Baldur’s Gate 3, the innovative role-playing game that debuted in 2023, has officially launched its final update, bringing new content to players one last time. Developer Larian Studios has introduced Patch 8, which includes several highly requested features such as cross-play compatibility across all platforms, additional subclasses, a photo mode, and split-screen functionality specifically for Xbox Series S. In the patch notes released on Tuesday, Larian indicated that no further new content would be added as the studio shifts its focus to future projects.
Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8
“This is it. Our final major game patch for Baldur’s Gate 3,” Larian remarked in the patch notes, directly communicating with the Baldur’s Gate 3 community.
“You’ve helped us make BG3 a bigger success than any of us could’ve ever hoped for, and that passion could keep us tweaking things and making changes until the end of time. But then we’d never be able to create something new,” the studio added.
Larian confirmed that Patch 8 signifies the end of updates that introduce new narrative content or significant alterations to the game’s stories and characters. However, patches focused on minor bug fixes may continue to be released.
“Aside from minor bug fixes, Patch 8 will be the last patch to bring new content to the game. There won’t be any additions of new narrative elements or major revisions to storylines, Origin characters, or companions,” Larian stated. “We feel that we’ve conveyed our stories in a meaningful way, and we are committed to improving our processes so that we can continue to create in the future.”
Baldur’s Gate 3 was released on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X in 2023
Photo Credit: Larian Studios
Patch 8 Details
Patch 8 introduces a final set of content updates to Baldur’s Gate 3, along with numerous bug fixes and enhancements. Key features of this update include 12 new subclasses that come with fresh abilities, animations, visuals effects, and more; comprehensive cross-play support for PC, Mac, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X; an elaborate photo mode; integration for Steam Trading Cards; and split-screen capabilities for Xbox Series S. The latter feature had been highly requested and was a significant factor in delaying the game’s launch due to technical challenges on the less powerful console.
The patch also encompasses various bug fixes, improvements to modding tools, and a broad range of gameplay enhancements.
With updates for Baldur’s Gate 3 concluding, Larian has announced that its attention has now turned towards its next project.
“From the start, your feedback has been invaluable to us and will continue to inform our future endeavors. As Swen mentioned during the Baldur’s Gate 3 retrospective panel at PAX West last August, it’s time for our team to retreat and prepare for our next adventure,” the studio remarked.
Baldur’s Gate 3 was launched on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X in 2023, receiving widespread critical acclaim and achieving over 15 million sales. The game garnered several prestigious awards at the year’s end, including the title of Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2023.
