Learn how to solve the lunar cycle puzzle in Baldur’s Gate 3 with these expert tips and tricks. Can you crack the code and unlock hidden secrets.We reveal the steps you need to follow to solve the lunar cycle puzzle in the Desecrated Temple of Baldur’s Gate 3. Here’s what you need to do to move forward!
Of all the secrets and puzzles you’ll discover in Baldur’s Gate 3 , there’s one lunar cycle-based puzzle that’s sure to have you racking your brains for the solution. We’re referring to the Desecrated Temple puzzle that’s inside the goblin camp, beyond the High Priestess’s room, and which precedes one of the entrances to the Underdark . If you’re having trouble solving this puzzle, or you just succumb to its complexity and would rather see how it’s solved in one fell swoop, then keep reading this entry in our guide .
What is the solution to the lunar cycle puzzle?
To solve the lunar cycle puzzle, you must rotate the circles or plates on the floor of the Profaned Temple in such a way that the moons are arranged , effectively forming a complete cycle of the lunar phase (going from full to waning to waxing).
Explaining it in words may sound more complex than it actually is. You just need to rotate each circle in a specific order . To make it easier for you, we will first identify the circles on the ground with the names you can see in the following image:
Okay, with this in mind, we now show you below the steps you must take to complete the lunar cycle puzzle:
- Step 1:Rotate the top circle once.
- Step 2:Rotate the circle on the left once.
- Step 3:Rotate the circle on the right twice in a row.
- Step 4:Rotate the lower circle three times in a row.
- Step 5:Rotate the circle on the left twice.
After performing these turns properly, the puzzle will be successfully completed and a secret door will open at the bottom so you can descend through this new path into the Underdark . Naturally, you have to keep in mind that the solution we have shown you is only valid if you have not yet touched any circles or moved them to any position other than the one they show by default. If this is the case, the only way to “reset” the puzzle to its original position is by loading a previous save file (however, there is still an alternative to solve the puzzle that we encourage you to read below).
Aside from the above, after solving the puzzle you will gain some experience points for successfully completing it and if, for example, Gale is part of your team , you will also receive an inspiration point .
Alternative to solve the lunar puzzle easily
If solving the lunar puzzle is too complicated for you and you prefer to take shortcuts , there is a really quick alternative to solve it which consists of skipping the puzzle directly . How?
Very easy, for this you need the following:
- You must have characters on your team with a high Perception level.
- Once inside the temple, walk to the right side alcoveup the stairs in front of the floor puzzle.
- Your characters will make a Perception roll and if any of them manage to pass itsuccessfully, a lever hidden in the wall will be revealed.
- Pull the lever and the secret door at the back will open.
And that’s it, it couldn’t be easier. You don’t even have to touch the circles on the lunar puzzle to open the door. You just need to use perception to reveal the lever. If you have Astarion in your party, for example, it can be quite easy to discover it. It will save you time and headaches. You’re welcome.