Pillars of Eternity

They say that souls linger here, trapped between worlds. I've seen it myself, that shimmering residue clinging to stone and bone. It's called Waidwen's Legacy, a cataclysm that birthed me, and others like me. We're the Watchers, cursed, or perhaps blessed, with the ability to perceive the past clinging to the present. And in Pillars of Eternity, that's more than just a parlor trick. It's survival.

The world of Eora… it’s ancient, steeped in history, and bubbling with secrets. From the sun-drenched plains of the Dyrwood to the echoing halls of Caed Nua, every stone whispers a tale. You begin as a wanderer, drawn to the Dyrwood by whispers of opportunity. But fate, it seems, has other plans. The Waidwen's Legacy sweeps through, leaving a trail of "hollowborn" children – infants born without souls. And you… you awaken as a Watcher.

What Awaits:

• A Chronicle of Your Making: Forget being a pre-ordained hero. Your character is molded by choices, skills, and background. Pick from six races (Humans, Aumaua, Dwarves, Elves, Orlans, and Godlike), each with unique sub-races and cultural bonuses. Then, choose your destiny from eleven classes - Barbarian, Chanter, Cipher, Druid, Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Priest, Ranger, Rogue, and Wizard - each offering a unique playstyle. The depths of character creation are truly impressive.
• Companions With Souls (Literally): You won't walk this path alone. Nine unique companions await, each burdened by their own histories and motivations. Their personal quests intertwine with yours, forcing difficult choices. Will you support Aloth's struggle against the possessive spirit within him? Or guide Eder towards redemption for his past sins? Their fates, and their loyalty, rests in your hands.
• Combat Woven with Strategy: Forget mindless button-mashing. Pillars of Eternity uses a real-time-with-pause combat system. Positioning, ability usage, and understanding enemy weaknesses are paramount. Every encounter is a puzzle, demanding tactical thinking and careful planning. Prepare to manage your party, exploit enemy vulnerabilities, and master the art of crowd control.
• A World That Reacts: Your choices have weight. The decisions you make in dialogues, the quests you undertake, and even the way you treat the inhabitants of Eora will shape the world around you. Alliances will be forged, enemies will be made, and the fate of entire settlements will rest on your shoulders.
• Caed Nua: Your Fortress, Your Legacy: Reclaim the ancient fortress of Caed Nua and restore it to its former glory. Recruit adventurers, manage resources, and defend your stronghold from invaders. Caed Nua becomes more than just a base of operations; it becomes a symbol of your power and influence.
• The White March - Beyond the Veil: The expansions (parts 1 and 2) take you to the frozen north, introducing new companions, new enemies, and new challenges. The White March delves deeper into the mysteries of the Engwithan civilization and the nature of souls, expanding the world and adding even more depth to the core experience.

But Beware...

• The Learning Curve: Pillars of Eternity is unapologetically old-school. The sheer amount of information presented can be overwhelming at first. Be prepared to read, experiment, and embrace the challenge.
• A Heavy Toll: This game demands your time. The main campaign alone can easily take 60+ hours, and the expansions add even more to the experience. This is not a game to be rushed.

My Verdict:

Pillars of Eternity is more than just a game; it's an experience. It's a journey into a richly detailed world, where choices matter, and the past echoes through the present. If you seek a deep, engaging RPG that respects your intelligence and rewards your dedication, then heed my words: Embrace the Legacy.

• Gameplay: 9/10 - Deep, tactical combat, engaging character progression, and impactful choices.
• Story: 10/10 - A mature, thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of faith, identity, and the nature of souls.
• Graphics: 8/10 - Beautifully rendered environments and detailed character models, though the isometric perspective may not appeal to everyone.
• Sound: 9/10 - An evocative soundtrack and excellent voice acting that immerses you in the world of Eora.
• Replayability: 10/10 - Multiple character builds, branching storylines, and a world that reacts to your choices ensure a unique experience with each playthrough.

Overall: 9/10 - A modern classic that sets a new standard for isometric RPGs.

The souls of Eora await. Will you heed their call?