With Baldur's Gate 3 finally achieving its full release, players are eagerly seeking methods to progress to Act 2, which was previously inaccessible. In contrast to games that employ a distinct division between Acts, Baldur's Gate 3 seamlessly transitions from Act 1 to Act 2 without a separate confirmation screen.
During the Early Access phase, developers restricted players from accessing areas beyond the boundaries of the first Act. Now that the game is fully available, there are two routes to venture into Act 2 of BG3: traversing the secure Mountain Pass or braving the formidable Underdark.
Method Two: An Elevator Deep In The Underdark
In order to reach Act 2, it is advisable for all members of the party to be at Level 5. This is because the enemies in the Act 2 map pose more challenges, regardless of the chosen method to progress. By naturally advancing through Act 1 and completing a few major quests along the way to either of the entrances leading to Act 2, players will effortlessly reach Level 5.Method Two: An Elevator Deep In The Underdark
To access the map for Act 2, the quickest route is via a transition point located in the far northwest of the initial Act 1 zone. Depart from Waukeen's Rest and head west until you come across a Githyanki Patrol. You can either utilize Lae'zel (or a Githyanki custom player character) to persuade them to allow the party to pass, or be prepared to engage in combat with the patrol – which is no easy feat.
After surpassing this obstacle and ensuring the departure of the Githyanki Patrol, proceed westward in search of the map's boundary and the Mountain Pass. Engage with The Mountain Pass, affirm your intention to transition to the new map, and patiently wait for the Act 2 map to load.
By following this path to Act 2, players will ultimately arrive at the Rosymorn Monastery Trail, encountering a pack of Ghouls and their leaders.
Method Two: An Elevator Deep In The Underdark
The route through the Underdark, although more tedious, is relatively safer for non-Githyanki races. In Act 1, there are several entrances to the Underdark, such as the bottom of the Hag's lair and the Phase Spider Matriarch's cave, the temple of Selune puzzle in the Goblin Camp, and a hidden elevator beneath the Zhentarim Hideout.
Once you have reached the Underdark, it is important to be prepared to navigate through various environmental hazards and keep a finger ready to quickly save in case any unexpected events occur. Use the boat found on the Underdark Beach, located in the center of the zone, to make your way to Grymforge. In this area, you will encounter a wide variety of quests and stories, eventually leading you to an elevator that takes you to the map for Act 2 – an area plagued by a mysterious curse.
Baldur's Gate 3 is available for PC, and is set to release on PlayStation 5 on September 6, 2023.