How Many Acts in Baldur's Gate 3?

Curious about Baldur's Gate 3's structure? Discover what awaits you in each of the game's three acts, from the Wilderness to the Shadow-Cursed Lands and Baldur's Gate itself.

Baldur's Gate 3 is broken down into three main acts, and each one is absolutely massive. If you're the type of player who likes to explore every nook and cranny, do every side quest, and see all the dialogue options, you're looking at around 40+ hours of gameplay for *each* act. And if you're a big fan of save-scumming to see every possible outcome? Well, buckle up, because you'll be spending even more time in each section!

As a general rule of thumb, the developers recommend aiming to hit around level 5 by the time you're ready to move from Act 1 into Act 2. Thankfully, Act 1 is packed with opportunities to level up.

Act 1

Your journey begins in the Wilderness, a vast area where you'll have the chance to recruit a bunch of memorable NPCs, including fan favorites like Minthara, Gale, and Astarion. While you're exploring, make sure to tackle some of the many side quests available. Keep an eye out for quests like "Whispering Depths," "Find the Missing Shipment," and "The Hag." Once you've wrapped up the optional content, it's time to shift your focus to the main questline. This involves clearing out the Goblin Camp and solving the puzzles within the Defiled Temple. After you've dealt with the Goblin Camp, you'll find yourself venturing into the Underdark. Here, your primary objective is to track down the Grymforge Boss. But don't rush off just yet! There are still plenty of optional activities to dive into, such as exploring the Arcane Tower, finding the Mushroom Picker, and completing the "Investigate the Parasite" quest.

Act 2

Upon arriving in the Shadow-Cursed Lands, you'll encounter more potential companions, including Jaheira. This act is brimming with a substantial amount of optional content for you to enjoy. Don't miss out on quests like the Reithwin Toll House, "Hide and Seek," "Rescue the Tieflings," and assisting "He Who Was." After you've completed these side activities, it's time to concentrate on the main quest. This will involve navigating the challenges of the Gauntlet of Shar, making the crucial decision to Save the Nightsong, and ultimately confronting and defeating Ketheric Thorm.

Act 3

Act 3 marks the final chapter of your Baldur's Gate 3 adventure, and it takes place in the sprawling city of Baldur's Gate itself. You'll find that this act offers even more main and side content than the previous two combined. Among the many optional quests and activities available, you'll want to investigate the murders plaguing the city, find all of Dribbles the Clown's body parts, solve the various Chamber Puzzles, and work to "Free The Artist."