
Larian Studios has released a Stress Test update ahead of the highly anticipated Patch 8 for Baldur's Gate 3. This stress test serves as a crucial step to ensure the stability and functionality of the upcoming patch. Dive into the details of the stress test, what it includes, and what to expect from Patch 8.
Patch 8 Stress Test Update 1 Arrives With Bug Fixes

Larian has introduced an update to the Patch 8 Stress Test build, addressing numerous bugs, crashes, and scripting errors. A notable fix ensures that Gale properly consumes magical items as intended. This update is exclusively available to testers who have access to the Patch 8 stress test on their designated consoles. Those not participating in the stress test will need to wait for the full, polished version of Patch 8 to experience the new enhancements and content.
Key improvements in this update include:
- Containers in inventories now retain their contents even when destroyed.
- Enhanced screenshot functionality in Photo Mode for Steam Deck users.
- More responsive poses and improved cross-play functionality.
- Updated values for the Booming Blade tooltip.
- Resolution of several crash issues.
For a comprehensive list of the update's improvements, visit the official Baldur's Gate 3 website's news section.
Patch 8 is poised to be a monumental update, marking one of the last major feature-rich patches from Larian before they conclude their journey in Faerûn. It will introduce platform cross-play, over 12 new subclasses such as the Death Domain Cleric, Path of Giants Barbarian, and Arcane Archer Fighter, and the much-awaited Photo Mode.
Photo Mode Is As Customizable As It Can Be
While awaiting the official release of Patch 8, players can explore a detailed sneak peek video showcasing how to maximize the potential of the upcoming Photo Mode. Larian aims to help players "get the Absolute most out of Photo Mode from the start."
Photo Mode offers unparalleled flexibility, accessible almost anytime during gameplay, including while adventuring, in combat, and in multiplayer (by the host player). Players can arrange companions and characters in custom poses, with or without party members, and even include whimsical elements like a jumping frog that dominates the screen. The free-moving camera allows for capturing the perfect shot from any angle.
Enhance your photos further with post-processing effects, stickers, and frames. However, during dialogues and cinematic cutscenes, only post-process effects can be added; pose manipulation is not available.
Larian plans to release additional tips and tricks videos to further inspire and guide players in unleashing their creativity through Photo Mode.