Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a wealth of distinct quests and narratives that lead to a variety of outcomes, ensuring that no two players share the same experience. Each playthrough is entirely unique, shaped by the decisions that players make. These choices can profoundly affect the destiny of characters and can either provide strategic advantages or handicaps.
While most quests in BG3 remain relatively consistent, regardless of the order in which they are completed, Larian Studios empowers players with the freedom to carve their own narratives. However, a notable exception exists: completing a key quest unlocks a special cutscene, adding a touch of excitement to Act 1’s most memorable moments.
Saving the Deep Gnomes: Welcoming Barcus to the Tiefling Party
The outcome of the Emerald Grove event in Act 1 serves as a pivotal moment in Baldur’s Gate 3. Players face a crucial choice: will they side with Minthara in raiding the grove, or will they take action against the raiders? This decision determines whether a celebration with tieflings or goblins takes place. Typically, players receive their incentive to delve into Moonrise Towers only after this celebration, which can be accessed via the Underdark.
Due to the natural flow of the narrative, new players are unlikely to explore the Underdark before rescuing the Grove. Although still a part of the first act, the Underdark is perceived as more of a transitional zone to the second act. First-time gamers might hesitate to explore it, considering it a daunting new area. Yet, should players save Barcus from the windmill and the deep gnomes from Grymforge first, they will unlock a unique celebratory scene featuring Barcus igniting fireworks.
Steps to Save the Deep Gnomes Before Engaging the Goblins
Return to the Initial Map in Act 1
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After successfully rescuing Barcus from the windmill, the most efficient route to the Underdark is via the well in the Blighted Village. This passage leads to the “Whispering Depths,”where players will need to either jump or fall into a chasm that houses the Phase Spider Matriarch. For those interested in exploring alternative paths, options are available within Auntie Ethel’s lair and the Zhentarim basement in Waukeen’s Rest.
Players should ensure that Feather Fall is cast on any character leaping into the chasm to avoid an untimely demise.
Though most players might opt for the entrance at the ruined Selunite temple in the Goblin Camp, it can be more strategic to postpone confronting the goblin leaders. Bypassing Priestess Gut and her bodyguard tends to be more of a hassle than utilizing one of the other entry points to the Underdark, which are generally easier to navigate.
Upon accessing the Underdark, players should prioritize successfully completing the “Save the Grymforge Gnomes”quest while safeguarding the deep gnomes, with the exception of Meerna, who often meets a tragic end at the hands of True Soul Nere.
If Barcus survives the chaos of the confrontation with Nere and isn’t slain by the Duergar, he can be invited to rest at the camp. Subsequently, players are free to fast travel or make the trek back from the Underdark to proceed with the Emerald Grove quest, provided they haven’t advanced into Act 2 yet. This choice allows players to experience one of Baldur’s Gate 3’s stunning secret cutscenes.
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