The Faith Leap Trial inBaldur’s Gate 3is one of the most memorable and challenging segments players encounter in the Gauntlet of Shar. While not as mechanically complex as some boss fights, this trial tests your perception, planning, and nerves. It’s essentially a puzzle wrapped in a leap of faith both figuratively and literally. Successfully completing the Faith Leap Trial is essential for progressing through Shadowheart’s companion quest and advancing the storyline tied to the Gauntlet of Shar. If you’re struggling with this mysterious challenge or simply want to make sure you do it right the first time, here’s a complete breakdown on how to do the Faith Leap Trial in BG3.
Where to Find the Faith Leap Trial
The Faith Leap Trial is located deep within theGauntlet of Shar, an ancient temple hidden beneath the Thorm Mausoleum in the Shadow-Cursed Lands. After completing the first few trials and puzzles in the Gauntlet like the Soft-Step Trial or the Self-Same Trial you will eventually come across a large chamber known as the Faith Leap Trial Room.
This trial is one of the final tests Shar demands of those seeking her approval, and it serves as a gatekeeper for continuing Shadowheart’s personal journey. Be sure your party is prepared and has completed previous trials before proceeding, as you won’t be able to skip it.
Understanding the Nature of the Trial
Unlike other trials in the Gauntlet, the Faith Leap Trial doesn’t involve combat or traps. Instead, it’s a test of invisible platforms and precise navigation. You must walk across an unseen path that leads to a glowing platform on the far side of the room. The problem? You can’t see the path unless you have the right tools or tricks to reveal it.
Mechanics of the Trial
- Falling off the invisible path deals damage and sends you back to the beginning.
- The room is dark and surrounded by a bottomless pit.
- There are no direct visual guides unless you find a way to reveal the path.
- The trial tests your trust in Shar, as well as your ability to observe and adapt.
How to Prepare for the Faith Leap Trial
Before attempting to cross the invisible path, take time to prepare your character or party. Having the right spells or gear can make the trial significantly easier. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
Bring a High Perception Character
Characters with a high Perception score are more likely to detect faint visual cues. While this won’t fully reveal the path, it can help you spot minor clues on the ground, making navigation easier.
Use See Invisibility or Detect Magic
Some players have reported success using detection spells. While they don’t always make the entire path visible, spells like See Invisibility or Detect Magic may reveal faint outlines or magical glimmers along the route. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s worth trying if you’re struggling.
Cast Light or Darkvision
If your party is struggling with vision, castingLightor using a character withDarkvisioncan help improve clarity. The room is dim, and illumination may help reveal environmental clues.
Save Often
Before stepping onto the platform, create a quick save. Do this after each successful step if you’re trying to brute force the path. This will save you from repeated fall damage and restarts.
How to Complete the Faith Leap Trial
Step-by-Step Strategy
Here’s a general strategy to help guide your way across the invisible path:
- Stand at the edge of the platform and rotate your camera to get a top-down view of the arena. This gives you a clearer sense of space.
- Begin moving forward in short, deliberate steps. Use the grid system to measure movement click a few feet ahead instead of holding movement keys continuously.
- If your character starts to sway or slow down, that’s often a sign they’re nearing the edge of the invisible platform. Stop immediately.
- Experiment with small diagonal or straight movements until you re-align with the path. Some players mark steps with dropped items (like bones or coins) to track their progress visually.
- Once you reach the center or halfway point, take note of the direction you’ve been moving. Often, the path shifts slightly, requiring a few turns before reaching the final glowing platform.
Using Shadowheart’s Connection
If Shadowheart is in your party, consider having her attempt the trial. As a cleric of Shar, she is thematically and narratively tied to this test. While it won’t guarantee success, her dialogue and emotional connection to the trial may offer additional insight or alternate routes.
What Happens After the Trial
Upon reaching the other side successfully, you will receive a mark of approval from Shar, necessary for advancing Shadowheart’s personal storyline. A pedestal or shrine typically awaits you there, containing a vital item or a progression point for her quest.
If you fail repeatedly, don’t worry there’s no penalty beyond taking damage and being reset. However, successfully completing the trial in one attempt without revealing the path is a roleplay-heavy, high-faith option. Some players may choose this route for immersion or challenge purposes.
Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Experience
- Use Turn-Based Mode If you’re struggling with missteps or falling off, enabling turn-based mode gives you precise control over movement.
- Leave Party Behind Only one character needs to cross. Leave the others behind to avoid group accidents.
- Use Environmental Markers Drop small items like weapons or junk loot to mark the path as you go.
- Height Advantage Try adjusting your camera angle to a top-down view. This makes it easier to line up your movements and track direction.
- Stay Calm and Patient Rushing the trial usually results in multiple failures. Move carefully, and be methodical.
Why the Faith Leap Trial Matters
This trial isn’t just a gameplay mechanic it’s a powerful symbol of trust and belief. In terms of narrative, it reflects the internal conflict Shadowheart faces and the devotion required to serve Shar. For players interested in deep roleplaying and character development, completing the Faith Leap Trial serves as a major turning point in the story.
Additionally, it’s a testament to Larian Studios’ design philosophy: blending gameplay with story in a way that forces players to think and feel as their characters do. Overcoming this challenge isn’t just about success it’s about understanding the world of BG3 more intimately.
The Faith Leap Trial inBaldur’s Gate 3is a memorable test of intuition, trust, and awareness. While it may seem simple on the surface, the invisible-path puzzle demands attention to detail and patience. Whether you brute-force it with trial and error, use clever magical aids, or embrace the narrative and take a blind leap, it’s an unforgettable part of the Gauntlet of Shar. Approach it with preparation, save frequently, and immerse yourself in the moment. The reward is more than just progression it’s a deeper connection to the game’s rich lore and emotional storytelling.