Overview
Act 1 is dense. This route:
- Picks up all main **companions**
- Hits strong early **gear and spells**
- Minimizes soft-locking later questlines
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Phase 1 – Crash Beach & Roadside Cliffs
1. Free Shadowheart (if desired) from the pod or beach.
2. Explore the ruined chapel carefully:
- Learn verticality and shove mechanics.
- Grab scrolls and basic gear.
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Phase 2 – Druid Grove & Goblin Camp Setup
1. Reach the Emerald Grove, meet:
- Wyll
- Gale
2. Avoid making irreversible decisions with the tieflings just yet.
3. Scout the Goblin Camp:
- Pick up **Lae'zel** if missing.
- Learn the layout for future assault or diplomacy.
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Phase 3 – Underdark or Mountain Pass?
Both are valid, but for beginners:
- Finish more **Overworld** content first:
- Blighted Village
- Whispering Depths
- Owlbear cave
These spots hide powerful items and fun little stories.
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Phase 4 – Early Power Spikes
- Secure:
- At least one +1 weapon
- A decent armor set for frontliners
- A few control spells (Hold Person, Sleep early, etc.)
- Experiment with:
- Shoves off ledges
- Environmental surfaces (grease, fire, ice)
This approach keeps Act 1 feeling open while still giving you a backbone of structure.