Baldur’s Gate 3 patch 5 now live, adds more hardcore modes

The Latest Update for Baldur’s Gate 3

The newest patch for Baldur’s Gate 3 is a substantial one. So much so, that Larian Studios is recommending players to uninstall and reinstall the game due to the significant amount of storage space required for the update. But this patch, Patch 5, comes with a plethora of new features, such as playable epilogues featuring some of the most intricate writing in the game, the option for a more realistic D&D experience, and a brand-new difficulty setting that discourages save scumming.

While certain players may choose to engage in save scumming, others might be interested in diving into the new Honour Mode. Larian Studios explains that this new difficulty setting intensifies the already challenging Tactician mode and introduces over 30 tweaks to all of Baldur’s Gate 3’s boss fights. The new Legendary Action system is designed to catch players off-guard and increase the level of challenge.

Honour Mode only permits a single save file throughout its perilous campaign. Essentially, it is the hardcore mode of the game where death results in the end of the Honour Mode run. However, the effort is rewarded with a golden D20 and, of course, bragging rights.

Image: Larian Studios

Another new difficulty option, Custom Mode, leaves the choice up to players. In Custom Mode, players are given the freedom to opt for a single save file restriction or align their experience to a more realistic Dungeons & Dragons tabletop experience. This includes the ability to hide the required roll to succeed in dice checks, conceal enemy hit points in battle, disable Death Saving Throws, and hide failed Perception Checks, among other customizable features.

Players of Baldur’s Gate 3 who are nearing the end of the game or planning a replay can also enjoy new playable epilogues. These epilogues are described by Larian as the culmination of every choice and consequence made, leading to an opportunity for reflection on the journey before saying goodbye.

Additionally, the patch includes Orin’s revealing outfit as loot, various Act III performance improvements, and more convenient inventory management for characters who aren’t in the active party. For more details from Baldur’s Gate 3 patch 5, take a look at Larian’s patch highlights and full patch notes.