In the vast and enchanting world of Baldur’s Gate 3, players are invited to explore the rich tapestry of the Forgotten Realms, a land steeped in magic, mystery, and ancient lore. This guide delves into the intricate geography and pivotal locations that define this iconic universe, from the bustling streets of Baldur’s Gate itself to the treacherous depths of the Underdark. As adventurers embark on their journey, they will encounter a myriad of factions, formidable foes, and hidden secrets that promise to shape their fate. Prepare to uncover the legends that have captivated gamers for decades and discover what awaits in this thrilling continuation of a beloved saga.
On this page of our guide to Baldur’s Gate 3 you can read about the land in which this role-playing game takes place, about the major cities and locations that we have seen in previous Dungeons & Dragons installments and the world of Forgotten Realms depicted in the Baldur’s Gate series. We will take a closer look at some of the most important geographical regions and cities available in this fantasy world. The plot of the first part is corresponding to the titular city, while Baldur’s Gate 2 takes players to the neighbouring city of Amn. Part three goes back to its roots, but we won’t immediately land in the most important metropolis of the Sword Coast.
The world of Forgotten Realms is vast, consisting of many states, principalities and even underground cities or mazes. It’s a place full of magic, filled with amazing things and ancient creatures. Entire manuals for subsequent editions of Dungeons & Dragons have been dedicated to describe this world. That’s why prefer to focus on some of the key realms we’ve visited in the Baldur’s Gate series and other Black Isle and Bioware RPGs (Icewind Dale, Neverwinter Nights). Some of them are likely to return in Baldur’s Gate 3, so it’s worth being prepared for the trip.
Sword Coast
The Sword Coast is a prominent region within the expansive world of Faerûn, serving as the backdrop for much of the action in Baldur’s Gate 3. This coastal area is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from bustling cities like Baldur’s Gate to treacherous wilderness filled with mythical creatures and ancient ruins. Players begin their journey near the iconic city of Baldur’s Gate, navigating through various locations that highlight the rich lore and history of the Sword Coast. The region is characterized by its intricate river systems, such as the Chionthar River, which plays a crucial role in connecting different areas and influencing trade and travel throughout the land. As adventurers explore this vibrant setting, they encounter a myriad of characters and quests that deepen their connection to the lore of Dungeons & Dragons.
The Sword Coast, which we first encountered in Baldur’s Gate, is the western land of Faerun that has access to the Sea of Swords. This land is full of forests. There are many ruins, abandoned villages and mysterious places to explore. The trails and paths of this natural landscape aren’t among the safest as they may be occupied by wild animals, bandits, hobgoblins, gnolls, kobolds or orcs. These creatures are perfect opportunity for a novice adventurer to sharpen a new sword. However, they may pose a real threat if you encounter them in groups. Despite some crises, the region was famous for its rich iron deposits and developed marketplaces. In the northern part of the Sword Coast you will find the city of Waterdeep and the southern part of Sword Coast borders with Amn.
Baldur’s Gate – major city
It’s the main headquarters of authorities of the Sword Coast. The most important parties and factions of the country (including illegal ones such as the Thieves Guild) have their headquarters here. The same goes with trading guilds, mage guilds and, of course, The Flaming Fist – an organization controlled by the princes who govern the city and have great impact on the Sword Coast region. You will find a harbour, various temples and a Mage Tower (or even two towers), warehouses and factories. Legends also mention that there is an ancient underworld beneath the city, which is connected with its history and mysteries.
Important cities and locations of the region
- Nashkell – a town near an iron mine which offers a pretty good inn and a temple. Every year a great fair takes place here. It’s generally a pleasant place to be if you can turn a blind eye to occasional problems with the raw material and troublesome kobolds.
- Beregost – a magnificent town located on the trail leading south of the Sword Coast. For exhausted wanderers the town offers excellent taverns, inns and a renowned blacksmith who can forge pieces of armor from any material.
- The Friendly Arm Inn – a fortified inn, a safe haven and a signpost for those who got lost or are tired of traveling and need to rest. Adventurers can find shelter, a bed and lots of beverages behind the safe walls of this place. It’s one of the first locations we visit in Baldur’s Gate.
- Candlekeep – located in the western part of the country, turned into a fortress from a library, stores huge collections of knowledge from all over the world. There are legends that beneath the fortress there are some dungeons which hide a secret. In the first Baldur’s Gate it’s the home of the main character, from which he and his foster father have embarked on a journey.
