Baldur's Gate 3 is an RPG that allows you to approach practically every scenario differently and to your preference. When it comes to the Mountain Pass and the Underdark, both these paths offer very different challenges, and you must decide which set you wish to face. Fortunately, I've ventured through all the Underdark and most of the Mountain Pass, and I can give you a solid recommendation.
BG3 - Mountain Pass or Underdark
I recommend going through the Underdark, especially on your first Baldur's Gate 3 playthrough, as it offers a more expansive and interesting story on its own when compared to the Mountain Pass. It also provides a significant boost to experience due to the sheer hostility of the place; you'll be fighting many different enemies within, including classics like Drow and Gray Dwarves. More experience means high levels, so you'll be far more prepared to face the much stronger enemies of Act II.
However, if you're looking for a much faster route to reach the beginning of Act 2, the Mountain Pass is the clear winner. It is also easier to progress through than the Underdark, meaning your trek through it is much less painful. Be warned though: if you choose to go through the Mountain Pass, you'll be missing out on plenty of experience, so I do not recommend it.
How to Reach the Underdark in BG3
The fastest way to reach the Underdark is through the Goblin Camp:
Whether you've decided to side with the goblins or kill them all, their camp houses a secret entrance into The Underdark from the main stronghold interior. Head inside, and look for a door on the western side of the stronghold (as seen below).
If you're hostile to the goblins, kill the ogre inside and follow the path around. You'll reach a room with a simple puzzle in it, and see four disks located in the center of the room:
These disks must be positioned in the correct order to open the hidden stone door behind them. The solution to the puzzle is as follows:
- Turn the southern disk three times
- Turn the western disk one time
- Turn the southern disk one time
- Turn the northern disk one time
- Turn the western disk three times
- Turn the eastern disk three times
Related: BG3 Find the Nightsong Quest Guide – The Underdark, Myconids, and Duergar
You can completely bypass the puzzle as I did if you have a party member with Lockpicking and Perception. There is a small lever located on the right of the stone door, but it can only be found with a Perception check:
Win the check, then use Sleight of Hand to pull the lever, opening the door. From this point, it is smooth sailing. Pass through the opened stone door, and follow the path leading to a lone ladder, which will serve as your entry point into the Underdark.
For more quality guides and helpful information relating to all things Baldur's Gate 3, check out What to Expect From Doing The Dark Urge in Baldur’s Gate 3 and keep an eye on Pro Game Guides.com.
