Icewind Dale early walkthrough: Easthaven, Kuldahar and Vale of Shadows
Follow the opening investigation while preparing for the first sustained dungeon areas.
Edition covered
The original 2000 Icewind Dale campaign and its party-based AD&D fundamentals. Screenshots show Enhanced Edition, including scenes from bundled expansion content. Enhanced Edition adds class options and spells; Heart of Winter and Trials of the Luremaster are separate adventures.
Finish Easthaven preparations
The first settlement gives the custom party an opportunity to learn its equipment and abilities. Speak to Hrothgar, handle the opening local tasks and buy basic supplies before departing.
| Location | Purpose | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Easthaven | Meet the expedition and learn the party | Weapons, ammunition and healing |
| Expedition route | Opening journey | Keep fragile characters protected |
| Kuldahar | Speak to Arundel and use services | Review spell and supply needs |
| Vale of Shadows | Investigate the tombs | Scout for traps and preserve spell slots |
Reach Kuldahar and meet Arundel
Kuldahar becomes the main investigation hub. Read Arundel's account and the journal entry for the next destination instead of clearing every available direction without context.
| Item | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Journal lead | Identifies the actual objective | Read the latest entry |
| Quest object | May be needed for progress | Keep it until its use is resolved |
| Return route | Allows resupply | Remember exits and transitions |
| Party condition | Determines the next fight's risk | Heal and inspect ready spells |
Explore the Vale methodically
Tombs and narrow passages reward careful scouting. Check side chambers and quest items, but keep enough health and spells for the route back.
Return with the result
The early campaign is an investigation rather than a pure sequence of kill counts. New information often needs to be reported before the next leg becomes clear.
The early campaign is an investigation rather than a pure sequence of kill counts. New information often needs to be reported before the next leg becomes clear.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Icewind Dale publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Beamdog Survival Guide to the North | files.beamdog.com |
| Beamdog Mastering Melee and Magic | files.beamdog.com |