The stress test for the eighth and possibly final major update of Baldur's Gate III is now underway. Some Sony console players had early access to this patch, but if you're not keen on testing it out, the developers suggest a full reinstall of the game to ensure optimal performance.
Patch 8 brings several exciting updates, with crossplay being a standout feature. This update allows players on various platforms—consoles and PC alike—to join forces in the game. You can invite friends from different platforms as long as they have a linked Larian account. What's more, modded gameplay will also support cross-platform play, provided that all mods used by the PC player are also available on Mac and consoles, and the host's lobby does not exceed a double-digit number of mods.
For multiplayer enthusiasts, a much-anticipated feature is now under testing: split-screen co-op on Xbox Series S. Previously, this feature was unavailable on this lower-powered console, making this update a significant win for Xbox Series S users.
Beyond multiplayer enhancements, Patch 8 introduces a robust photo mode with numerous customization options, adding a new layer of engagement for players. Additionally, 12 new subclasses have been added, offering even more variety to character builds. Larian has also worked on bug fixes and rebalancing, though some issues persist. For a comprehensive list of changes introduced in the stress test, please visit the game’s official page.