What is Pillars of Eternity Based On?
Pillars of Eternity is a critically acclaimed role-playing game developed by Obsidian Entertainment, released in 2015. The game is set in the fantasy world of Eora, where players embark on a journey to explore the continent, uncover its secrets, and shape its fate. But what makes Pillars of Eternity so unique? What is Pillars of Eternity based on?
Infinity Engine Games
Pillars of Eternity is heavily inspired by the Infinity Engine games, a series of classic RPGs developed by BioWare and Black Isle Studios. The game’s developers, Obsidian Entertainment, were part of the team that created the Infinity Engine games, and their experience and passion for the series are evident in Pillars of Eternity.
Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment
Specifically, Pillars of Eternity is inspired by the Baldur’s Gate series, Icewind Dale series, and Planescape: Torment. These games are considered some of the best RPGs of all time, and their influence can be seen in Pillars of Eternity’s game mechanics, storytelling, and atmosphere.
Original Fantasy World
While Pillars of Eternity draws inspiration from the Infinity Engine games, it is not a direct sequel or continuation of any of those games. Instead, it is set in an original fantasy world, Eora, which is rich in history, politics, and lore. The game’s developers created a unique setting that is both familiar and new, drawing inspiration from classic RPGs while also introducing fresh ideas and mechanics.
Gameplay Mechanics
Pillars of Eternity’s gameplay mechanics are also inspired by the Infinity Engine games. The game features a party-based system, where players can recruit and control a team of characters, each with their own unique abilities, skills, and personalities. The game’s combat system is turn-based, with players taking turns making attacks, casting spells, and using abilities to defeat enemies.
Story and Lore
The game’s story and lore are also deeply rooted in the Infinity Engine games. Pillars of Eternity features a rich narrative with complex characters, branching storylines, and multiple endings. The game’s world is full of history, politics, and intrigue, with players uncovering secrets and shaping the fate of the continent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pillars of Eternity is based on the Infinity Engine games, specifically the Baldur’s Gate series, Icewind Dale series, and Planescape: Torment. The game’s developers, Obsidian Entertainment, drew inspiration from these classic RPGs to create an original fantasy world, gameplay mechanics, and story. Pillars of Eternity is a love letter to the Infinity Engine games, and its influence can be seen in its gameplay, storytelling, and atmosphere.
Key Features:
- Party-based gameplay with up to five playable characters
- Turn-based combat system with a variety of abilities and spells
- Rich narrative with complex characters and branching storylines
- Original fantasy world, Eora, with its own history, politics, and lore
- Influence from the Infinity Engine games, specifically Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment
Similarities to Infinity Engine Games:
- Party-based gameplay
- Turn-based combat system
- Rich narrative with complex characters and branching storylines
- Influence from classic RPGs
- Original fantasy world with its own history, politics, and lore
Differences from Infinity Engine Games:
- Original setting and story
- Unique gameplay mechanics and abilities
- Modern graphics and sound design
- New characters and enemies
Conclusion
Pillars of Eternity is a loving tribute to the Infinity Engine games, and its influence can be seen in its gameplay, storytelling, and atmosphere. The game’s original setting, gameplay mechanics, and story make it a unique and engaging experience for fans of classic RPGs.