The main story of Baldur's Gate 3 will progress you through the main regions and the three Acts of the game. While the main story has a lot of content, there is a staggering amount of bonus content throughout each region.
As you progress to different areas, you'll reach different points of no return that will lock you off from earlier content in the game. For those looking at experiencing as much as possible, its important to know where these points of no return are.
Updated On August 21st, 2023 By Joshua Leeds: Baldur's Gate 3 has multiple points of no return, which will lock you off from previous content in the game. This article has been updated to include clear photos of the points of no return, along with additional links to help players progress through those points.
From Act 1 To Act 2
Whenever players transition to the area of Act 2, they will receive a notification to finish up most of the bonus content in the area. When transitioning to another Act, all the major characters in the game will also transition to another part of the world and end any of their open side quests. You'll still be able to fast travel back to the previous area, but many of the side quests will be inaccessible, with some smaller ones still available. The first instance of this point of no return is before reaching the Shadow Lands by either going through the Mountain Pass or Underdark.
Act 2's Point Of No Return
Later into Act 2 and after completing the Gauntlet of Shar, you'll see the next point of no return screen. This will fully lock you off from the first areas of Act 1, and you won't be able to travel back to any area before the Shadow Lands. The game will prompt you before progressing to Find The Nightsong and let you know that this is the point of no return, so make sure you've finished everything you want to before proceeding. You'll still have access to the Shadow Lands, and this isn't the end of Act 2, as other more recent areas will still be open for exploration.
Act 3's Point Of No Return
After defeating the final boss in Act 2, the big bad's plan will be clear, and it's time for you and your party to travel to Baldur's Gate. This is your last chance to complete quests in and explore the Shadow Lands. Upon leaving and getting on the road to Baldur's Gate, ALL content up until that point will be cut off, and you won't be able to return. Be sure to complete side quests and level up, as the road to Baldur's Gate will also hold a few surprises before you reach the city.