Creating Weapons and Potions: A Guide to Baldur's Gate 3

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The crafting and alchemy features in Baldur’s Gate 3 are useful tools that players should get familiar with, as they help in creating weapons, potions, and other items. However, the crafting system is somewhat limited—it doesn’t allow for building player houses or similar large projects. On the other hand, alchemy offers more depth, enabling players to craft various mixtures that can significantly influence their gameplay.

Understanding how these systems work will be very helpful during your journey, especially when facing challenging battles. Below, we’ve broken down the essentials to help you master these features. Whether you’re interested in blacksmithing, potion brewing, or just experimenting with items, this guide is for you.

## How Do Crafting and Alchemy Work in Baldur’s Gate 3?

Alchemy and crafting are two different systems in the game. Crafting involves using specific items at designated forges to produce weapons, armor, and gear. Alchemy, on the other hand, is about making consumables and other items by combining ingredients through the in-game alchemy interface. There’s also a third method called combination, which involves merging items in your inventory, like using dye on clothing.

We’ll walk through each of these so you know what to expect.

### Crafting Weapons and Armor

Crafting in Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t like other open-world games—it’s more quest-driven. Usually, you’ll find rare items and then bring them to specific forges to craft equipment following set recipes. For example, in the Grymforge in the Underdark, you need molds and ore to create Adamantite gear. Similarly, the forge in the Blighted Village requires Sussur Bark.

This means you won’t be able to craft any weapon or armor you want at will. Instead, you’re limited to certain options, and to find particular weapons, you’ll need to shop with traders or hunt monsters until they drop.

### Alchemy and Potion Making

Alchemy in Baldur’s Gate 3 is quite versatile. As you explore, you’ll gather various organic ingredients. To craft items, press H to open the Alchemy interface. There, you’ll see recipes you’ve collected—obtained from books, notes, or discoveries.

To make a potion or an alchemical item, you often need to create an “extract” first, which involves destroying three of the same ingredient. These extracts are then used to craft potions, explosives, elixirs, and weapon coatings, giving you a broad range of options for enhancing your abilities or dealing with enemies.

### Combining Items and Dyeing Equipment

Another way to modify gear is through item combination. This process is very specific and usually done directly from your inventory. Items that can be combined will have a “Combine” option. When selected, you’ll see a space where you can place another item.

If the items are compatible, the game will allow you to merge them—such as applying dye to armor or creating new weapons from parts like hilts and blades. Keep in mind, these combinations are always specific and don’t allow for mixing different pieces randomly; you need to have the exact matching parts.

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Mastering these systems will give you a real edge in Baldur’s Gate 3, especially in tough situations. Whether you’re forging gear, brewing potions, or customizing your equipment, being familiar with the mechanics can make a big difference.