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Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
Item: Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2018

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Open World, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMay 8, 2018

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperObsidian Entertainment

Overview

Obsidian Entertainment proudly presents the sequel to our crowdfunded and critically-acclaimed role-playing game, Pillars of Eternity. Welcome to Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire. With Pillars II, we are revisiting the rich narrative, beautiful environments, and tactical combat that made Pillars of Eternity one of the highest-rated PC games of all time.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire receives praise for its depth, engaging narrative, and rich world-building, with player choices significantly impacting the story. Critics admire its vibrant writing and philosophical themes, but some point out issues like linearity, character weaknesses, and narrative fragmentation. While the game is largely seen as a strong sequel, it has notable shortcomings that could affect player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its depth, complexity, and engaging narrative. Reviewers such as GameSpot and RPGamer highlight the intricate world-building and moral dilemmas presented throughout the game, emphasizing how the narrative is enriched by player choices that can significantly impact relationships and outcomes. Critics like Wccftech and GameSpew commend the vibrant writing, comparing it to that of a well-crafted fantasy novel, while Gameblog.fr and RPG Fan appreciate the philosophical inquiries and existential themes woven into the story. The ability to import characters from the first game is also noted as a strong feature, allowing for continuity and deeper engagement with the narrative, as seen in the reviews by Hardcore Gamer and RPGamer. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable weaknesses in the story. DarkStation and Multiplayer.it express disappointment regarding the main quest's linearity and the lack of compelling characters compared to the first installment. Others, like PlayGround.ru and Riot Pixels, mention that the narrative suffers from fragmentation and a lack of cohesion, which detracts from the overall experience. The pacing issues highlighted by Areajugones and the limited impact of player choices on the main narrative, as noted by Ragequit.gr, further contribute to the mixed sentiments surrounding the story's execution. In summary, while the majority of critics regard the story of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire as very good, with engaging writing and rich themes, there are notable criticisms regarding its coherence and character development. The consensus reflects a strong appreciation for the game's narrative depth and moral complexity, as illustrated by the positive remarks from critics like Cubed3 and Jeuxvideo.com. However, the concerns raised by others indicate that while the game excels in many areas, it also has room for improvement in crafting a more cohesive and engaging main storyline. Overall, the critical reception suggests that Deadfire is a worthy continuation of its predecessor, albeit with some shortcomings that may affect the experience for certain players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire impresses with deep character customization and strategic gameplay, earning praise for its refined combat and engaging exploration. Critics laud the multiclassing feature and rewarding quests, but flag repetitive naval combat and some unbalanced encounters as major flaws. While the reduction of party size limits strategy, the game still delivers a rich RPG experience. It successfully merges classic elements with new mechanics, though execution in certain areas, like naval battles, falls short. Overall, it’s a compelling adventure for RPG fans, despite its drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire has garnered praise for its deep customization options and strategic elements, appealing to fans of classic RPG mechanics. Critics like Game Revolution and Wccftech highlight the refined combat system and the introduction of multiclassing, which allows for varied character builds and enhances replayability. The game’s exploration mechanics are also well-received, with many reviewers noting the rewarding nature of discovering new areas and engaging in quests. For instance, RPG Fan appreciates the dialogue choices based on stats and reputation, while GameStar emphasizes the freedom and choices available to players, including ship management and exploration. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Many reviewers express dissatisfaction with the naval combat, describing it as repetitive and lacking depth. Critics such as Riot Pixels and DarkStation point out that the ship battles feel poorly executed and detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including Everyeye.it and RPGamer, note that the combat can become unbalanced and tedious over time, leading to repetitive encounters. The reduction of party size from six to five is also seen as a drawback by some, limiting the strategic options available during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire offers significant improvements in character customization and exploration, it struggles with certain gameplay mechanics, particularly in naval combat. The game successfully retains the classic RPG elements that fans love, as noted by IGN and PC Gamer, but the execution of some new features, like ship management and naval battles, leaves much to be desired. Despite these criticisms, the game provides a rich experience with a blend of tactical combat and narrative depth, making it a worthwhile adventure for both new and returning players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire impresses critics with its vibrant graphics and artistic blend of 2D and 3D elements, creating an immersive world full of life. While praised for enhancements over its predecessor, it faces criticism for performance issues, asset reuse, and limited character customization. Overall, the game is celebrated for its visual appeal and engaging atmosphere, despite some technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the significant enhancements over its predecessor. