Finding Bard’s Guitar in The Forge is one of the most important early-game quests you can complete, as it rewards you with the Unknown Key needed to access the Fallen Angel’s Cave and obtain the powerful Arcane Pickaxe. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the quest, from starting it with the Bard NPC to locating the hidden guitar and claiming your valuable rewards.
Quick Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Quest Giver | Bard NPC in Stonewake’s Cross |
| Location | Secret cave behind Umut the Brave |
| Required Level | No level requirement |
| Key Rewards | Unknown Key, XP, Cash |
| Unlock Access | Fallen Angel’s Cave (Arcane Pickaxe) |
| Difficulty | Easy (Beginner-friendly) |
Where to Find the Bard in The Forge?
The Bard is one of the first NPCs you’ll encounter in The Forge, making this quest easily accessible to new players. To find the Bard:
- Spawn Location: When you first load into the game, you’ll start in Stonewake’s Cross (World 1)
- Head East: From the spawn point, make your way east toward The Cave area
- Look for the Campfire: Just beyond the Potions Stall in the northeast area, you’ll spot a small campfire
- Identify the Bard: The Bard sits on the floor near the campfire, appearing sad and distressed
Pro Tip: The Bard is impossible to miss once you know where to look – he’s the only NPC in the immediate spawn area who’s visibly upset and not engaged in any activity.
How to Start the Bard’s Guitar Quest in June 2026?
Starting the quest is straightforward, but it’s crucial to interact with the Bard before attempting to find the guitar, as you won’t be able to pick it up otherwise.
- Approach the Bard: Get close to the Bard NPC near the campfire
- Press E Key: Interact with him using the E key (or your designated interaction key)
- Accept the Quest: The Bard will explain that he’s lost his guitar and ask for your help finding it
- Quest Activation: Once you accept, the quest will be active in your journal
Important Note: You cannot pick up Bard’s Guitar until you’ve officially started the quest. Many players make the mistake of finding the guitar location first, only to discover they can’t interact with it.
How to Find Bard’s Guitar in The Forge?
Now for the main part of the quest – locating the hidden guitar. The guitar is cleverly concealed in a secret area that many players miss on their first playthrough.
Step-by-Step Location Guide
- Enter The Cave: From the Bard’s location, head southeast and enter The Cave in Stonewake’s Cross
- Navigate to the Bottom: Follow the path down to the bottom of the cave entrance slope
- Find Umut the Brave: Look for the NPC named Umut the Brave – he’s your landmark
- Locate the Greenery: Opposite Umut the Brave, you’ll see a patch of greenery/bushes on the wall
- Identify the Secret Spot: The greenery is actually covering a hidden entrance – there’s an invisible hole in this bush patch
- Drop Down: Walk into the wall where the greenery is, and you’ll fall into a secret cave area
Inside the Secret Cave
Once you’ve dropped into the hidden area:
- Look for the Skeleton: You’ll find a skeleton lying on the ground in this secret cave
- Locate the Guitar: Bard’s Guitar is positioned just to the right of the skeleton, on the rocks
- Pick Up the Guitar: Press the E key to interact with and pick up the guitar
- Find the Exit: Use the ladder in the secret cave to return to the main cave area
Visual Guide: If you’re having trouble finding the exact spot, look for a pillar next to the leaves/bushes – this is a clear landmark that you’re in the right area.
How to Redeem Bard’s Guitar in June 2026?
After successfully locating and picking up Bard’s Guitar, you need to return it to complete the quest and claim your rewards.
- Return to the Bard: Go back to the Bard NPC near the campfire in Stonewake’s Cross
- Interact Again: Press the E key to speak with the Bard
- Select the Right Option: Choose the “Here is your guitar” dialogue option
- Quest Completion: The Bard will thank you, and the quest will be marked as complete
- Receive Rewards: You’ll automatically receive your quest rewards
Pro Tip: After completing the quest, the Bard will now be happily playing his guitar in the spawn area, serving as a visual confirmation that you’ve successfully completed this objective.
What Rewards Do You Get from Bard’s Guitar Quest?
Completing the Bard’s Guitar quest provides several valuable rewards that make this early-game quest essential for progression.
Primary Rewards
| Reward | Description | Importance |
| Unknown Key | Special key that unlocks a secret gate | Essential for progression |
| Experience Points (XP) | Helps level up your character | Standard progression |
| Cash | In-game currency for purchases | Useful for early-game gear |
The Unknown Key – Most Valuable Reward
The Unknown Key is by far the most important reward from this quest, as it grants access to:
- Fallen Angel’s Cave: A secret area within The Cave in Stonewake’s Cross
- Arcane Pickaxe: One of the best pickaxes in the game, available for purchase inside Fallen Angel’s Cave
- Progression Unlock: Access to higher-tier mining and crafting opportunities
Why This Matters: The Arcane Pickaxe you can access with the Unknown Key has significantly better stats than early-game pickaxes, making mining more efficient and profitable.
