Tech

Baldur’s Gate 3 – House Of Grief And Sharran Lookout Guide

Published

1 year ago

August 10, 2023

Shadowheart’s quest, Daughter of Darkness, will soon conclude during the third act of Baldur’s Gate 3. This time, you need to learn about what led to her worship of Shar, and if there’s anything you can do about it. Our guide discusses the Baldur’s Gate 3 House of Grief and Sharran Lookout objectives, as well as the decisions that you need to make. Likewise, please be aware that this article contains spoilers.

Table of Contents [hide]

How to Complete Sharran Lookout and House of Grief in Baldur’s Gate 3

The Baldur’s Gate 3 House of Grief and Sharran Lookout objectives are part of the game’s third act. But, before you get to that segment, here’s a brief recounting of the choices we made in our campaign:

We romanced Shadowheart for the entirety of the campaign. However, you should still get her questline even if you’re in a relationship with a different companion. Just make sure that she remains alive in your party to avoid mishaps.
In Act 2, we convinced Shadowheart to spare Nightsong. That caused her to reject Shar.
Shadowheart learns that, as a child, she would’ve been a Selunite novice. Unfortunately, she was kidnapped by Sharran disciples. Moreover, it’s revealed that her parents are still alive.

Where to Find the Sharran Lookout

Your next objective in the Daughter of Darkness quest is to find the Baldur’s Gate 3 Sharran Lookout. In the village of Rivington, head to the right of the waypoint. There, you’ll meet a fella by the name of Ferg Dogher (X:45; Y:-102). You can let Shadowheart handle the conversation here, and you’ll learn that her parents are imprisoned in the House of Grief.

Ferg is chilling in Rivington.

Where to Find the House of Grief

The Baldur’s Gate 3 House of Grief is in northwestern edge of the Lower City (X:-246; Y:-9). We suggest recruiting Jaheira and Minsc, if possible, before heading to this place.

Once inside, you’ll want Shadowheart to sit on the granite bench, which leads to a cutscene involving the enclave’s Mother Superior. Let her handle the dialogue here. Alternatively, if your character sits on the bench, you’ll be asked several questions. Still, for storyline purposes, it’s better to let Shadowheart take the lead in this part. She’ll also get the Rites of Loss Inspiration point.

You’ll find out that the Mother Superior is none other than Viconia DeVir. Fans of the series will remember her as one of the companions from the previous games. As an evil-aligned Drow, Viconia has forsaken Lolth and now serves Shar. As such, if Jaheira and Minsc are with you, they’ll have additional banter during the cutscene.

Gallery

Left: The House of Grief’s location; Right: Jaheira and Minsc won’t be too pleased when they get reunited with Viconia.

Dilemma: Save Shadowheart or Give Her to the Mother Superior

In the inner sanctum of the Baldur’s Gate 3 House of Grief, you’re given an ultimatum: do you defend Shadowheart, or do you hand her over to the Sharran cultists?

Defend Shadowheart – This leads to a battle against Viconia and over a dozen disciples. We discuss this shortly.

Surrender Shadowheart – Viconia will be pleased. She promises the aid of Lady Shar’s faithful as part of the Gather Your Allies tally.

Come on, are you really going to give up Shadowheart at this stage of the game?

Boss Fight: Mother Superior and Shar’s Disciples

Because Shadowheart is the best girl, we’re never gonna give her up, and we’re never gonna let her down–even though she did turn around and desert Shar. Best be prepared for this bout, since Viconia is tough:

Shadowheart will be afflicted with Wayward Heart, which causes her to get critically hit by all of Viconia’s attacks, while having a disadvantage against Wisdom saving throws. It seems that this dissipates upon doing a long rest.
Viconia transforms into a wolf, so she’ll have her base HP once you’ve taken out her polymorphed form.
Viconia heals a lot of HP if she uses Nightbringer’s Beloved. Moreover, her Radiant Retort passive causes her to blast her attacker with double the radiant damage that they deal. That’s why we suggest having Shadowheart respec into the Tempest Domain in our Cleric build guide. That way, you can make use of thunder and lightning spells.
As a last resort, Viconia can take out several characters with Divine Intervention: Sunder the Heretical. Of course, you can also cast this given that Shadowheart’s level is high enough at this stage. But, this spell can only be used once.
If those aren’t enough, the other cultists will happily cast Darkness. This is followed by Beckoning Darkness and Call of the Dark Lady, both of which proc necrotic damage when a character is in an obscured or dimly-lit spot.

