Navigating the realm of Avernus in Baldur's Gate 3 leads players to one of the game's most intense endgame locations, the House of Hope. This sinister domain belongs to the devil Raphael and contains legendary loot alongside critical storyline items. Understanding how to enter, explore, and survive this deadly heist is crucial for completing your journey through Act Three.
How to Enter the House of Hope
To reach Raphael's personal domain, players must travel to the Devil's Fee shop located in the Lower City. Inside, you need to perform the Helsik Ritual on the top floor by placing specific items in a portal circle. Opening this portal grants direct access to Avernus, but keep in mind that fast travel back to camp is disabled while inside.
Preparing your party before stepping through the portal is vital for surviving the encounters ahead. Bring characters capable of casting powerful area-of-effect spells, stealth abilities, and high-tier recovery magic. You should also ensure everyone is equipped with versatile potions and resistance elixirs to mitigate massive fire damage.
Exploring the Estate and Rescuing Hope
Upon arriving in the House of Hope, you will encounter Hope, a captive soul who provides vital disguise magic so you can move freely. While disguised as a debtor, the residents will remain neutral toward your party as you explore the corridors. Take this opportunity to locate the secret treasure rooms and visit the Boudoir for valuable restoration effects.
Your primary goal usually involves retrieving the Orphic Hammer or destroying your personal contract in the Archive. Claiming these items requires a specific password obtained from Haarlep in the Boudoir. Once the key item is taken, the entire mansion becomes hostile, forcing you to fight your way down to the prison to free Hope using the hammer.
Defeating Raphael and Claiming Rewards
Escaping the House of Hope culminates in a brutal boss showdown against Raphael at the main exit portal. He is accompanied by powerful allies and supported by four Soul Pillars that empower his destructive magic. Focus on destroying these Soul Pillars with bludgeoning or force attacks while keeping the surrounding minions under control.
Utilize Hope's powerful Cleric abilities, including her Divine Intervention spell, to keep your team alive during the chaos. After defeating Raphael, you can loot the legendary Helldusk Armor directly from his body. Successfully escaping concludes one of the most rewarding adventures in the entire campaign.
