Larian Studios is gearing up for the highly anticipated Patch 8 for Baldur's Gate 3, and they're not taking any chances. Before the patch goes live, they're conducting a Stress Test to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here's everything you need to know about the stress test, what it entails, and more about Patch 8.
Patch 8 Stress Test Update 1 Arrives With Bug Fixes
Only Available To Testers
Larian has released an update to the Patch 8 Stress Test build, addressing several bugs, crashes, and scripting errors. This update also ensures that Gale properly consumes magical items as intended. Please note that only participants in the Patch 8 stress test have access to this update on their designated consoles. Those who aren't testers will need to wait for the full, polished patch to enjoy all the new improvements and content.
Key improvements in this update include:
- Containers within inventories retaining their contents even when destroyed.
- Easier screenshotting in Photo Mode for Steam Deck users.
- More responsive poses.
- Enhanced cross-play functionality.
- Updated values for the Booming Blade tooltip when cast.
- Resolution of several crash issues.
For a comprehensive list of all the enhancements, visit the official Baldur's Gate 3 website's news announcements.
As one of the final feature-rich updates from Larian before the team moves on from the world of Faerûn, Patch 8 promises to be a massive update. This is why stress testing is crucial. The patch will introduce platform cross-play, over 12 new subclasses like the Death Domain Cleric, Path of Giants Barbarian, and Arcane Archer Fighter, and the eagerly awaited Photo Mode.
Photo Mode Is As Customizable As It Can Be
While waiting for Patch 8, players can get a detailed sneak peek into how to maximize the upcoming Photo Mode. Larian wants players to "get the absolute most out of Photo Mode from the start."
Photo Mode is incredibly versatile, accessible almost anytime and anywhere—during adventures, in combat, and even in multiplayer by the host player. You can set up companions and characters to pose exactly as you envision, with or without party members, or even include additional characters like a jumping frog that takes up half the screen. The free-moving camera allows you to capture the perfect angle.
After setting up your shot, you can enhance it with post-processing effects, stickers, and frames. However, during dialogues and cinematic cutscenes, you can only add post-process effects and won't be able to manipulate poses.
This sneak peek is just the beginning. Larian plans to release a tips and tricks video to further inspire and guide players in unleashing their creativity through Photo Mode.
