Updates on Solasta 2

A decade has been a significant span for the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition ruleset, first released in 2014. Due to its success, altering it would have been a poor decision. Instead, Wizards of the Coast is opting for a more refined approach similar to the Essentials line of the 4th edition—an upgrade that maintains compatibility with existing rules while addressing previous criticisms.

The 2024 update is essentially an enhancement, well-received among players, though some critics have termed it ‘woke’ for various reasons. However, examining the actual changes reveals it to be a straightforward improvement, formalizing many house rules already in practice.

This news is especially promising for the sequel to Solasta: Crown of the Magister, a CRPG that utilizes the Open Gaming License to provide an authentic D&D experience, albeit with a different branding. After initial demos still operating under the 2014 rules, developers at Tactical Adventures have affirmed that they are officially transitioning to the 2024 rule set.

Key Changes

Two significant changes are highlighted as merits of this upgrade. Firstly, the introduction of new weapon mastery rules makes combat more engaging, adding elements like cleaving, pushing, and toppling to enhance attack dynamics, mirroring options implemented in Baldur’s Gate 3. Additionally, revisions to class mechanics, such as enabling clerics to select between a combat orientation or a magical focus from the outset, aim to deliver richer class experiences. Moreover, sorcerers are now able to activate ‘Innate Sorcery’ as a bonus action for increased spell attack advantages, and fighters can utilize ‘Second Wind’ to boost ability checks alongside its healing properties.

Expect early access for Solasta 2 later this year, with a demo already available on Steam.