Starting your adventure in the vast world of Baldur's Gate 3 might leave you wondering if there are important initial steps you should take. Rest assured, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the most vital things to do when beginning a new journey in BG3. Keep in mind, though, that even if you miss some things or make uncertain choices, the organic experience often leads to the most authentic and memorable adventures.
1. Rescue Shadowheart from the Nautiloid
Unless you're roleplaying differently, rescuing Shadowheart early can make the game's start easier. Her Trickery Domain Cleric skills are valuable for support.
2. Defeat the Commander to Loot the Everburn Blade
On the Nautiloid, battling Commander Zhalk can earn you the powerful Everburn Blade. Starting with a party of four, including Lae'zel, can make this fight more manageable. Just make sure one character reaches the transponder to ensure your party's safe arrival on the beach.
3. Loot Everything on the Beach
Look for Thieves' Tools near the first locked chest on the beach. Astarion can use them for lockpicking, or you can if you've invested in Dexterity and Sleight of Hand. Also, north of the crash, you'll find deceased Goblins with gold, weapons, and a supply pack that's essential for a Long Rest.
4. Find a Shovel to Keep in Your Inventory
Locate a shovel on Ravaged Beach, northwest of the Roadside Cliffs waypoint, and keep it in your inventory. It's indispensable for unearthing treasures buried in dirt mounds.
5. Recruit All the Companions
Seek and recruit the remaining Origin Characters you didn't select during character creation. Building a diverse party ensures you won't miss out on crucial skills and abilities. Astarion can pick locks, Shadowheart can heal, and Lae'zel can leap great distances. Keep an eye out for more companions beyond the Origin Characters as well.
6. Find Withers’ Sarcophagus
Explore the Overgrown Ruins and Dank Crypt, heading right along the beach from the starting area. Inside, you'll discover a room with a button – press it, vanquish the Skeletons, and interact with the sarcophagus to unleash Withers. This action unlocks the ability to respec your characters, resurrect fallen allies, and hire Hirelings.
With these crucial steps, your journey in Baldur's Gate III is off to a solid start. Explore, experiment, and make your mark in this captivating world filled with choice and consequence.