the pen truly is mightier than the sword. A well-chosen word or a tactfully handled conversation can turn foes into friends or unlock paths previously unseen. However, tread with caution. Just as your words have the power to forge bonds, they can also sever them, sealing off paths and opportunities. The weight of choice in Pillars ensures every conversation is a dance on a knife’s edge.

Reputation and Relationships

Every deed, every action casts a ripple across Eora. Assist a faction, and they might rally to your cause. Cross them, and you might find daggers drawn at every corner. And it’s not just about grand alliances. Companions, with their tales and ambitions, are closely watching. Nurture these bonds, and they’ll stand by you through thick and thin, perhaps even kindling the flames of romance. Neglect them, and they might challenge you when you least expect it.

Disposition Matters

Eora isn’t a mere black-and-white realm; it thrives in shades of grey. Are you the beacon of hope, the benevolent leader? Or the shadowy figure, deceptive and cunning? Your chosen disposition, reflected through actions and words, can open unique dialogue avenues. It crafts an identity, influencing not just how the world views you but also how you navigate its challenges.

Managing Resources

In Pillars of Eternity, the art of adventure is closely entwined with the science of resource management. While the game doesn’t revolve around balance sheets and ledgers, ensuring you judiciously manage your resources can be the difference between triumphant victory and frustrating defeat.

Save Wisely

The markets and stalls of Eora are filled with tantalizing wares – gleaming weapons, arcane trinkets, and rare artifacts. It’s easy to be seduced by a particularly sharp blade or a glittering armor. However, restrain is key. Before you part with your hard-earned coin, consider the long game. Perhaps there’s an arcane grimoire or a rare spellbook just waiting to be discovered in the next town. Such acquisitions can often offer greater value, turning the tide in complex battles or unlocking potent abilities.

Stock Up

The unpredictable nature of your quest means you’ll often find yourself in challenging situations – be it a surprise ambush by bandits or an unexpected run-in with malevolent spirits. In such scenarios, preparation is paramount. Ensure you always have a healthy stock of basic supplies. Health potions, antidotes, and camping equipment can be the difference between life and death, turning potential disasters into mere bumps in the road.

Upgrade Sensibly

The lure of having a grand, fully-upgraded stronghold is undeniable. A testament to your achievements, a symbol of your growing influence. But here’s a word to the wise: prioritize. While enhancing your base has its benefits, sometimes the immediate need is for better gear, recruitment of a skilled ally, or acquisition of a rare artifact. Balance immediate advantages against long-term gains. Perhaps instead of adding another tower to your castle, investing in a set of enchanted armor or hiring a skilled mage could offer more immediate dividends.

Advanced Strategies and Endgame

As you approach the climax of Pillars of Eternity, the stakes rise, challenges intensify, and every decision becomes crucial. This is the domain of the elite, where players prove their mastery over the game’s intricacies. Ready to tackle the toughest battles? Here’s how:

Preparation is Half the Battle

Like any seasoned strategist will tell you, victories aren’t only forged on the battlefield, but also in meticulous planning stages. Before you stand face-to-face with the endgame titans, take stock. Are your characters fully equipped with the best gear? Have they rested well, ridding themselves of any fatigue or debuffs? Your inventory should brim with essential consumables – potions, scrolls, and trap components. This level of readiness can be the thin line between a triumphant cheer and a somber defeat.

Optimal Setups

Knowledge, as they say, is power. Dive into the community forums, watch expert playthroughs, and familiarize yourself with party compositions that have been battle-tested against Eora’s mightiest adversaries. Every class brings a unique strength to the table; the key is in synergy. Ensuring your party’s abilities complement and amplify each other can be a game-changer against those formidable bosses.

Tackle the Toughest

Mastery beckons those who dare. Once you’re confident in your strategy and preparation, elevate the stakes. Turn up the game’s difficulty settings. Embrace those tougher, more nuanced challenges. Not only do they test your skills, but they also offer richer rewards and a deeper sense of accomplishment. After all, in the world of gaming, as in life, the most memorable victories are often those that seemed insurmountable.

Conclusion

Okay, let’s be real for a second. Pillars of Eternity isn’t just another game you’ll play and forget—it’s an adventure, one where YOU get to leave a mark. Getting to that endgame? Man, that’s hours of plotting, battling, and maybe even yelling at the screen (I know I did!). But that’s what makes it all worth it, right? With the tidbits we’ve chatted about here, I hope you feel like you’ve got a friend giving you a leg up.

Every one of us will walk a different path in Eora, and that’s the beauty of it. So here’s my two cents: Dive deep, enjoy every twist and turn, and don’t just play—create memories. Trust me, it’s the stories we tell that last. Game on and make it epic!