Amn
Amn is a vibrant and perilous region in the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, known for its rich tapestry of merchant culture and political intrigue. Bordered by the Sword Coast to the north and Tethyr to the south, this land is characterized by picturesque cities, elven forests, and ancient ruins that invite exploration. However, adventurers must tread carefully, as Amn is also home to dangerous factions and treacherous landscapes where every decision can have dire consequences. The region’s history is steeped in mystery, making it a compelling destination for those brave enough to uncover its secrets while navigating its complex web of alliances and rivalries.
Land of merchants and traders, bordered to the north by the Sword Coast, to the south by Tethyr, to the west by Sea of Swords and to the east by the Shinning Plains. For those who are brave it’s a place of great possibilities, and for the careless – a nest of vipers, where every step may be dangerous or even lethal. Adventurers will find picturesque cities and towns in this region, elven forests and metropolises, as well as mysterious ruins, tombs and ancient temples. This land is full of mysteries and unique factions. We can visit Amn in Baldur’s Gate 2 Shadows of Amn.
Athkatla – the capital
It’s not without a reason that people call Athkatla the ‘city of money’. It’s a rich metropolis, with dozens of politicians, adventurers, merchants, noble citizens and other sort of individuals. You may even come across visitors from other dimensions. High stakes games take place here, thousands of gold pieces fly from hand to hand, and every district hides a secret. Somewhere in the shadow of beautiful palaces, slave trafficking is being carried out. To make things worse, in the city dungeons we may encounter a mad cult, where a sadistic soul-less mage is conducting his terrifying experiments. But on the surface, there’s also plenty of things to watch or admire. The rich citizens have grand mansions, churches of various gods reach the sky, and merchants gather up to trade on the magnificent Waukeen Promenade. After all, the hero of Baldur’s Gate 2 takes his first steps there.
Important cities and locations
- Imnesvale – a village situated in the Umar Hills. Theoretically inconspicuous. In reality – it is located in a beautiful area, but a dark legend is connected with this place. Also, there is an ancient temple nearby that should be explored.
- Trademeet – overwhelmingly rich town of merchants that even genies like to visit. You’d think it could be an idyllic place. Only if there wasn’t any everlasting conflict between two of the most powerful families. And some occasional trouble with the residents of the nearby druid grove.
- Suldanesselar – an elven city hidden in the forests of Tethyr. Built in the crowns of trees, the beautiful metropolis also protects one of the pillars of elven existence – The Tree of Life. A descendant of Bhaal fought one of his most important battles there.
- Brynnlaw – a harbour-town located on the island where pirates, smugglers and other bandits reign. They are allowed to rule this place only because they are a great cover up for the castle that dominates the island. It’s being said that the castle has been turned into a shelter for rebellious mages.
Underdark
The Underdark in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a vast, subterranean realm filled with treacherous paths and dark secrets. Located beneath the Blighted Village, it serves as a crucial area for players to explore during Act One. Various entrances lead into this dangerous expanse, including the Defiled Temple and hidden passages within the Goblin Camp. The Underdark is home to a myriad of creatures, from hostile Drow to deadly wildlife, and is rich in unique alchemical ingredients and quests. Players must navigate its intricate tunnels and face formidable foes while uncovering the mysteries that lie beneath the surface.
The darkness can be vibrant too. It can be filled with quite different forms of life than the ones we know from the surface of Faerun. Often more cruel creatures reside this place, but they also have consciousness.
Underdark is a place where many beings took refuge, such as: the warrior race of Githyanki, the multi-eyed observers and tyrannical Mind Flyers (we will find out more about them in Baldur’s Gate 3, but they already caused a lot of pain in Baldur’s Gate 2), the duegars (Underdark dwarves) and finally the drows – the dark elves that can be considered, at least to some extent, as the main residents of this place.
In a nutshell, Underdark is an underground network of tunnel-connected caves and subterranean structures stretching virtually under the whole region of Faerun. All aforementioned creatures have decided to reside here. And many more. There are many passageways (caves, portals) that can be used to enter the Underdark. But you do it at your own risk. We have been visiting Underdark in many games set in the Forgotten Realms universe, namely: Baldur’s Gate Siege of Dragonspear, Baldur’s Gate 2, Neverwinter Nights, and Icewind Dale 2.
