The difficulties in Divinity: Original Sin 2 vary in terms of enemy strength, combat complexity, and overall challenge. They range from Explorer mode for beginners to Tactician mode for experienced players looking for a tough challenge. Each difficulty level offers a different level of resource management and tactical decision-making.
Difficulty Levels
Divinity: Original Sin 2 offers players four distinct difficulty levels to choose from: Story Mode, Explorer Mode, Classic Mode, and Tactician Mode. Each difficulty level presents a unique set of challenges that cater to different player preferences and skill levels. Story Mode is designed for players who want to experience the game's narrative without the stress of challenging combat encounters. On the other end of the spectrum, Tactician Mode provides a punishing experience that will put even the most seasoned players to the test.
Enemy Scaling
One of the key differences between the difficulty levels in Divinity: Original Sin 2 is how enemy scaling is handled. In Story Mode, enemies are significantly weaker compared to the player characters, making battles more manageable. Explorer Mode balances the scales a bit more, offering a moderate challenge for players who want a fair fight. Classic Mode is where enemy scaling is relatively balanced, providing a challenge without feeling unfairly difficult. Tactician Mode takes enemy scaling to the extreme, with enemies being significantly stronger and more tactically savvy than on lower difficulty levels, requiring a deep understanding of game mechanics and strategy to succeed.
Resource Management
Resource management is another area where the difficulty levels in Divinity: Original Sin 2 differ. In Story Mode, resources such as health potions and spell scrolls are more abundant, allowing players to rely on them more heavily during battles. Explorer Mode reduces the availability of these resources, encouraging players to use them strategically. Classic Mode further tightens the resource supply, forcing players to carefully consider when and how to use their limited supply. Tactician Mode is the most punishing in terms of resource management, requiring players to make every resource count and plan their actions meticulously to survive tough encounters.
Companion AI
Another aspect that varies across the difficulty levels in Divinity: Original Sin 2 is the behavior of companion AI during combat. In Story Mode, companion AI is more forgiving and helpful, making it easier for players to coordinate their actions and strategize effectively. Explorer Mode introduces more complex AI behaviors, with companions making decisions based on the player's actions and the combat situation. Classic Mode presents an even greater challenge, as companions may act independently and make decisions that can sometimes work against the player's strategy. Tactician Mode pushes this further, with companion AI being much more unpredictable and less cooperative, requiring players to micromanage their companions to achieve victory.
Encounter Design
Lastly, the design of combat encounters differs between the difficulty levels in Divinity: Original Sin 2. In Story Mode, encounters are generally easier and less complex, allowing players to progress through the game with minimal resistance. Explorer Mode ramps up the challenge by introducing more varied and strategic encounter designs, requiring players to think on their feet and adapt to different combat situations. Classic Mode takes this even further, with encounters becoming more intricate and demanding, testing players' mastery of game mechanics and tactics. Tactician Mode features the most challenging encounter designs, with enemies often employing advanced strategies and synergies to outwit the player, making every battle a grueling test of skill and perseverance.
Overall, the differences in difficulty levels in Divinity: Original Sin 2 offer a wide range of gaming experiences, from a more relaxed and narrative-focused journey to a hardcore strategic challenge that will push players to their limits. Each difficulty level caters to a different playstyle and skill level, ensuring that players can find their ideal level of challenge and enjoyment in this epic role-playing adventure.