Retro-Revival: Exploring Games Like Pillars of Eternity
As the fantasy RPG genre continues to evolve, players are constantly seeking recent experiences that evoke a sense of nostalgia while still innovating upon classic formulas. In this regard, Obsidian Entertainment’s Pillars of Eternity (2015) stands out as a beacon for fans craving deep storytelling, engaging combat, and immersive world-building. With its unique blend of 2D isometric exploration and 3D party-based battle mechanics, PoE has garnered a dedicated following worldwide.
But what if you’ve devoured the entire Pillars series (consisting of two main games: Pillars of Eternity itself and its sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, 2018)? What other modern masterpieces share similar qualities that fans adore about this critically acclaimed duo? This article aims to bridge the gap between Pillar-fanatics and fresh gaming experiences by introducing an array of games like Pillars of Eternity, each with their own set of strengths.
Section I: The Inheritance – Games Continuing the Legacy
These titles pick up where Obsidian’s magnum opus left off, building upon similar concepts while pushing boundaries in storytelling or mechanics. Fans seeking a direct continuation might find themselves enthralled by:
- Divinity Original Sin 2: A sequel to Larian Studios’ hit series (2014), offering isometric exploration and turn-based combat amidst an elaborate narrative.
- Tyranny: From Obsidian Entertainment itself, this darker spin-off focuses on playing as a tyrant rather than the hero, making players ponder morality and strategy. The game’s story-driven approach shares some DNA with PoE.
Section II: Reimagining Classics
When classic games like ADOM (Adventures of Dunland) or Diablo 2 receive modern updates, gamers are presented with revitalized experiences that blend time-honored elements with contemporary flair. Examples include:
- Shadowrun Returns: A digital reworking of Harebrained Schemes’ acclaimed tabletop adaptation, featuring a mix of isometric exploration and turn-based combat.
- The Age of Decadence: This medieval-inspired RPG from Flyhawk Interactive blends 2D isometric visuals with deep strategic planning in its battle system.
Section III: Exploring the Unknown
For those who crave something entirely new while still carrying PoE’s DNA, this sectoin highlights games that might have flown under their radar:
- Solitude: A visually stunning exploration-RPG from Farsighted Interactive featuring procedurally generated environments and an emphasis on player choice.
- The Banner Saga: This critically acclaimed tactical RPG from Stoic (2014) combines turn-based combat with a focus on storytelling, memorable characters, and environmental impact.
Section IV: The Horizon
In conclusion, while no single game can replicate the exact essence of Pillars of Eternity (after all, it is an outlier among modern titles), these suggestions should serve as a gateway to exploring further. Whether you’re yearning for nostalgia-inducing combat mechanics or innovative storytelling experiences, each of these games shares elements that made PoE so endearing.
In this realm where fantasy and strategy entwine, the path forward beckons; with these recommendations serving as your compass, embark on an adventure to rediscover what makes Pillars of Eternity a timeless classic.
