The eagerly awaited stress test for what might be the eighth and final major update to Baldur's Gate III has officially kicked off. While some Sony console players have already had a sneak peek at Patch 8, the developers suggest a clean reinstall for those not keen on testing, ensuring a smooth experience when the patch goes live.
Patch 8 brings a host of exciting features, with crossplay taking center stage. This means players across different platforms can now join forces in their adventures. As long as you have a linked Larian account, inviting friends from other platforms becomes a breeze. What's more, even modded gameplay will support cross-platform play, but there are a couple of caveats. All mods used by a PC player must be compatible with Mac and consoles, and the host's lobby should keep the number of installed mods in the double digits to maintain stability.
For multiplayer enthusiasts, there's good news on the horizon. Patch 8 is testing split-screen co-op on the Xbox Series S, a feature previously unavailable due to the console's lower power. This development is a game-changer for fans of the Xbox Series S, finally allowing them to enjoy split-screen gaming with friends.
Patch 8 doesn't stop there. A new photo mode is introduced, offering a plethora of customization options for capturing your most epic moments in the game. Additionally, the update enriches the gameplay with 12 new subclasses, adding depth and variety to character development. Larian Studios has also tackled numerous bugs and rebalanced game elements, though some minor issues persist. For a comprehensive rundown of all changes during the stress test, check out the official game page.