Should you Take Raphael’s Deal in BG3? Choices and Outcomes

Baldur's Gate 3 has a rich narrative and plenty of decisions to make, one of which sees you making a deal with the devil Raphael to rid yourself of the Illthid parasite. As enticing as the offer may seem, it's best to know all your options and their outcomes while dealing with the devil. So, if you are about to meet him or you aren't sure about your next steps, here's what you need to know.

Where to Find Raphael in BG3 (Location)

After reaching Wyrm's Rock in Act 3, you will start with the Rivington waypoint. Travel north from here to discover and activate the South span of Wrym's Crossing. Raphael will be waiting on the upper floor of Sharess' Caress (X: 24 Y: 80) building located north of the South Span of Wyrm's crossing waypoint.

Related: BG3 – How to Cure the Shadow Curse

What is Raphael's Deal in BG3?

Raphael will entice your character by offering a cure for the Illthid parasite. If you sign the contract, he'll keep his word and give you the Orphic Hammer. The devil's deal isn't ever so simple, though; signing it means you'll have to do something for him in return. In this case, that means finding the Crown of Karsus that controls the Elder Brain.

It is up to you whether you want to take Raphael's deal or not, but it will remain available later if you change your mind. There are advantages and disadvantages to taking Raphael's deal, and we have outlined both choices below. You can always have multiple game saves to explore both choices.

What Happens if you Take Raphael's Deal in BG3?

If you take Raphael's deal, you will be given the Orphic Hammer which can be used to save Orpheus —the Githiyanki Prince trapped in the Astral Plane. However, you will face disapproval from your party members like Karlach. If you wish to get out of the deal, there is a loophole which will require visiting the House of Hope.

I suggest not taking the deal, but if you do, betray Raphael as you can get a ton of good loot from this boss and from the House of Hope.

Related: BG3 – How to save the Tieflings & Wulbren in Baldur’s Gate 3

What Happens if you Don't Take Raphael's Deal in BG3?

If you refuse to take Raphael's deal, you will not get the cure or the hammer. However, there is a method to obtain the Orphic Hammer from the House of Hope.

The House of Hope is the place where Raphael has kept Hope as a prisoner. You can release her by going to this location (which can be accessed through a portal that requires a ritual to open). Once you enter the house, take a right to find Hope in a room. Upon releasing her, she will give you the Gloves of Soul Catching as a reward.

Enter the Archives Room located on the left-hand side from the entrance area, where you will find the Orphic Hammer sealed with a magic spell. However, if you signed the deal, you will already have the hammer and will find your contract instead. Additionally, you will find other vital objects such as the Amulet of Greater Health, and Gauntlet of Hill Giant Strength in the same room.

What Happens if you Betray Raphael in BG3?

Once you have signed Raphael's deal, he expects you to do his bidding, but if you betray him it's a different story altogether. Regardless of the deal, if you go to the House of Hope, find the contract, and release Hope, he will appear for a fight before you can exit the location.

Raphael appears with Yurgir — another foe you might have encountered at the Gauntlet of Shar — at this location, the latter of which will fight for your party if you betray the devil. Raphael is a difficult boss to beat, but you will have Hope to help out in the fight as well. After he's defeated, you can collect the Helldusk Armor (Legendary) as a reward.

To find more on Baldur's Gate 3, check out BG3 Illithid Powers Guide – Baldur’s Gate 3 on Pro Game Guides.