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Larian Studios’ Baldur’s Gate 3 was a massive step forward for CRPGs, not only expanding on Divinity Original Sin 2’s 3D graphics, but also crafting a massive cinematic take on the genre. BG3 is already inspiring AAA games like The Witcher 4, and Pillars of Eternity creator Josh Sawyer is also taking notes.
Saywer, known for his work on Fallout New Vegas, crafted the brilliant CRPG series Pillars of Eternity, gorgeous 2D games that never made the jump to 3D. However, after seeing Baldur’s Gate 3 in action, Sawyer would follow suit if he ever got to made a Pillars of Eternity 3.
Speaking at the recent Digital Dragons event, Sawyer explained that he laments the decision to create the game with an isometric look supplemented by 3D assets, but it wasn’t a true 3D experience. While the team wasn’t sure if pure 3D visuals would work during the creation of the prior two games, seeing Baldur’s Gate 3 in action proved that not only was 3D viable, but it was actually much better.
Sawyer explained that the big issue with Pillars of Eternity’s visuals was the lack of depth in its isometric environments. In our opinion, the games look downright gorgeous, but the creator explained that the absence of a sense of height and less dynamism was an issue for the games.
“I think if we did go into a 3D environment, we could patch up one of the things that’s really lacking,” he explained. “Because it is isometric, there’s no sense of height, and the environment can’t be that dynamic.”
The Pillars of Eternity creator explained that Baldur’s Gate 3’s 3D graphics proved that the team should’ve created their own games in that same vein. While the creator didn’t confirm a third Pillars game, he would follow BG3’s lead if he ever made another entry in the series.
“When you compare it [PoE] to something like BG3, you realise [3D graphics are] such a huge part of the appeal,” he continued. “I think, at some point, I would like to see a game that used all those Deadfire mechanics, plus more environmental mechanics, elevation hazards, and dynamic terrain stuff. That could be super cool.”
Pillars of Eternity has never had a 3D entry, but it did receive a massive first-person spin-off in the form of the spectacular Avowed. While it may be a completely different style of game, Avowed is a brilliant take on the world of PoE, but it would be nice to see the series return to its CRPG routes with a beautiful new coat of paint.
As for Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios is no longer working on the game outside of minor hotfixes. Instead, the studio is working on two new RPGs that will continue to push the bar set by BG3—it’s a very exciting time to be a Larian fan.
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