Larian Studios has announced that Patch 8, the final major update for Baldur’s Gate 3, will be released on April 15, 2025. This update introduces several significant features, including new subclasses, cross-platform play, and a comprehensive photo mode.
12 New Subclasses
Each of the game’s main classes receives a new subclass, expanding character customization and gameplay strategies:
- Bard: College of Glamour
- Barbarian: Path of Giants
- Cleric: Death Domain
- Druid: Circle of Stars
- Paladin: Oath of the Crown
- Fighter: Arcane Archer
- Monk: Drunken Master
- Ranger: Swarmkeeper
- Rogue: Swashbuckler
- Sorcerer: Shadow Magic
- Warlock: Hexblade
- Wizard: Bladesinging
These additions offer new abilities and playstyles, enhancing the depth and variety of character builds.
Cross-Platform Play
Patch 8 introduces crossplay functionality, allowing players on PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S to join multiplayer sessions together. This feature aims to unify the player base and streamline cooperative gameplay across different platforms.
Photo Mode
A new photo mode has been added, enabling players to capture in-game moments with various tools and settings. Features include adjustable camera angles, filters, poses, and the ability to include party members, summons, and wild shapes in shots. This mode is accessible via the HUD or designated hotkeys.
Additional Improvements
Beyond the headline features, Patch 8 brings several quality-of-life enhancements:
- Perception Check Improvements: Items revealed through Perception checks now ping on the minimap and are listed in the combat log.
- Inventory Interaction: Scrolls and potions in unlocked containers can now be used during dialogue rolls.
- NPC Behavior: Fixed issues where NPCs would unnecessarily become hostile due to surface effects outside of combat.
- Pathfinding and Platforming: Resolved bugs causing characters to get stuck on ladders or platforms.
- Cinematic Polishing: Improved animations for character interactions during certain story moments, including intimate scenes and height-based interactions.
- Minthara and Storyline Flow: Fixed various scripting issues with Minthara to ensure smoother interactions and progression, including her appearances in Moonrise Towers and Act II.
Larian Studios has indicated that this will be the final major update for Baldur’s Gate 3, as they plan to focus on new projects beyond the Dungeons & Dragons universe. To showcase the update’s content, a livestream featuring senior communications developer Aoife Wilson and senior systems designer Ross Stephens is scheduled for April 16 at 9 AM ET.
For more details and to participate in the upcoming features, players can refer to the official announcements and community forums.