BG3 Patch 8: Massive Update Requires Stress Testing

Larian Studios has introduced a Stress Test update to ensure the upcoming Patch 8 for Baldur's Gate 3 runs smoothly before its official release. Dive into the details of the stress test, its implications, and what to expect from Patch 8.

Patch 8 Stress Test Update 1 Arrives With Bug Fixes

Only Available To Testers

Larian has released an update for the Patch 8 Stress Test build, addressing multiple bugs, crashes, and scripting issues. This update also ensures that Gale correctly consumes magical items as intended. It's important to note that this update is exclusively available to those participating in the Patch 8 stress test, available for download on their designated console. Players who are not part of the test will need to wait for the full, polished patch to experience all the new improvements and content.

Key updates include fixing containers in inventories to retain their contents when destroyed, simplifying screenshot functionality in Photo Mode for Steam Deck users, enhancing pose responsiveness, improving cross-play features, updating the Booming Blade tooltip values, and resolving several crash issues. For a detailed list of all enhancements, visit the official Baldur's Gate 3 website's news section.

As one of the last major feature-packed updates before Larian moves on from the world of Faerûn, Patch 8 promises to be significant, necessitating thorough stress testing. The patch will introduce platform cross-play, over 12 new subclasses including a Death Domain Cleric, a Path of Giants Barbarian, and an Arcane Archer Fighter, and the eagerly awaited Photo Mode.

Photo Mode Is As Customizable As It Can Be

While awaiting the official rollout of Patch 8, players can explore an in-depth sneak peek video showcasing how to maximize the potential of the upcoming Photo Mode. Larian aims for players to get the "Absolute most out of Photo Mode from the start."

Photo Mode can be accessed almost anytime during gameplay—whether you're adventuring, in combat, or playing multiplayer as the host. You can arrange companions and characters in any pose you desire, with or without party members, and even include additional elements like a jumping frog that can dominate half the screen. The free-moving camera adds to the flexibility, allowing for the perfect shot from any angle.

Once you've captured your scene, enhance it with post-processing effects, stickers, and frames to add that personal touch. However, during dialogues and cinematic cutscenes, you'll be limited to adding post-process effects without the ability to adjust poses.

This sneak peek is just the beginning, as Larian plans to release a tips and tricks video to further inspire and guide players in unleashing their creativity with Photo Mode.