Pillars of Eternity 3: Josh Sawyer’s 3D Vision

Obsidian Entertainment’s RPG legacy in the world of Eora continues to evolve, with director Josh Sawyer sharing bold ideas for a potential third installment in the Pillars of Eternity series. Unlike the first-person adventure of Avowed, Sawyer advocates for a fully realized 3D isometric experience reminiscent of Baldur’s Gate 3, promising enhanced environmental interactivity and dynamic gameplay.

The Legacy of Pillars of Eternity and Eora’s Expansive World

The Pillars of Eternity series has carved a niche in the CRPG genre since its 2015 debut, funded through Kickstarter and praised for its deep lore, moral complexity, and isometric perspective. Set in the fantastical world of Eora, the games explore themes of souls, gods, and existential philosophy through intricate narratives and player-driven choices.

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire built on this foundation with ship-based exploration, expanded companion stories, and refined combat mechanics. However, Sawyer has long noted limitations in the 2.5D art style, particularly in environmental depth and interactivity. Avowed, released as a first-person RPG in the same universe, expands Eora’s Living Lands but operates independently, focusing on action-oriented gameplay rather than the series’ signature tactical depth.

Why Avowed Isn’t Pillars of Eternity 3

Avowed marks Obsidian’s return to Eora but in a radically different format. Players embody a Godlike protagonist navigating political intrigue and ancient mysteries in a first-person view, emphasizing real-time combat, spellcasting, and immersive world-building. Community discussions highlight its strengths in accessibility and atmosphere, yet criticize it for lacking the philosophical heft and build variety of Pillars.

• First-Person Shift: Avowed prioritizes immersion through direct character control, contrasting Pillars’ overhead strategy.
• Commercial Appeal: Obsidian views first-person RPGs as more marketable, potentially paving the way for sequels over isometric titles.
• World Expansion: It fleshes out underrepresented regions like the Living Lands, enriching Eora without continuing the main storyline.

Forums and Steam threads reflect mixed sentiments: some praise Avowed as a fresh Eora entry akin to Skyrim clones, while others lament the departure from CRPG purity.

Sawyer’s Blueprint for a 3D Pillars of Eternity 3

Josh Sawyer, the visionary behind the series, has repeatedly expressed enthusiasm for elevating Pillars to full 3D. In recent interviews, he proposes an isometric 3D setup mirroring Baldur’s Gate 3’s success—offering elevation changes, destructible environments, and heightened reactivity.

“I think that a third game should be an isometric 3D with an environment more like Baldur’s Gate 3; it would work.” – Josh Sawyer

This evolution would integrate Deadfire’s mechanics with advanced features like dynamic terrain and hazards, making worlds more alive and tactically engaging. Sawyer acknowledges fan resistance but argues 3D enables art efficiency and innovation, patching gaps in prior entries’ interactivity.

Comparing RPG Perspectives: Isometric vs. First-Person

This table underscores the stylistic divide, with Sawyer betting on 3D isometric for PoE3’s revival.

Fan Reactions and the CRPG Renaissance

The CRPG scene thrives post-Baldur’s Gate 3, with Larian’s $100M epic (rumored) setting a benchmark. Fans on Reddit and Obsidian forums prefer Pillars 3 over Avowed 2, craving Sawyer’s signature depth amid Obsidian’s pivot to broader appeal.

Critics note budget hurdles: matching BG3’s scale requires massive investment, which Xbox might hesitate on for niche isometric games. Yet, Avowed’s release bolsters Eora’s viability, potentially funding ambitious projects.

Technical and Artistic Advantages of 3D in CRPGs

Transitioning to full 3D promises revolutionized gameplay. Elevation adds vertical tactics, while dynamic elements like collapsing structures introduce unpredictability. Sawyer highlights Deadfire’s team prowess, suggesting 3D would amplify their strengths without overhauling core design.

Artistically, 3D streamlines asset creation, allowing richer biomes—from Eora’s storm-swept seas to haunted ruins. Motion capture could deepen animations, rivaling modern titles.

Obsidian’s Broader RPG Strategy

Post-Avowed, Obsidian shelves The Outer Worlds but commits to Eora expansions. This multi-perspective approach—first-person for mass appeal, isometric for purists—mirrors industry trends. Sawyer’s comments fuel speculation: could PoE3 blend Avowed’s lore with 3D innovation?

Challenges Ahead for Pillars of Eternity 3

1. Budget Demands: BG3-level funding is rare for CRPGs.
2. Fan Expectations: Balancing tradition with evolution risks backlash.
3. Tech Hurdles: Ensuring isometric 3D maintains tactical clarity.
4. Market Fit: Competing with action RPG dominance.

Despite these, Sawyer’s passion signals strong potential.

FAQs

Is Avowed a sequel to Pillars of Eternity?

No, it’s a standalone first-person RPG in the Eora universe, not continuing the main Pillars storyline.

What does Josh Sawyer want for Pillars 3?

An isometric 3D world like Baldur’s Gate 3, with enhanced environments and mechanics.

Will there be Pillars of Eternity 3?

Not announced, but Sawyer’s comments and Obsidian’s Eora focus keep hopes alive.

How does Avowed expand Eora?

It explores the Living Lands, adding lore and history without Pillars’ CRPG elements.

Why shift to 3D for PoE3?

For better interactivity, dynamic terrain, and art efficiency.

The Future of Eora and CRPG Evolution

As Obsidian navigates RPG landscapes, Sawyer’s 3D vision positions Pillars 3 as a genre pinnacle. Avowed proves Eora’s versatility, blending accessibility with depth. Whether isometric purity or first-person thrill prevails, Eora’s saga endures, captivating players with its soul-binding tales.