Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8: Accidental Release Brings Crossplay, Photo Mode, and More

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8 has been accidentally released for PlayStation 5 players, despite not being part of the planned stress test. The update includes significant features like crossplay, photo mode, and 12 new subclasses. Larian Studios is working to understand how this happened and warns that new saves made with Patch 8 will not be compatible with Patch 7. The final major update promises a polished experience with stability fixes, modding updates, and quality-of-life improvements. A stress test is planned for PC and other platforms soon.

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8: The Accidental Release and Its Implications
Baldur’s Gate 3, the highly anticipated RPG from Larian Studios, has made headlines with the accidental release of Patch 8 on PlayStation 5. This update was not part of the planned stress test, which is set to begin on PC and other platforms soon. Despite the unexpected rollout, Patch 8 brings a plethora of exciting features that fans have been eagerly awaiting.

Key Features of Patch 8

1. Crossplay: Players can now enjoy seamless multiplayer gaming across PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
2. Photo Mode: A new feature that allows players to capture stunning in-game screenshots with filters and customizations.
3. 12 New Subclasses: Each class now has an additional subclass, offering more diverse character builds.

4. Xbox Series S Split Screen: Couch co-op is finally available on Xbox Series S.

5. Perception Check Improvements: Items revealed through Perception checks now ping on the minimap and are listed in the combat log.

6. Improved Inventory Interaction: Scrolls and potions in unlocked containers can now be used during dialogue rolls.

7. Neutral NPC Behavior: Fixed issues where NPCs would unnecessarily become hostile due to surface effects outside of combat.

8. Pathfinding and Platforming: Resolved bugs causing characters to get stuck on ladders or platforms.

9. Cinematic Polishing: Improved animations for character interactions during certain story moments, including intimate scenes and height-based interactions.

10. Minthara and Storyline Flow: Fixed various scripting issues with Minthara to ensure smoother interactions and progression.

The Accidental Release

Larian Studios has confirmed that some players on PS5 have access to Patch 8, even though it wasn’t meant to be released yet. The studio is working with its partners to determine how this happened and advises players not to make new saves until the proper release date, as they will not be compatible with Patch 7.

Future Plans

Despite this unexpected twist, Larian Studios remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all players. The stress test for Patch 8 is set to begin soon on PC and other platforms, and invites are rolling out now for selected participants. This final major update promises to be a significant milestone in the game’s development, bringing stability fixes, modding updates, and quality-of-life improvements.

Q1: Why did Patch 8 accidentally release on PS5?
A1: Larian Studios is working with its partners to determine how this happened.

Q2: What features does Patch 8 include?

A2: Crossplay, photo mode, 12 new subclasses, Xbox Series S split screen, perception check improvements, improved inventory interaction, neutral NPC behavior, pathfinding and platforming fixes, cinematic polishing, and Minthara storyline flow fixes.

Q3: Will new saves made with Patch 8 be compatible with Patch 7?

A3: No, new saves made with Patch 8 will not be compatible with Patch 7.

Q4: When will the stress test for Patch 8 begin?

A4: The stress test for Patch 8 is set to begin soon on PC and other platforms.

Q5: How can I participate in the stress test for Patch 8?

A5: Invites are rolling out now for selected participants. Check your email for access.

Q6: Is Patch 8 the final major update for Baldur’s Gate 3?

A6: Yes, Patch 8 is the final major update for Baldur’s Gate 3, but subsequent patches could still roll out to fix smaller bugs and other issues.

Q7: What happens to my game saves if I update to Patch 8 now?

A7: If you update to Patch 8 now, your game saves will not be compatible with Patch 7. It’s best to wait until the proper release date.

Q8: Can I play with friends across different platforms with Patch 8?

A8: Yes, Patch 8 enables seamless multiplayer gaming across PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.

Q9: Are there any stability fixes in Patch 8?

A9: Yes, Patch 8 includes significant stability fixes to ensure a more polished experience for players.

Q10: Will there be any modding updates in Patch 8?

A10: Yes, Patch 8 includes modding updates to enhance the game further.

The accidental release of Patch 8 for Baldur’s Gate 3 on PlayStation 5 has brought excitement and anticipation among fans. Despite the unexpected rollout, the update promises to be a significant milestone in the game’s development, bringing a plethora of new features and improvements. Larian Studios is working diligently to ensure a smooth transition for all players and is committed to delivering a polished experience with the final major update. As the stress test begins soon on PC and other platforms, players can look forward to enjoying crossplay, photo mode, and much more.