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and RPGamer highlighted the vibrant world teeming with life and the spectacular spell effects that contribute to an engaging visual experience. The game’s artistic direction, which blends 2D and 3D elements, was noted by critics such as IGN and God is a Geek, who appreciated the quality of environments, character designs, and water textures. Additionally, the dynamic weather and day-night cycles mentioned by Windows Central add a layer of realism that enhances immersion, while the richly detailed environments and cultural influences celebrated by GameWatcher and Gameblog.fr create a visually stunning backdrop for players to explore. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and performance. For instance, PLAY! Zine remarked that while the game looks impressive, it does not match the best visuals on the market and noted performance issues. GameSpace and GameOver.gr echoed similar sentiments, mentioning technical weaknesses such as frequent loading screens and frame rate drops, particularly on consoles. Furthermore, RPG Fan pointed out the reuse of assets and limited options for character races, indicating that while the visuals are improved, they aren't without their flaws. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire features a visually impressive design that significantly improves upon its predecessor, showcasing a vibrant and immersive world. While there are some technical issues and aesthetic limitations noted by critics like GameOver.gr and PLAY! Zine, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game’s artistic achievements and the enhancements made in graphics and visual design. Overall, the game is seen as a visually appealing addition to the RPG genre, with a lively atmosphere that captivates players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire has received rave reviews for its orchestral score and immersive sound design, praised for enhancing player experience through well-composed music and standout voice acting, especially from notable talents like the Critical Role cast. While critics acknowledge some repetitive elements in the soundtrack and minor audio issues, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the game's audio as a significant strength that enriches its adventure theme and character interactions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting the game's impressive orchestral score and immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as COGconnected and Digital Chumps praised the extensive use of fully-orchestrated music and voiced dialogue, which significantly enhances player immersion. The soundtrack, featuring sea shanties and a mix of soothing and intense melodies, has been described as fantastical and well-composed by critics like Impulsegamer and Hardcore Gamer. The voice acting, particularly from notable talents including the cast of Critical Role, has been highlighted as a standout feature, with critics like Critical Hit and Softpedia noting its contribution to the narrative depth and overall atmosphere of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks in the sound design and music. Impulsegamer noted that while the soundtrack is enjoyable, it can become repetitive over time. Additionally, BaziCenter raised concerns about audio issues, mentioning inconsistent voice acting and sound cutouts during dialogues, which detracted from the overall experience. RPGamer also commented on the soundtrack's lack of memorability, suggesting that while it serves its purpose, it does not leave a lasting impression. Such criticisms indicate that while the audio elements are generally well-received, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire excels in sound design and music, creating an immersive and atmospheric experience that enhances gameplay. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the orchestral score and the quality of voice acting, with many citing it as a significant improvement over its predecessor. Critics like USgamer and Vandal emphasized that the soundtrack effectively complements the adventure theme, while the extensive voice acting adds depth to character interactions. Despite some minor criticisms, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, affirming that the game's audio elements are a key strength in its design.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is widely praised for enhancing player engagement and storytelling, supported by a talented cast from Critical Role. Critics highlight its immersive impact, but some note inconsistencies and missed opportunities, such as the player's character lacking a voice. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the voice work is a standout feature that significantly boosts the game's narrative depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising its quality and execution. Reviewers such as Cubed3 and Eurogamer Italy noted that the voice acting enhances player engagement with the story and characters, making the extensive text more enjoyable. Critics like Impulsegamer highlighted the involvement of the talented cast from Critical Role, which not only elevates the performances but also deepens player investment in the narrative. The game features nearly fully voiced dialogues, as mentioned by critics like PLAY! Zine and Game Revolution, which significantly contributes to the immersive experience and storytelling, allowing players to connect more deeply with the characters and their journeys. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the voice acting quality. BaziCenter pointed out inconsistencies in the voice performances, which detracted from the overall experience. DarkStation echoed this sentiment, mentioning that some characters exhibited poor accents and dull personalities, which could disrupt immersion. Additionally, PlaySense noted that the absence of voice for the player's character was a missed opportunity, suggesting that this could have further enriched the game’s narrative depth. While the majority of critics found the voice acting to be a strong point, these criticisms indicate that there are areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a significant strength, contributing positively to the game's immersive experience and narrative delivery. Most reviewers, including COGconnected and GameSpace, highlighted the exceptional quality and execution of the voice performances, which enhance character interactions and storytelling. Despite some noted inconsistencies and missed opportunities, the general sentiment is that the voice acting elevates the game, making it a standout feature in the RPG genre. The involvement of a talented cast, particularly from Critical Role, has been a key factor in this acclaim, underscoring the importance of quality voice acting in modern gaming narratives.