Baldur’s Gate 3: How to Lift the Shadow Curse in BG3

Don't let the frustrating curse damage your party.

By GamesRecon

In Baldur’s Gate 3, the Shadow Cursed Lands are the eerie zones that are surrounded by the effect of the deadly Shadow Curse and it’s not for the faint of heart. Imagine you’re wandering through, off the beaten path, and suddenly, your health starts dropping faster than a stone in water – it’s that intense.

But not everyone’s a victim here. Take Shadowheart, for instance; thanks to her devotion to Shar, she can pass through the darkness unscathed. But you and your all other BG3 companions are not so lucky. That’s why figuring out how to lift the Shadow Curse in BG3—or at least how to sidestep its gnarly effects—is crucial for anyone brave (or crazy) enough to travel through these lands.

So, whether you’re here to remove the curse from your group or simply looking to sneak by without getting drained, this guide has got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about facing down the Shadow Curse in Baldur’s Gate 3.

How to Remove the Shadow Curse in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)

Remove the Shadow Curse BG3

If you’re looking to lift this pesky curse permanently, it involves a series of steps. First, you’ll need to recruit Halsin, this guy is crucial for the task at hand. You’ll find him after you’ve saved the Emerald Grove from the Goblin Camp and invited him to your camp. Once you’ve got Halsin on your side, make your way to Act 2 and stop by the Last Light Inn. There, you’ll find an NPC in a coma with a note on the bed that’ll lead you to the next steps.

Now, before you can lift the curse, you’ll need some protection against it. There are a few ways to do this, but snagging a Moon Lantern from Moonrise Towers is a solid choice. Alternatively, you can join the Harper Patrol at the Last Light Inn and get into a bit of a scuffle with a Drider. With Halsin recruited and your protection sorted, you’re ready to tackle the curse. Head over to a strange house east of the Shadowed Battlefield waypoint. There, you’ll meet a spirit who’s got a quest for you. It involves a game of hide-and-seek, some Shadow Parents, and a bit of combat.

Post-defeat, communicate with Halsin regarding Oliver and guide Oliver to return to Thaniel. This action leads to a crucial battle north of Moonrise Towers, where defeating Oliver’s summons is imperative for breaking his protective shield and ultimately lifting the curse. Remember, while the land might not look much cheerier, it’ll be free from that eternal darkness, and that’s a win in my book.

Should You Free the Pixie or Keep the Moon Lantern in Baldur’s Gate 3?

Once you get the nifty Moon Lanterns – your lifeline against the Shadow Curse, you will come to know that a Pixie is trapped inside each one. She’s offering you a deal: let her out and she’ll give you something called the Pixie’s Blessing. This blessing is like the VIP pass of the Shadow Cursed Lands. It makes you protected from the effects of the curse, which is pretty handy if you ask me.

Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t the lantern itself useful?” Absolutely. It’s great for revealing those sneaky Wraiths and Shadows lurking about. But the Pixie’s Blessing applies to your whole party. That means you can all go through the deadly cursed areas without a care in the world. This revelation isn’t just a footnote in your adventure; it’s a crossroads, a decision point that asks, “What kind of hero are you?” Freeing the Pixie isn’t just about opening a lantern and letting a creature out. It’s a choice that reflects on your values and your character’s narrative in this sprawling fantasy epic.

On one hand, keeping the Pixie trapped means you get to hold onto this incredibly effective tool against the curse. It’s practical, sure, but it’s also a bit cold-hearted. On the other hand, deciding to free the Pixie is a gesture of kindness, a stand against imprisonment, and for the freedom of another being. Plus, it’s not without its rewards. The Pixie, grateful for your compassion, blesses you with a permanent status effect that shields you from the curse. So, what will it be? Honestly, if you ask me, setting the Pixie free is the way to go.

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