Avernus is the first layer of the Nine Hells and it matters a lot in Baldur’s Gate 3 (released August 3, 2023). I’ve played through these sections and run a few sessions that touch the same themes, so I’ll tell you what actually matters and why. This is practical advice from a player and DM who’s spent time with Karlach’s arc and the infernal mechanics. 🔥
The landscape is brutal: ash, ruined warfields, and red skies. Devils fight demons there for the Blood War, and Zariel — a fallen angel — rules parts of that conflict. That shapes encounters, enemies, and some quest choices you’ll face. Why explain that? Because the plane’s rules change how you build your party and spend resources.
Key people you’ll meet
Meet a few characters who steer the plot and choices. I’ve noticed their motives are rarely simple (there are exceptions).
| NPC | Role | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Karlach | Tiefling companion | Her engine ties her to Avernus and forces big decisions |
| Raphael | Cambion devil | Offers deals that affect later acts |
| Mizora | Infernal patron | Connected to Wyll’s storyline (watch this) |
Which of these should you trust? Hard question. I’ve found Raphael charming and dangerous. You’ll have to choose. Between us: don’t expect easy answers.
Infernal contracts and soul coins
Contracts will pop up. They must be entered willingly (D&D law), and the wording often hides the cost. Read the clauses. Seriously. Why? Because bargains change how NPCs behave toward you, and broken pacts have real penalties.
Soul coins are a literal currency made from trapped souls. In BG3 they fuel things like Karlach’s engine, buy favors, and complete quests. Mechanically they’re powerful. Morally they’re messy — and that’s the point. Controversial? Yes: sometimes spending a soul coin saves a life and still feels wrong. Other times hoarding coins is the smarter play.
// example: using a soul coin on Karlach
if (party.has("Karlach") && inventory.has("Soul Coin")) {
useItem("Soul Coin");
applyEffect("Infernal Engine Boost", 3_turns);
removeItem("Soul Coin");
}
Combat tips that actually work
Devils are tacticians. They resist fire and ignore some poisons. I’ve seen players focus too much on fire — it won’t work the way you expect against them. Instead prioritize radiant, force, and cold damage. Why? Those types bypass common devil resistances and shorten fights.
- Positioning matters: many devils fly or teleport.
- Status effects: expect charm and fear; Wisdom saves help a lot.
- Preparation: holy water, blessed weapons, and protection scrolls are useful.
Oddly enough, stealth sometimes fails because devils can see through darkness. So don’t assume invisibility is a free pass.
Where you’ll go and what to look for
BG3 doesn’t let you stroll all across Avernus like a full open world, but several scenes and places reference the plane directly — Raphael’s House of Hope, portals, and certain dream-like encounters. Keep an eye out for runes, charred corpses, and infernal graffiti; these often mark hidden items or quests (they do, honestly).
Pro tip: check corners and vertical spaces. A ruin’s top often hides a soul coin or lore book. Why climb? Because designers hide things where players don’t naturally look.
Karlach’s story — the tough choices
Karlach’s engine is a constant pressure in her personal quest. You’ll weigh fixing or powering it with soul coins, returning to Avernus, or confronting those who put her there. Each path shapes endings and companion reactions. I’ve watched players cry over their choices — and later defend them fiercely.
“Don’t rush. Read dialogue options twice. Your voice matters.” — practical advice from playtests
Here’s the funny part: using a soul coin can feel like betrayal and rescue at the same time. That contradiction is the narrative engine — and it’s intentional (yes, designers wanted you to squirm).
Short checklist
- Bring radiant/force options.
- Carry a few soul coins, but decide ahead how you’ll use them.
- Talk to companions about their pasts; it changes things.
One counterintuitive insight: delaying a deal can create better leverage later. If you sign too fast, you lose bargaining power. I’ve used that tactic in runs where I wanted more control — works often, not always.
There are debates: some players argue soul coins are overpowered; others say they’re scarce enough to balance play. Pick a stance and stick to it, or change mid-campaign (players do that). You’ll be judged either way.
Final note (yes, a short one): the Blood War is backdrop and engine. Your choices echo through people and endings, so choose with a bit of strategy and a lot of feeling. — Maris (player, DM, woman) 🎲🔥