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire faces serious technical performance issues, especially on PS4, where critics report frequent crashes, long load times, and poor optimization. While some PC players enjoy a smoother experience, overall feedback highlights significant flaws on both platforms, leaving much to be desired.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, it is evident that the game has received a mixed reception across different platforms. For the PlayStation 4, some critics, such as Digital Chumps and The Indie Game Website, reported a relatively smooth gameplay experience without crashes, indicating that the game can run well under certain conditions. Additionally, Areajugones noted that the PC version is technically solid, with no significant performance issues, suggesting a well-optimized experience for some players. IGN also praised the game for running smoothly without graphical hiccups, enhancing the overall experience, particularly on PC. However, the negatives overwhelmingly dominate the feedback for the PS4 version. Critics like COGconnected, Cubed3, and PlayStation Country highlighted severe technical issues such as long loading times, frequent crashes, and control problems that significantly hinder the gaming experience. GameOver.gr pointed out a game-breaking bug that could corrupt saves, while PlaySense and Impulsegamer echoed these sentiments, emphasizing poor optimization on consoles. On the PC side, while some reviews indicated stable performance, others like New Game Network and Everyeye.it pointed out significant technical issues, including crashes, long loading times, and frame rate drops, which detract from the overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire suffers from substantial technical performance issues, particularly on the PS4. While there are some positive notes regarding the gameplay experience on PC, with critics like Areajugones and Wccftech acknowledging improvements in stability and performance, the overwhelming feedback suggests that both platforms have significant room for improvement. The PS4 version, in particular, has been criticized for its optimization, leading to a less than satisfactory experience for many players, as echoed by multiple reviews highlighting critical bugs and long loading times.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire boasts strong replay value with its rich character customization, diverse quests, and impactful choices, winning praise from critics for its dense content and exploration. While some concerns exist about limited story-altering choices and potential gameplay repetitiveness, the game's non-linear structure and faction interactions create a compelling experience, particularly for RPG fans. Overall, it’s a game that invites players to dive back in despite a few drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the game's extensive character customization options, diverse quests, and the freedom of choice it offers players. Critics such as GameSpot and Game Informer commend the game for its dense content and numerous side stories, which encourage exploration and provide players with a sense of discovery. The ability to import saved games from the first installment, as noted by Impulsegamer and GamesBeat, further enhances replayability, allowing players to experience varied outcomes based on their previous choices. Additionally, the game's non-linear gameplay and multiple faction interactions, emphasized by RPG Site and Vandal, contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences that can be revisited multiple times. However, not all opinions are uniformly positive. Some critics express concerns about the game's replay value being diminished by certain flaws. Gameblog.fr points out a lack of impactful choices that significantly alter the story's outcome, while IGN Spain mentions that decisions from the first game have limited impact on the second, suggesting a moderate replay value. Additionally, GameOver.gr raises issues with content overload, which might overwhelm players and detract from the overall experience. Critics like Everyeye.it also note that the repetitive nature of gameplay could limit replayability, indicating that while the game has many strengths, it is not without its drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire offers substantial replay value, particularly for fans of the RPG genre. The majority of critics, including Hardcore Gamer and Twinfinite, affirm that the game's depth, character builds, and branching narratives create a compelling reason for players to return. The combination of a vast world to explore, multiple factions to engage with, and a wealth of customization options makes for a highly replayable experience. Ultimately, while there are some concerns regarding the impact of choices and potential repetitiveness, the strong emphasis on exploration and player agency leads to a favorable outlook on the game's replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its rich storytelling, deep gameplay mechanics, and the immersive world it offers. Reviewers like IGN and PC Gamer highlight the game's engaging side stories and beautiful visuals, which contribute to a compelling RPG experience. Critics such as God is a Geek and GameSpot commend the layered combat and the significant improvements made over its predecessor, emphasizing that the game stands out in the genre. The game is often described as a worthy successor to Pillars of Eternity, with Cubed3 noting its well-crafted narrative and gameplay that appeals to both new and veteran players. However, the game is not without its flaws, particularly in the realm of technical performance. Critics like Impulsegamer and PlayStation LifeStyle point out that the console ports suffer from bugs and loading issues, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including ZTGD and RPGamer, mention that the main plot lacks cohesion and depth, which can leave players wanting more. The technical issues are a recurring theme, with Push Square lamenting that the game feels trapped by its performance problems despite being a high-quality RPG. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a highly commendable RPG, particularly for fans of the genre. While technical issues and narrative coherence are valid concerns raised by several reviewers, the game's strengths in world-building, character interactions, and gameplay mechanics largely outweigh these drawbacks. Critics like GameCrate and Digitally Downloaded recommend the game as a must-play, reinforcing the notion that it offers a rich and rewarding experience for dedicated RPG fans. Despite its imperfections, the game is celebrated for its ambition and depth, making it a standout title in the RPG landscape.

