Obsidian Entertainment has released new beta updates for Pillars of Eternity and Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire, introducing native controller support to both role playing games.
The updates, released on November 4, 2026, allow players to experience both games using a gamepad instead of relying on keyboard and mouse controls.
This is particularly useful for Steam Deck owners, as both titles already perform well on Valve's handheld but previously required less convenient control arrangements.
The new controller implementation supports the complete gameplay experience, including character creation, exploration, combat and menu navigation.
However, the feature remains in public testing, meaning some interface problems may still require adjustments.
Pillars of Eternity Controller Support Covers the Entire Game
The new beta patches introduce controller support across both games, allowing players to complete their adventures without switching to traditional PC controls.
In Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire, this includes naval combat alongside the existing real time and turn based combat systems.
Early testing suggests that character movement, combat interactions and menu navigation work well with the updated controls.
However, some limitations remain. Character creation can feel slower when navigating between different tabs, while the selected interface element is not always clearly visible.
Button prompts displayed along the bottom of the screen can also occupy considerable space, particularly on the Steam Deck's smaller display.
These issues could receive further attention before the updates leave beta testing.
Beta Updates Also Improve Combat and Steam Deck Features
Beyond controller compatibility, the patches introduce additional improvements.
Steam Deck players can now access the virtual keyboard when entering character names, making the setup process more convenient.
Pillars of Eternity 2 also receives recent turn based combat adjustments previously introduced in the original game.
Character speed now influences turn order, combat becomes more lethal, and switching weapons or drinking potions no longer consumes an action.
Both games remain available on Steam for $29.99 each.
To access the new controller features, open the game's Properties menu in Steam and navigate to Game Versions.
Select Public Test for the original Pillars of Eternity or Beta for Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire.
Because these improvements are currently experimental, players may encounter occasional interface issues.
Nevertheless, the updates make both RPGs considerably more practical for handheld gaming and provide a more comfortable experience for players who prefer controllers.
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