Larian Studios is gearing up to surprise Baldur’s Gate 3 fans with the exciting new features coming in Patch 8. This update is poised to introduce some of the most anticipated community-requested elements to the beloved RPG.
Back in September, Larian rolled out Patch 7 for PC, with console players joining in a month later. This extensive update enhanced the game’s evil ending cinematics, introduced an in-game mod manager, and significantly boosted the split-screen experience. These major updates have continually refined Baldur’s Gate 3, making it even more impressive than at launch. Kudos to Larian’s commitment to excellence, as they persistently work to elevate the game even at the peak of its success.
In a recent blog post, Larian lifted the curtain on what’s in store with Patch 8. Top on the list is crossplay for Baldur’s Gate 3, which will let adventurers team up across different platforms via the Larian Network. Also joining the fray is the much-desired Photo Mode, packed with lens settings, post-processing tweaks, and ways to include or exclude NPCs to achieve that perfect snapshot. Players will find plenty to play with, thanks to customizable frames, stickers, and poses within this new mode.
Perhaps the most intriguing addition is the introduction of 12 fresh subclasses, bringing one new option per class. Larian promises each will boast “new abilities, animations, visual effects, summons and cantrips, and unique voiced dialogue.” Featuring standout subclasses like the Wizard’s Bladesinging and the Monk’s Drunken Master, this is a substantial content infusion. Although the 2025 release of Patch 8 remains somewhat vague without a set date, eager players will soon be able to join a stress test scheduled for early January.
The Patch 8 announcement also marked Larian’s intention to “bid Faerûn adieu in search of stranger shores.” Though we’ve known about the studio’s plans to move on, it’s still bittersweet news. With the key features like Photo Mode and crossplay finally reaching fruition, it feels like a natural conclusion for their work on Baldur’s Gate 3. Fortunately, with official modding tools now available, this isn’t the end of the road for fans, as new content from the community will keep the adventure alive for years to come.
