What is the solution to the puzzle in the Underdark in Baldur's Gate 3?

The puzzle in the Underdark in Baldur's Gate 3 is one of the more intriguing challenges players encounter. It involves a series of pressure plates and a set of statues that need to be activated in a specific sequence. The goal is to unlock a hidden passage that leads to valuable loot or further exploration. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to solve this puzzle, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

First, letÔÇÖs talk about the mechanics involved. The puzzle consists of several pressure plates scattered around a room. Each pressure plate corresponds to a statue in the room. When a character steps on a pressure plate, the corresponding statue will either light up or change its position. The objective is to activate all the statues in the correct sequence to unlock the hidden passage. The sequence is not immediately obvious and requires careful observation and experimentation.

To begin, you need to identify all the pressure plates and their corresponding statues. This can be done by having your party members stand on each plate one by one and observing which statue reacts. ItÔÇÖs important to note that some plates may trigger traps or other hazards, so proceed with caution. Once youÔÇÖve mapped out which plate corresponds to which statue, you can start working on the sequence.

The correct sequence is usually hinted at by the environment. Look for clues such as inscriptions on the walls, the arrangement of the statues, or any other environmental storytelling elements. In some cases, the sequence might be based on the order in which the statues are positioned in the room. For example, if the statues are arranged in a circle, the sequence might follow a clockwise or counterclockwise pattern.

Once you have a hypothesis about the sequence, test it by stepping on the plates in the proposed order. If the sequence is correct, each statue should light up or change position, and the hidden passage will unlock. If not, youÔÇÖll need to try a different sequence. This trial-and-error process can be time-consuming, but itÔÇÖs essential for solving the puzzle.

Here are some important tips and considerations. First, make sure to save your game before attempting the puzzle. This way, if you trigger a trap or make a mistake, you can reload and try again without losing progress. Second, consider using a character with high Dexterity or Perception to spot any hidden clues or traps. Third, if you have a character with the Mage Hand or similar abilities, you can use it to trigger the plates from a distance, reducing the risk of triggering traps.

Common mistakes to avoid include rushing through the puzzle without carefully observing the environment, stepping on multiple plates at once, and ignoring potential clues. Taking your time and being methodical will increase your chances of success.

Advanced techniques include using spells like Detect Magic to identify any magical traps or clues, and using the environment to your advantage. For example, if there are movable objects in the room, you can use them to block traps or create safe paths. Additionally, if you have a character with high Intelligence, they might be able to deduce the sequence more quickly based on the clues provided.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, this puzzle is a classic example of a skill challenge. It tests your problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and sometimes your characterÔÇÖs skills. In a tabletop D&D game, the Dungeon Master might call for Intelligence (Investigation) or Wisdom (Perception) checks to find clues, or Dexterity (Acrobatics) checks to avoid traps. In BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3, these mechanics are simulated through the gameÔÇÖs systems and your characterÔÇÖs stats.

Specific examples and scenarios might include finding a hidden inscription that reads ÔÇ£The path of the wise is lit by the stars,ÔÇØ suggesting that the sequence follows a celestial pattern. Another example could be a room where the statues are arranged in the shape of a constellation, and the sequence corresponds to the order of the stars in that constellation.

In conclusion, solving the Underdark puzzle in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 requires careful observation, methodical experimentation, and sometimes a bit of luck. By following the steps outlined above and keeping the tips and considerations in mind, you should be able to unlock the hidden passage and reap the rewards. Happy adventuring!