In Baldur’s Gate 3, the Lower City features a distinctive financial institution known as The Counting House, within which lies a concealed Vault accessible only through the resolution of a complex tile puzzle. This location is intertwined with a significant questline that offers the opportunity to enlist the Monk Minsc into your party. Successful entry into this establishment necessitates persuasion of certain individuals and the assembly of a complete group of companions capable of collaborative problem-solving.
While progressing through Act 3 of Baldur’s Gate 3, your character may come across The Counting House. However, admittance is subject to possession of a Vault Pass. Adjacent to the main gate, engaging with Head Clerk Meadhoney and succeeding in a Perception check reveals their apprehensions about events within the establishment. This insight empowers you to sway them into issuing a provisional Pass that grants you access to the premises.
Solving the Counting House Vault Puzzle in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)
Upon reaching the High Security Vault within the Counting House in Baldur’s Gate 3, players encounter an arrangement of tile plates that, when stepped on, trigger the illumination of a blue lantern. This mechanic is akin to the puzzle found in the Necrotic Laboratory in the same game, as it necessitates the activation of plates in a specific sequence. In total, there are nine tiles within the room, each functioning as pressure plates that remain inactive when a character steps away from them.
Each tile within the Counting House Vault is adorned with a distinct symbol, corresponding to numbers ranging from 1 in the upper-left corner to 9 in the lower-right corner. Dialogue with the Head Banker in Baldur’s Gate 3 provides the precise sequence required to consecutively illuminate the four lanterns. It is essential to exercise caution during this process, as an incorrect sequence will prompt a full puzzle reset. To prevent accidental plate activation while repositioning, it is advisable to disperse your party members.
The solution involves specific plate activations in a particular order. Firstly, position a character on the upper-left tile (“1”), followed by another character on the upper-right plate (“3”). Subsequently, the third party member should trigger the middle plate (“5”). Finally, the last individual should stand on the plate to the right of the central tile (“6”), thus unlocking the door and leading to the subsequent quest involving the ambush of the Stone Lord.
The passage ahead harbors a formidable confrontation, necessitating adequate preparation. Ensuring that your group is well-rested in Baldur’s Gate 3 and equipped with control spells like Arms of Hadar is advisable for the impending battle. Successfully deciphering the Counting House Vault puzzle grants access to victory in the ensuing skirmish and offers the opportunity to enlist Minsc as a companion.