Where can I find the Ring of Protection in Baldur's Gate 3?

The Ring of Protection is a valuable magical item in Baldur's Gate 3 that provides a +1 bonus to both Armor Class (AC) and saving throws. This makes it a highly sought-after piece of equipment for any character, as it enhances both defensive capabilities and overall survivability. Obtaining the Ring of Protection requires careful exploration and interaction with specific characters and locations in the game. Here is a detailed guide on how to find and acquire the Ring of Protection, along with important tips and considerations.

To find the Ring of Protection, you need to progress through the game's story and reach the Druid Grove, which is one of the early areas in Act 1. The Druid Grove is a location filled with various NPCs, quests, and hidden treasures. The Ring of Protection is tied to a specific quest involving a character named Mol, who is a Tiefling child and a member of the Tiefling refugees staying in the Druid Grove. Mol is involved in several quests and interactions, and gaining her trust is key to obtaining the Ring of Protection.

The first step is to locate Mol within the Druid Grove. She can usually be found near the Tiefling children's hideout, which is located in the northern part of the grove. Mol is involved in a quest called "Steal the Sacred Idol," where she asks you to steal a sacred idol from the Druids. This quest is optional, but completing it can lead to obtaining the Ring of Protection. However, stealing the idol has consequences, as it will anger the Druids and potentially lead to combat. Therefore, it is important to consider your approach carefully.

If you choose to help Mol and steal the idol, you will need to navigate the Druid Grove stealthily. Using characters with high Dexterity and proficiency in Stealth, such as Rogues or Rangers, can make this task easier. You can also use spells like Invisibility or Pass Without Trace to avoid detection. Once you have the idol, return it to Mol, and she will reward you with the Ring of Protection. This is the most straightforward way to obtain the ring, but it comes with the risk of turning the Druids hostile.

Alternatively, you can choose not to steal the idol and still gain Mol's trust through other means. Completing other quests that benefit the Tiefling refugees, such as helping them with their preparations to leave the grove or resolving conflicts peacefully, can also improve your standing with Mol. If you gain enough favor with her, she may offer the Ring of Protection as a reward without requiring you to steal the idol. This approach avoids the negative consequences of angering the Druids but may take more time and effort.

It is important to note that the Ring of Protection is a rare and powerful item, and obtaining it early in the game can significantly boost your character's survivability. The +1 bonus to AC and saving throws is particularly useful for characters who rely on defense, such as Fighters, Paladins, or Clerics. However, it is also beneficial for any character, as it provides a general improvement to both physical and magical defenses.

When using the Ring of Protection, consider how it fits into your overall equipment and build. For example, if you are playing a character who already has high AC, such as a heavily armored Fighter, the ring can further enhance your defenses. On the other hand, if you are playing a character with lower AC, such as a Wizard or Sorcerer, the ring can help mitigate some of their vulnerabilities. Additionally, the +1 bonus to saving throws is valuable for resisting spells and other magical effects, making it a versatile choice for any character.

One common mistake to avoid is underestimating the consequences of stealing the idol. While it may seem like a quick way to obtain the Ring of Protection, it can lead to significant repercussions, including turning the Druids hostile and potentially locking you out of other quests or interactions in the Druid Grove. Therefore, it is important to weigh the benefits of obtaining the ring against the potential downsides of your actions.

Advanced techniques for obtaining the Ring of Protection include using dialogue options and persuasion checks to avoid combat or negative outcomes. For example, if you have a character with high Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion, you may be able to talk your way out of trouble or convince Mol to give you the ring without requiring you to steal the idol. Additionally, using stealth and invisibility spells can help you complete the quest without alerting the Druids, allowing you to obtain the ring without negative consequences.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, the Ring of Protection functions similarly to its tabletop counterpart. It provides a +1 bonus to AC and saving throws, which are core mechanics in both Baldur's Gate 3 and the D&D 5th Edition ruleset. AC determines how difficult it is for enemies to hit you with physical attacks, while saving throws are used to resist spells, traps, and other effects. The ring's bonuses are passive and always active, making it a reliable source of defense.

In conclusion, the Ring of Protection is a powerful and versatile item that can greatly enhance your character's survivability in Baldur's Gate 3. Obtaining it requires careful consideration of your actions and their consequences, as well as strategic use of skills and abilities. Whether you choose to steal the idol or gain Mol's trust through other means, the ring is a valuable addition to any character's equipment. By following the steps and tips outlined above, you can successfully acquire the Ring of Protection and make the most of its benefits in your adventures.