The Legacy of Avernus in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a compelling and complex narrative thread that reaches deep into the lore of the Forgotten Realms. Drawing directly from the events of Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus, this legacy plays a significant role in shaping the motivations of characters, the setting’s atmosphere, and the choices available to players throughout the game. It’s more than just a reference this legacy bridges infernal politics, personal redemption, and the ripple effects of past decisions into the present narrative. Understanding how the Legacy of Avernus affects your journey in BG3 is crucial to fully immersing yourself in the world and making impactful choices.
What Is the Legacy of Avernus?
A Background Rooted in Hell
The term Legacy of Avernus refers to the lingering consequences of the Blood War and mortal involvement in infernal dealings, specifically those that took place in the city of Elturel and its descent into Avernus, the first layer of the Nine Hells. In Baldur’s Gate 3, the game’s world and characters bear scars from those catastrophic events. Individuals who made pacts, fought in Avernus, or bore witness to the corruption have left their mark on Faerûn, and that legacy bleeds into the events of BG3.
Connections to Previous Events
While BG3 is not a direct sequel to Descent into Avernus, the events of that campaign influence various characters and factions in the game. The city of Baldur’s Gate itself remains shaken by its close brush with infernal destruction, and several key NPCs reference or are shaped by the aftermath. Some companions also carry infernal marks or histories that tie into Avernus, making it a thematic undercurrent that colors your journey.
Infernal Influence in BG3
Characters with Hellish Histories
Several characters in Baldur’s Gate 3 carry a personal legacy from Avernus. These include:
- Wyll: Known as the Blade of Frontiers, Wyll’s deal with the devil Mizora gives him warlock powers but traps him in a morally gray contract. His infernal patron connects directly to the events of Avernus and illustrates how temptation and legacy intertwine.
- Karlach: A powerful warrior with a heart forged in hell, Karlach escaped the clutches of Avernus after serving under Zariel. Her mechanical heart, powered by infernal energy, is a living symbol of the cost of survival in the hells.
Devils, Pacts, and Corruption
The game often presents the player with opportunities to engage in infernal contracts, tempting deals, or corrupting choices that echo the moral dilemmas found in Avernus. These deals are rarely straightforward and carry lasting consequences, highlighting the themes of power versus price, freedom versus obligation.
Thematic Importance of Avernus
Moral Complexity
One of the standout themes in Baldur’s Gate 3 is the ambiguity of right and wrong, and the Legacy of Avernus amplifies this complexity. Characters affected by infernal events are rarely evil they are often victims of circumstance, forced into deals or decisions to survive. As a player, you’re often prompted to reflect on what you would do in the same situations, blurring the line between heroism and self-preservation.
Shadows of the Blood War
The eternal conflict between demons and devils known as the Blood War plays a subtle yet critical role in BG3. The remnants of this war have spilled over into Faerûn, particularly through the actions of devils who now see the Material Plane as ripe for manipulation. The presence of infernal entities whether through warlocks’ patrons, corrupted items, or dark portals creates tension and a sense of looming threat throughout your adventure.
Gameplay Elements Connected to Avernus
Infernal Powers and Items
Legacy of Avernus content is not just narrative it also affects gameplay through items, spells, and abilities. Players can encounter:
- Infernal weapons or armor imbued with unique properties but requiring infernal allegiance or sacrifice
- Spells tied to devilish sources, including fire and domination effects
- Warlock subclass options directly linked to devil patrons
These mechanics reward players for embracing the infernal path but often come at a cost stat penalties, alignment shifts, or story consequences.
Questlines and Dialogue Choices
Throughout Baldur’s Gate 3, players will find side quests and main story beats that touch on Avernus. You may encounter survivors of the descent, cursed artifacts that speak in infernal tongues, or even opportunities to interact with devils offering powerful boons. Dialogue choices often include options to accept, reject, or manipulate infernal powers, allowing for roleplaying depth and branching paths.
Legacy in the World Around You
Cultural Aftermath
The city of Baldur’s Gate still bears the political and spiritual consequences of its brush with Avernus. Citizens are wary of magic, distrustful of outsiders, and frightened of the return of infernal influence. This sets the stage for your character’s interactions, especially if you or your companions display signs of infernal ties.
Religious Repercussions
Churches and cults play an important role in dealing with the Avernus legacy. The clergy of Lathander, Helm, and other lawful good deities try to undo the damage caused by devils, while darker factions such as the Cult of the Absolute may secretly worship or channel infernal forces. These religious dynamics often affect companion reactions and storyline developments.
Roleplaying and Narrative Impact
Alignments and Consequences
Choosing to embrace or reject the infernal aspects of the Legacy of Avernus can dramatically impact your alignment, companion approval, and story progression. For example:
- Wyll may grow closer or distance himself from you based on how you treat infernal powers
- Karlach may share more of her past or feel betrayed depending on your actions
- The outcome of major quests may shift toward salvation or damnation based on your choices
Replayability and Multiple Endings
Because infernal influence is a recurring motif in the game, each playthrough can explore a different approach to dealing with the Legacy of Avernus. Whether you walk the path of redemption, fully embrace the power of the hells, or attempt to walk a careful line, your choices will shape your story and the fate of the world around you.
The Legacy of Avernus in Baldur’s Gate 3 is more than just a background detail it’s a living, breathing force that shapes your character’s journey, relationships, and decisions. With roots in rich Dungeons & Dragons lore and far-reaching consequences throughout the game, this legacy challenges players to confront temptation, power, and morality in a world teetering on the edge of damnation. Whether you see it as a curse or an opportunity, the influence of Avernus will follow you if not in body, then in spirit.