Needless to say, you’ve got your work cut out for you. Ideally, you’ll want to go all-out with AoE spells, such as Cloudkill, Destructive Wave, Ice Storm, and the like. Likewise, there are high-tier Illithid Powers, like Black Hole, that can be used to gain an advantage. You can also try to reposition your party members individually before the fight so you can whittle down the enemy forces.

Use every AoE at your disposal, because Shar’s followers won’t take it easy on you.

Dilemma: Should You Spare or Kill the Mother Superior

After the Baldur’s Gate 3 Viconia fight, you’ve got another decision to make: spare Viconia or kill her? If you ask Shadowheart, she won’t care either way, so the choice is up to you.

Kill Viconia – Minsc will approve of this, and you can loot her for various goodies:

Viconia’s Walking Fortress (legendary shield) – +3 AC; when hit with a melee attack, use a reaction to deal 2-8 force damage and knock your enemy prone; advantage on saving throws against spells; spell attack rolls against you have disadvantage; Reflective Shell action; Warding Bond spell.
Viconia’s Priestess Robe – +10 AC; while obscured, gain advantage on Stealth checks; Shield of Faith gives a +2 bonus to saving throws; +1 AC.
Handmaiden’s Mace – 9-21 bludgeoning and poison damage; +2 weapon enchantment; increases your Strength to 18.
Viconia’s Personal Chest Key
Inspiration: Knives in the Dark (Soldier) – This requires you to survive the battle against Shar’s cultists. For some reason, you won’t get this at all if you spare Viconia, even though you won the fight.

Spare Viconia – Jaheira will approve of this. Viconia limps away, and we never saw her again.

When you’re done, make sure to loot all the corpses in the chamber. You’ll also want to grab the Silver Key. Likewise, if you check one of the side rooms in the main chamber, you’ll meet a priestess named Nocturne. She and Shadowheart used to be pals. Make sure you purchase some items from her, as she’ll disappear after you do a long rest. Additionally, you’ll find the Counting House Vault 8 Key from the small chest in the dormitory. You can use it once you return to the Counting House.

Shadowheart doesn’t really care about what happens to Viconia after the battle.

Dilemma: What to Do with Shadowheart’s Parents

The next thing you need to do in the Baldur’s Gate 3 House of Grief is find Shadowheart’s parents. Pick up the Black Diamond in front of the altar, and you’ll see a plate that gets raised. Interact with it, and unlock the door using the Silver Key.

In the inner sanctum, you’ll see her parents chained via magical means. As you approach, a cutscene will trigger. You learn Shadowheart’s real name: Jenevelle ~~Santos~~ Hallowleaf. Shar, the Mother of Night, chides you for your foolish efforts. You’re told that, if Shadowheart frees her parents, she’ll still suffer from the curse. Alternatively, you can let them perish. It’s quite an emotional moment, followed by an impossible choice that must be made.

Decide on what happens to Shadowheart’s parents.

“You should end their suffering, and yours” – Shadowheart will turn her parents’ spirits into Moonmotes. They’ll always be with her, even though they’re gone. After a long rest (or two), Shadowheart will stand in front of Selune’s statue, tearful that she only had a brief moment with her parents.

“This is your choice” or “Remain silent” – This will also cause the death of Shadowheart’s parents.

“Do not lose your parents, not again” – You have to pass a DC20 Religion or Persuasion check. Shadowheart’s parents will stay in your camp. They will accept her despite what she’s become in her misguided service to Shar. For the sake of clarity, this was the outcome that we chose.

The Mirror of Loss

Last but not least, you’ll see the Mirror of Loss at the back of the room. If you interact with it, you can go for an Arcana or Religion check to examine the relic’s purpose. There’s another Religion check to offer a prayer, but we didn’t plan on doing this as it might mean becoming a Shar worshiper.

Anyway, you’re asked to surrender a part of yourself:

Pick any of the six attributes, and you’ll lose two points to that stat. This can be cleansed via the Remove Curse spell.
Pick the Deception reply and pass the check, and you’ll be fine.

We tried interacting with the Mirror of Loss using Shadowheart, but it felt so wrong that we immediately reloaded our save.

Strangely enough, we only read of certain tidbits experienced by random people recounted via voiceover. Our character didn’t gain a new power, ability, or passive. We’re not sure if this is working as intended.

In any case, this is everything you can expect from the Sharran Lookout and House of Grief in Baldur’s Gate 3. Regardless of your decisions, you’ll conclude Shadowheart’s Daughter of Darkness quest chain.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is filled to the brim with activities and secrets. You’ll no doubt be part of an adventure that can take countless hours to complete. For other tips, you can visit our BG3 guides hub.

The products discussed here were independently chosen by our editors.
GameSpot may get a share of the revenue if you buy anything featured on our site.

Source link

Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.