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Shadow Lantern in Baldur’s Gate 3 doesn’t protect against the shadow curse, but you can get the unique Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith spell.
In Baldur’s Gate 3, certain items stand out for their mystical properties, and the Shadow Lantern is one of those rare treasures that can prove invaluable on your journey. This enigmatic item not only provides useful lighting in the darkest corners of the world but also holds powerful, shadowy magic that can turn the tide in difficult situations. Whether you’re a fan of the arcane or simply need a unique tool for your adventures, the Shadow Lantern is a must-have. In this guide, we’ll explore the Shadow Lantern, how to acquire it, and tips for using it effectively in Baldur’s Gate 3.
What is the Shadow Lantern in BG3?
In Baldur’s Gate 3, the Shadow Lantern is the dark opposite of the Moonlantern that grants light and protection against the Shadow Curse. When equipped, the user is granted access to a high Level 6 Necromancy spell called Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith. When cast, it pulls an undead creature from the depths of the Shadow Lantern’s depraved magic to join your side in combat.
Unfortunately, the Shadow creature itself is not very strong, with only 24 HP and an Armour Class of 13. Furthermore, the spell can only be cast once per Long Rest.
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Shadow Lantern Abilities and Effects
All Moonlantern features in BG3:
- Weapon Type: Club
- Damage: 1d4 (1~4) Bludgeoning (One-handed); 1d6 (1~6) Bludgeoning (Two-handed)
- Requirements: Simple Weapons Proficiency
- Location: Can be crafted inside the secret space in Balthazar’s room at Moonrise Towers, only if Gale is in the party, Act 2.
- Weight: 0.9 kg
- Value: 190 gp
- Bonuses
- Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith: Pull an undead creature from the depths of the Shadow Lantern’s depraved magic to join your side in combat.
How to Get Shadow Lantern in BG3? Explained
To get Shadow Lantern, you must investigate a ritual circle with Gale in Balthazar’s hidden room in Moonrise Towers.
During Act 2, when you explore Moonrise Towers in the southwest of the map, you will eventually stumble across a unique room on the first floor just next to the Library. If you speak with Disciple Z’rell, she will tell you it’s Balthazar’s chambers. You can also convince her to give you the key to this room and let you in.
Balthazar is a powerful necromancer sent by Kethric to search for Nightsong. To find his room, go to the second floor; the stairs are behind the Kethrick throne in the throne room, which is the central part of the Moonrise towers. Upstairs, you must turn right and pass through the library to get to the Balthazar’s Chambers. Be careful because the room is filled with traps.
His secret room is behind the bookcase. To open it, you must search the area and pick up two human hearts. Next, interact with the pedestal beside the bookcase and insert the human heart.
Inside, you will find many interesting items and information and learn more about the famous necromancer. However, on the table to the right, you will find a Balthazar ritual circle. If you have Gale in your team he will explain the mechanics behind Shadow Lantern and its connection to Mystra.
From now on, you can create the Lantern; everything you need is in the room. Pick Gale and interact with the ritual circle. If you try to do it with any other character, Gale will comment on how silly the idea is, and he should be the one to do it. Also, you must pass a 30 DC intelligence check (Arcana). SO using Gale for that task is the best option.
Combine the Dead Pixie with a Broken Moonlantern to craft a Shadow Lantern in the Balthazar’s ritual circle.
How to Use the Shadow Lantern in BG3?
Shadow Lantern is a type of Moonlantern but doesn’t provide protection against the Shadow Curse. Instead, it allows you to summon a level 6 necromancy spell called Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith once per long rest. Also, unlike the regular Moonlantern, the Shadow Lantern should be equipped in the weapon slot instead of the torch slot. As a result, it has a 1d4 + Strength modifier and deals the Bludgeoning damage.
Should You Get Shadow Lantern?
If you listen to the conversation between Gale and your character, it will become evident that the alternative is to destroy Balthazar’s ritual circle. If you allow Gale to destroy it, he will receive the Mystra’s Benevolence permanent bonus. It gives him the advantage on concentration checks until the next long rest. Because the bonus isn’t permanent, it may be helpful before the final battle or if you know the challenging combat is next. Otherwise, getting a unique weapon with an additional summoner pet for your party is probably more beneficial.
Please note if your character or any other team member destroys Balthazar’s ritual circle, there are no benefits or additional bonuses; you must have Gale on your team.
Tips and Tricks for the Shadow Lantern in BG3
These are the best tips and tricks for finding and using the Shadow Lantern in Baldur’s Gate 3:
- You technically can get this without Gale, but you’ll have to ignore his protests AND pass a 30 DC Arcana check. Very unlikely at this point in the game unless you save scum.
- You can only cast the spell if the Shadow Lantern is equipped as a weapon. The spell will not be available if you put the Shadow Lantern in the torch slot.
- The Shadow Lantern, as its name implies, offers no light and no protection from the Shadow Curse.
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FAQs about Shadow Lantern in BG3
Where can I find Shadow Lantern in Baldur’s Gate 3?
You can find the Shadow Lantern in the secret space within Balathazar’s Room at Moonrise Towers, and will need Gale to put it together using the ritual circle in Act 2.
Which classes or builds benefit most from Shadow Lantern?
A Necromancy Wizard will benefit the most from equipping and using the Shadow Lantern in the mid-game of Baldur’s Gate 3. However, there are better end-game quarterstaves, so you will likely want to switch it out in Act 3.
Can you access the spell by equipping the Shadow Lantern in your torch slot?
No, you can only cast the Conjure Shadow Lantern Wraith spell if you have the Shadow Lantern equipped in your weapon slot in BG3.
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