The Nine Hells, also known as the Hells of Baator, are a plane of existence in the Dungeons & Dragons cosmology, serving as the ultimate home of devils and a place of eternal torment and conflict. In Baldur's Gate 3, the influence of the Nine Hells is felt through the machinations of devils and the consequences of pacts made with infernal powers. Understanding this plane is key to comprehending certain character backgrounds and the origins of some of the game's most formidable threats.
The Nine Hells in D&D Lore
The Nine Hells are a lawful evil plane, structured as a series of nine concentric circles, each ruled by a powerful Archdevil. These layers are characterized by their oppressive environments and the constant struggle for power among the devils. The most well-known layer is Avernus, the first layer, which has a direct connection to the events of the Descent into Avernus tabletop campaign, a prequel to Baldur's Gate 3.
Influence on Baldur's Gate 3
The events of Descent into Avernus saw the city of Elturel dragged into Avernus. While the city was eventually saved, the lingering influence of the Nine Hells and the pacts made with devils can still be felt throughout the Forgotten Realms. Players might encounter:
- Devil Cultists: Individuals or groups who worship devils and seek to harness their power.
- Infernal Pacts: Characters who have made deals with devils, often for personal gain, with dire consequences.
- Infernal Artifacts: Items imbued with the power of the Nine Hells, which can be both beneficial and dangerous.
The presence of the Nine Hells serves as a constant reminder of the darker forces at play in the Forgotten Realms and the temptations that can lead even the noblest heroes astray. Characters with backgrounds tied to infernal pacts or those who have witnessed the horrors of Avernus will have unique perspectives on the game's unfolding narrative.
Key Lore Connections
- Avernus: The first layer of the Nine Hells, where the city of Elturel was once imprisoned.
- Archdevils: The rulers of each layer, such as Asmodeus, the Lord of the Nine.
- Infernal Contracts: Deals struck with devils, which always come with a steep price.
The lore surrounding the Nine Hells adds a layer of cosmic dread and moral complexity to Baldur's Gate 3, highlighting the eternal struggle between good and evil.