Related cities and lands which were mentioned in Baldur’s Gate:
- Neverwinter – a town located on the north of Swords Coast. Some consider it the most civilized and multicultural place in all of Faerun. The problems of this town were mentioned in Baldur’s Gate 2, and we had an opportunity to visit it in the NeverwinterNights series and also in the Neverwinter MMO game.
- Waterdeep – the city of splendour, also known as the Crown of the North. Once the most important city of the Sword Coast, it lost this noble status due to the importance of Baldur’s Gate. However, it still remains an important center of civilization in the region. Players were able to visit it in the Neverwinter Nights Hordes of the Underdark.
- Icewind Dale – arctic region, an ice-capped and snow-covered mountainous land of The North. Even despite the fact that it’s hostile to human beings, people have decided to settle there and constructed the Ten Towns. We visited the Icewind Dale location in two installments of the Icewind Dale series, which is related to Baldur’s Gate. Interestingly, the artifacts belonging to several of the characters of Icewind Dale can be purchased in Baldur’s Gate 2.
What are the most iconic locations in the Baldur’s Gate 3 universe
Baldur’s Gate 3 features a multitude of iconic locations that immerse players in its rich narrative and vibrant world. Here are some of the most notable sites:
1. Baldur’s Gate City
The heart of the game, Baldur’s Gate City, serves as a bustling hub filled with quests, characters, and lore. Its intricate architecture and lively streets reflect the city’s significance in the Forgotten Realms, making it essential for any adventurer’s journey.
2. Grymforge
Located in the Underdark, Grymforge is a visually stunning area known for its legendary Adamantine Forge. Once a site of worship for The Lady of Loss, it now operates under The Absolute’s control, offering players a blend of beauty and danger as they navigate its lava-filled landscapes.
3. Moonrise Towers
This towering structure serves as a command center for The Absolute and is steeped in mystery. Its imposing design and dark history make it a pivotal location in Act 2, where players confront significant plot developments.
4. Emerald Grove
A serene sanctuary inhabited by druids and tieflings, Emerald Grove is characterized by its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. This location is not only beautiful but also crucial for early game quests, highlighting the importance of nature in the game’s narrative.
5. Wyrm’s Crossing
As the primary land entrance to Baldur’s Gate, Wyrm’s Crossing features breathtaking views of the River Chionthar. Its grand stone arches and strategic layout make it a landmark that connects players to the larger world beyond.
6. The Astral Plane
A unique and otherworldly setting accessed throughout the game, the Astral Plane captivates with its cosmic visuals and eerie atmosphere. It serves as a backdrop for key encounters with the Dream Guardian, adding depth to the game’s mystical elements.
These locations not only enhance gameplay but also enrich the storytelling experience, inviting players to explore the intricate lore of the Baldur’s Gate 3 universe.
What makes the Grymforge such a unique location in Baldur’s Gate 3
Grymforge stands out as a unique location in Baldur’s Gate 3 for several compelling reasons:
1. Legendary Adamantine Forge
At the heart of Grymforge lies the Adamantine Forge, a mythical site capable of crafting exceptional weapons and armor from rare materials like mithral. This forge is not only central to various quests but also symbolizes the pinnacle of craftsmanship in the game, attracting players eager to enhance their gear.
2. Rich Lore and History
Originally built by worshippers of Shar, Grymforge has a deep and complex history. It was abandoned for centuries before being repurposed by the forces of The Absolute, who now exploit enslaved Deep Gnomes for labor. This transformation from a sacred site to a stronghold of oppression adds layers to its narrative, enriching player engagement with the lore.
3. Stunning Visuals and Design
The visual aesthetics of Grymforge are striking, featuring an otherworldly landscape filled with rivers of lava and intricate stonework. The juxtaposition of its fiery elements and ancient architecture creates a breathtaking environment that enhances exploration and discovery.
4. Diverse Challenges and Enemies
Grymforge offers players a variety of challenges, including formidable enemies like Duergar mercenaries and elemental creatures. The area is designed for adventurers around Level 5, providing a balanced mix of combat and exploration that tests players’ strategic skills.
5. Accessibility through the Underdark
Reaching Grymforge involves navigating the treacherous Underdark, adding an element of adventure to the journey. Players must solve environmental puzzles and engage in encounters that set the stage for their arrival at this iconic forge.
These elements combine to make Grymforge not just a location but an integral part of the Baldur’s Gate 3 experience, offering players both visual splendor and rich storytelling opportunities.
