How to defeat the rats in Shar's Gauntlet in Baldur's Gate 3

Welcome to our friendly guide on how to defeat the rats in Shar's Gauntlet in Baldur's Gate 3! This hidden area is packed with secrets and offers opportunities for companion quests and peaceful resolutions. However, before you can uncover these hidden treasures, you'll have to face an overwhelming swarm of rats. But don't worry, we've got you covered with some helpful strategies to ensure your success.

Discovering Shar's Temple:

As you enter Shar's Gauntlet, you'll find yourself in a mysterious temple dedicated to the goddess Shar. Take some time to explore the area and soak in the atmosphere. One of the standout features is the massive statue of Shar, adorned with bones and skulls at its base. This serves as a chilling reminder of the power the goddess holds in this realm.

Dealing with the Rat Swarm:

Once you've had a chance to observe the surroundings, it's time to face the rat swarm. To initiate combat, you'll need to lower the cragged rock that serves as a barrier. As you do so, be prepared for a wave of rats to come rushing towards your party. These rats can be quite overwhelming, so it's important to have a solid plan in place.

Shadowheart's Quest and Spirit Guardians:

One of the key aspects of this encounter is Shadowheart's quest, which is closely tied to Shar's temple. To protect Shadowheart and keep the rats at bay, it's recommended to activate the Spirit Guardians spell. This powerful spell creates a protective aura around the caster, damaging any enemies that come too close. By utilizing this spell effectively, you can ensure the safety of your party and successfully complete Shadowheart's quest.

Countering the Rat Abilities:

The rats in Shar's Gauntlet possess a unique ability to put anything within their radius to sleep. This can be quite problematic if your party members fall asleep, leaving you vulnerable to further attacks. To counter this ability, it's advisable to use ranged spells or weapons to deplete their numbers from a safe distance. By keeping your distance, you can minimize the risk of being put to sleep and maintain control over the battle.

Confronting Dark Justiciar:

After defeating the swarm of rats, you'll face another formidable opponent - the Dark Justiciar. This disgruntled individual will appear and attack you out of annoyance. It's important to be well-prepared for this encounter, as the Dark Justiciar can pose a significant threat. Utilize your party's abilities and tactics to defeat him and emerge victorious.

Choosing Your Actions Wisely:

Once the Dark Justiciar has been dealt with, you'll have a crucial decision to make. If you decide not to kill the demon, Astarion will express his discontent. This choice has implications for Astarion's storyline and character development. Additionally, it's worth noting that Astarion cannot make a deal with Raphael, who previously cheated the Orthon with a contract. Consider the consequences of your actions and choose wisely.

Armed with these friendly guidelines, you are now ready to take on the challenge of defeating the rats in Shar's Gauntlet in Baldur's Gate 3. Remember to use ranged attacks to counter the rats' sleep ability, activate the Spirit Guardians spell to protect Shadowheart, and be prepared for the appearance of the Dark Justiciar. Good luck on your adventure, and may your journey be filled with triumph and discovery!