TL;DR

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a critically acclaimed RPG celebrated for its rich storytelling, immersive world, and improved gameplay over its predecessor. Reviewers praise its engaging side quests and beautiful visuals, making it a standout in the genre. However, technical issues, particularly on console ports, and a less cohesive main plot are notable flaws. Despite these setbacks, the game's strengths resonate with RPG fans, making it a must-play for those who appreciate depth and ambition in gaming.

MONSTER

Reviews

131 reviews found

100

GameWatcher

May 9, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is hailed as a near-perfect RPG, setting a high standard in storytelling, gameplay, and presentation.

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100

MMORPG.com

May 8, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a masterful cRPG that excels in storytelling, gameplay, and immersion, deserving of its perfect score.

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100

Windows Central

May 8, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is praised as an amazing RPG that successfully builds on its predecessor, offering a rich experience for fans of the genre.

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GameSpace

May 8, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is described as a worthy sequel that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering a richer and more expansive experience.

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3DJuegos

May 9, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire es un RPG excepcional que combina una narrativa poderosa, un sistema de combate emocionante y una experiencia inmersiva, consolidándose como uno de los mejores videojuegos de 2018.

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Worth Playing

May 8, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is highly recommended for fans of isometric RPGs, blending epic storytelling with engaging gameplay and a rich world, making it a potential new favorite.

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Areajugones

May 14, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is praised as a masterful RPG that successfully blends classic elements with modern gameplay, despite some narrative pacing issues. It stands out as one of the best RPGs of recent years.

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AusGamers

May 21, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a highly recommended RPG with a deep and expansive story, impressive visuals, and the freedom to make choices that impact the narrative.

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CGMagazine

May 8, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a near-perfect sequel that builds upon the foundation of the first game. It offers a more polished and engaging experience, fixing many of the problems of its predecessor.

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Game Debate

Oct 22, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Pillars of Eternity as the best D&D series that never was.