How to Cool Down Karlach in Baldur's Gate 3: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Karlach’s Overheating Issue

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a moment to understand the root of Karlach’s problem. As a Tiefling, Karlach possesses an Infernal Engine, a device that grants her extraordinary power but also causes her to overheat. When her temperature rises too high, it becomes difficult for the player to engage in physical interactions with her, such as sharing a meal or enjoying a moment of respite.

Karlach’s overheating issue not only limits the player’s ability to bond with her but also hinders the progression of her personal quest. To fully experience Karlach’s story and unlock her potential as a companion, it’s crucial to find ways to manage her temperature effectively.

Step 1: Locate Dammon, the Tiefling Blacksmith

The key to solving Karlach’s overheating problem lies with Dammon, a skilled Tiefling Blacksmith who possesses the knowledge and tools to upgrade her Infernal Engine. To begin your journey, you must first locate Dammon.

Where to Find Dammon in Act 1

During Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3, Dammon can be found in the Emerald Grove. To reach him, follow these steps:

From the starting area, head towards the Emerald Grove.
Explore the grove until you come across a small encampment.
Look for a Tiefling NPC named Dammon, who will be working at his forge.

Initiating the Conversation

Once you’ve located Dammon, approach him with Karlach in your party. Engage in a conversation with him, and he will reveal that he requires a special material called Infernal Iron to stabilize Karlach’s Infernal Engine. This revelation sets you on a quest to acquire this rare resource.

Step 2: Gather Infernal Iron

To proceed with upgrading Karlach’s Infernal Engine, you must gather Infernal Iron. This rare material can be found in various locations throughout the game world. Here are some of the most reliable sources:

Infernal Iron Locations

Blighted Village: Inside the Blacksmith’s Workshop, you’ll find a locked chest containing Infernal Iron. To access it, climb the ladder and unlock the chest.
Waukeen’s Rest: Venture into the Zhentarim Hideout and explore the cave. In the back of the cave, you’ll discover a chest containing Infernal Iron.
Shattered Sanctum: Retrieve Infernal Iron from Dror Ragzlin’s stash within the sanctum.
Grymforge: Obtain Infernal Iron from Stonemason Kith. You can acquire it by successfully passing skill checks or purchasing it from him.

Once you’ve obtained a piece of Infernal Iron, return to Dammon to proceed with the upgrade.

Step 3: Upgrade Karlach’s Infernal Engine (Part 1)

With Infernal Iron in hand, head back to Dammon and initiate a conversation. Provide him with the Infernal Iron, and he will perform an initial upgrade on Karlach’s Infernal Engine. This upgrade offers some relief to Karlach, reducing her temperature and allowing for limited physical interactions.

It’s important to note that this initial upgrade is not a complete solution. While it provides temporary relief, Karlach will still experience occasional overheating, and certain interactions may remain limited.

Step 4: Progress to Act 2

To fully resolve Karlach’s overheating issue, you must progress to Act 2 of Baldur’s Gate 3. As you advance through the story, you’ll discover that Dammon has relocated to the Last Light Inn.

Finding Dammon in Act 2

Upon reaching Act 2, make your way to the Last Light Inn.
Explore the inn until you locate Dammon.
Engage in a conversation with him, and he will offer to perform a second upgrade on Karlach’s Infernal Engine.

Step 5: Upgrade Karlach’s Infernal Engine (Part 2)

During your conversation with Dammon in Act 2, he will offer to perform a second and final upgrade on Karlach’s Infernal Engine. This upgrade will permanently stabilize the device, allowing for unrestricted physical interactions with Karlach.

Benefits of the Final Upgrade

Karlach’s temperature will remain stable, preventing further overheating issues.
You’ll be able to engage in a wider range of physical interactions with Karlach, such as sharing meals, enjoying moments of rest, and progressing her personal quest.
Karlach’s combat effectiveness may also improve, as she’ll no longer be hindered by the limitations of her overheating Infernal Engine.

Temporary Cooling Methods

While working towards the permanent solution of upgrading Karlach’s Infernal Engine, there are a few temporary measures you can take to provide short-term relief:

Using Spells

Certain spells, such as Ray of Frost or Ice Knife, can be used to temporarily reduce Karlach’s temperature. Simply cast these spells on her during combat or exploration to provide a brief cooling effect.

Throwing Water Bottles

Another quick fix is to throw a Bottle of Water at Karlach. This action will temporarily lower her temperature, granting a short window of opportunity for physical interactions.

It’s crucial to remember that these temporary methods are not long-term solutions. They merely provide momentary relief and should be used in conjunction with the permanent upgrade process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I romance Karlach without cooling her down?

While you can initiate a romance with Karlach, progressing the relationship and engaging in intimate interactions will be limited until you permanently resolve her overheating issue.

Is it possible to miss the opportunity to upgrade Karlach’s Infernal Engine?

No, as long as you follow the main story progression and interact with Dammon when prompted, you won’t miss the chance to upgrade Karlach’s Infernal Engine.

Will cooling down Karlach affect her combat abilities?

Cooling down Karlach will not negatively impact her combat abilities. In fact, resolving her overheating issue may improve her performance by allowing her to focus fully on the battle at hand.

Can I give Karlach the Infernal Iron directly?

No, you must give the Infernal Iron to Dammon, as he possesses the knowledge and tools necessary to upgrade Karlach’s Infernal Engine.

Are there any side effects to using temporary cooling methods on Karlach?

No, using spells or throwing water bottles to temporarily cool down Karlach has no adverse side effects. However, these methods only provide short-term relief and should not be relied upon as a permanent solution.

Conclusion

Cooling down Karlach in Baldur’s Gate 3 is an essential part of her character progression and unlocking the full potential of your interactions with her. By following this step-by-step guide and acquiring the necessary Infernal Iron, you can assist Dammon in upgrading Karlach’s Infernal Engine, permanently resolving her overheating issue.

Remember to explore the game world thoroughly, as Infernal Iron can be found in various locations. Engage with Dammon at key points in the story, and don’t hesitate to use temporary cooling methods like spells or water bottles to provide short-term relief while working towards the permanent solution.

As you embark on your journey through Baldur’s Gate 3, take the time to invest in your companions, like Karlach. By understanding their unique challenges and working to overcome them, you’ll forge deeper bonds and create a more immersive and rewarding gaming experience.

For more Baldur’s Gate 3 guides, tips, and tricks, be sure to visit ZoneHex, your go-to source for expert insights and up-to-date information on this incredible RPG.