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Larian Studios has unveiled major plans for Baldur’s Gate 3 in the coming year, solidifying its status as one of the most revered RPGs in recent years. Cosmetics are set to debut in the studio’s upcoming Patch 8, scheduled for release in 2024. The patch will also introduce highly anticipated features, including cross-play, a robust photo mode, and 12 new subclasses—one for each class in the game.
Cross-progression has been supported since the release of Baldur’s Gate 3 for players to continue playing their adventures via another device, however, Patch 8 brings cross-play. Owners of PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Mac will now be able to join each other’s multiplayer lobbies with no issues. As cross-play Larian Network lobbies have been added and letting friends join the journey directly into Faerûn, everyone will soon be able to join the fun.
Photo mode is something many gamers will find revolutionary if they love capturing their adventures timelessly. Filled with options for customization, it helps players to change photography in the battle, during communication or in the cinematic mode. Features include:
- Camera controls: Change field of view, depth of field, exposure, focus.
- Character adjustments: either mask the characters or challenge party members with over 40 static/animated choices.
- Post-processing effects: Moreover, adjust the picture’s contrast, brightness, saturation, and many other settings.
- Creative add-ons: Accessory like stickers; frame; vignette effects to enhance the aspects.
In addition to that, when combat is raging on or when the player is simply admiring the beauty of nature, the photo mode makes sure the captured image is suitable for posting on Instagram.
Perhaps the most exciting addition in Patch 8 is the introduction of 12 new subclasses. Each existing class in Baldur's Gate 3 gets a fresh subclass, offering unique gameplay styles. Here’s the full list:
Bard: College of Glamour
Barbarian: Path of Giants
Cleric: Death Domain
Druid: Circle of Stars
Paladin: Oath of the Crown
Fighter: Arcane Archer
Monk: Drunken Master
Ranger: Swarmkeeper
Rogue: Swashbuckler
Sorcerer: Shadow Magic
Warlock: Hexblade
Wizard: Bladesinging
These subclasses introduce new spells, abilities, and role-playing opportunities, allowing players to experiment with innovative strategies.
However, first Larian will organize a stress test in early January, before the release of the patch, to see how players respond to it. Accessible to all platforms – Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, this testing stage aims at a seamless release.
The new Patch 8 demonstrates that Baldur’s Gate 3 is once again setting the bar for RPG growth, leaving a fan base keenly waiting to see more.
