BG3 Patch 8: Farewell & Future Plans from Larian

Baldur’s Gate 8 Patch 8 Patch Notes

Patch 8

Larian Studios has officially released Patch 8 for Baldur’s Gate 3, marking a significant moment for both the developers and the dedicated player base. This patch represents the culmination of years of collaborative effort, player feedback, and a shared passion for the world of Baldur’s Gate 3. While the team is now looking forward to future projects, Patch 8 isn’t merely a farewell, but a celebration of the game’s journey so far.

The patch is loaded with various enhancements and additions. From highly anticipated features like cross-play and a photo mode, to twelve brand-new subclasses to experiment with, this final major update provides a wealth of new content for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X | S players. Additionally, the update incorporates numerous bug fixes and tweaks to overall gameplay, promising a more refined experience.

Although Larian acknowledges that minor bug fixes might be addressed in the future, it has been confirmed that Patch 8 constitutes the last major game patch. They won’t be adding new narrative content or significantly altering storylines, characters, or companions. Having told their stories in the way they needed, Larian is now preparing to embark on their next creative endeavor. As such, the company bid farewell to fans, assuring them that their support and input have been crucial and will continue to influence their upcoming creations.

• Patch 8 is the final major content update.
• Larian is moving on to new projects.
• Player feedback will continue to shape future games.

New Features and Content

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 introduces a host of new features and content designed to enhance the gaming experience. The most notable addition is the long-awaited cross-play functionality, enabling players on PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X | S to play together seamlessly. The photo mode allows you to capture and share memorable moments, while those on Xbox Series S will enjoy split-screen capabilities.

For PC players, Steam Trading Cards are now supported, enabling you to collect unique cards and unlock exclusive profile customizations. Moreover, this patch introduces the Baldur’s Gate 3 Modding Toolkit is receiving an update, which means mod authors will now be able to explore partial level editing. Whether you fancy creating your own NPC, you’ll now be able to add or override certain template types in existing levels.

One of the most exciting additions is the introduction of twelve new subclasses, one for each playable class. These subclasses offer new abilities, animations, VFX, and unique summons, providing fresh perspectives for veteran players and newcomers alike. The update adds depth and replayability, as you can now experiment with each class from a fresh perspective. Each new subclass can be selected once you have reached the level required to unlock it.

• Cross-play support for all platforms.
• Photo mode with stickers and camera settings.
• Twelve new subclasses.
• Modding Toolkits.
• Steam Trading Cards.

Cross-Play Functionality

One of the standout features of Patch 8 is the inclusion of cross-play functionality, which allows players across various platforms to engage in multiplayer sessions together. This is especially significant as it unites the Baldur’s Gate 3 community across PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X | S, creating a more cohesive and connected player base.

To facilitate cross-play, Larian has implemented the Larian Network, which players can use to create and join cross-platform lobbies. It’s important to know that when playing with mods in cross-play, all players must have the same version installed. You’ll be prompted with the Mod Verification window to upgrade or downgrade mods when joining a host’s game.

This new feature has been designed for ease of use. Joining another player in multiplayer is as easy as selecting “Multiplayer” on the main menu, selecting the “Cross-Play” tab, and joining the lobby. To create a cross-play lobby, simply access multiplayer, select “Cross-Play,” and then “Create,” customizing the options before launching the game. A video guide is also available for players who need additional assistance in setting up and using cross-play.

• Uses Larian Network for cross-platform lobbies.
• Mod verification ensures all players have the same mods.
• Designed for ease of use.

New Subclasses Detailed

Patch 8 brings twelve new subclasses, one for each class. The Path of the Giant Barbarian lets you grow in size and hurl your weapon. The College of Glamour Bard enchants and controls the battlefield. With the Death Domain Cleric, you can command the undead. Embrace your connection to the stars with the Circle of Stars Druid.

Become an Arcane Archer Fighter, who can enhance their arrows with elemental damage. Tap into the power of booze and unpredictability with the Way of the Drunken Master Monk. Embrace the tenets of righteousness as an Oath of the Crown Paladin. As the Swarmkeeper Ranger, you can command swarms of insects or beasts. Dash into action as a Swashbuckler Rogue.

Surge forth as a Shadow Magic Sorcerer. Make a pact with the Hexblade Warlock, and dance across the battlefield as a Bladesinging Wizard. All these subclasses bring fresh abilities, animations, and VFX to their respective classes. They offer you an opportunity to explore and develop your character in new and captivating ways.

• Path of the Giant Barbarian.
• College of Glamour Bard.
• Death Domain Cleric.
• Circle of Stars Druid.
• Arcane Archer Fighter.
• Way of the Drunken Master Monk.
• Oath of the Crown Paladin.
• Swarmkeeper Ranger.
• Swashbuckler Rogue.
• Shadow Magic Sorcerer.
• Hexblade Warlock.
• Bladesinging Wizard.

Modding Capabilities Expanded

Patch 8 brings a substantial update to the Baldur’s Gate 3 Modding Toolkit, which means mod authors can now explore partial level editing. This capability allows modders to add or override specific template types in existing levels. Now, you can create new NPCs, or design unique interactive objects, like a chest that teleports when approached.

Though the toolkit doesn’t support changing the static elements like buildings, scenery, or terrain, this new feature opens a world of possibilities for creativity and customization. With this update, Larian is expanding the range of what’s possible with mods, enabling creators to add their own personal touch to the game.

To support this, Larian updated their modding guidelines with new information, and they will continue curating mods for console. The ImpUI mod isn’t currently being maintained, but now, mod authors will be able to make changes directly for mods that rely on UI tweaks during Character Creation, such as racial spells at LevelUp.

• Partial level editing is now available.
• Create new NPCs and interactive objects.
• Guidelines for mod creation are updated.
• Changes can be made for mods that rely on UI tweaks during Character Creation.