How to Use the Unknown Key in June 2026?
Once you have the Unknown Key, you’ll want to use it immediately to access the Fallen Angel’s Cave and potentially purchase the Arcane Pickaxe.
Step-by-Step Key Usage
- Return to The Cave: Go back to the main cave in Stonewake’s Cross
- Follow the Railway: Continue past where the railway line ends (where the NPC quest givers are)
- Turn Right: When the path splits, take the right turn
- Defeat Zombies: You may need to defeat a few low-level zombies along the way
- Find the Gate: Look for a massive iron gate/portcullis with a padlock
- Use the Key: Interact with the gate and use the Unknown Key to unlock it
- Enter Fallen Angel’s Cave: Step inside to access the secret area
Inside Fallen Angel’s Cave
The Fallen Angel’s Cave contains:
- Arcane Pickaxe: Available for purchase for 110,000 Gold
- High-Tier Equipment: Access to some of the best early-game equipment
- Future Content: Potential for additional secrets and content in future updates
Arcane Pickaxe Stats:
- Tier: 2
- Mine Power: 115
- Mine Speed: +10%
- Luck Boost: +50%
- Rune Slots: 3
- Price: 110,000 Gold
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Finding Bard’s Guitar
Many players encounter issues when trying to complete this quest. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Not Starting the Quest First
Problem: Players find the guitar location but can’t pick it up
Solution: Always interact with the Bard and accept the quest before searching for the guitar
2. Looking in the Wrong Cave Area
Problem: Searching the entire cave system without success
Solution: The guitar is specifically located opposite Umut the Brave, not in other cave sections
3. Missing the Hidden Entrance
Problem: Standing right next to the guitar location but not seeing the entrance
Solution: Look for the greenery/bushes on the wall opposite Umut – walk into the wall, not around it
4. Forgetting to Return the Guitar
Problem: Finding the guitar but not completing the quest
Solution: Remember to return to the Bard and select the correct dialogue option
5. Not Using the Unknown Key
Problem: Completing the quest but not progressing further
Solution: Use the Unknown Key immediately to unlock Fallen Angel’s Cave and access better equipment
Pro Strategies for Bard’s Guitar Quest
While this quest is relatively straightforward, these pro tips will help you complete it efficiently and maximize your rewards:
1. Early Game Priority
Strategy: Complete this quest as soon as possible after starting the game
Why: The Unknown Key and access to the Arcane Pickaxe provide significant early-game advantages
2. Combine with Other Quests
Strategy: Use the cave exploration to familiarize yourself with the area for other quests
Why: Understanding the cave layout helps with future quests and navigation
3. Save Gold for Arcane Pickaxe
Strategy: Start saving gold immediately after getting the Unknown Key
Why: The Arcane Pickaxe costs 110,000 Gold – having it ready means instant upgrade
4. Explore the Secret Area Thoroughly
Strategy: Take time to explore the secret cave where you find the guitar
Why: There may be additional secrets or future content added to this area
5. Document the Location
Strategy: Take screenshots or make notes about the exact location
Why: If you need to help friends or create content, having precise location details is valuable
Platform-Specific Information
The Bard’s Guitar quest works consistently across all platforms, but here are some platform-specific considerations:
PC Players
- Controls: Use E key for all interactions
- Camera: Adjust camera angle to better spot the hidden entrance
- Advantage: Easier to make precise movements for finding the secret drop
Mobile Players
- Controls: Tap interaction button on screen
- Challenge: May need to zoom in to see the hidden entrance clearly
- Tip: Use pinch-to-zoom to get a better view of the cave wall
Console Players
- Controls: Use the designated interaction button (varies by console)
- Camera: Utilize right stick for better camera control
- Note: Controller vibration may help when finding the hidden drop point
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I can’t find Bard’s Guitar in The Forge?
If you’re having trouble locating Bard’s Guitar, make sure you’ve started the quest by talking to the Bard first. The guitar is hidden in a secret drop area behind Umut the Brave in the cave. Look for greenery/bushes on the wall opposite Umut – walk into the wall at this location to drop into the secret area where the guitar is located next to a skeleton.
Why can’t I pick up Bard’s Guitar even when I’m standing on it?
You cannot pick up Bard’s Guitar until you’ve officially started the quest. Return to the Bard NPC near the spawn campfire, press E to interact with him, and accept the quest to find his guitar. Once the quest is active, you’ll be able to pick up the guitar when you find it.
Is the Unknown Key mandatory for progression in The Forge?
While not strictly mandatory for main story progression, the Unknown Key is highly recommended as it grants access to the Fallen Angel’s Cave where you can purchase the Arcane Pickaxe. This pickaxe significantly improves your mining efficiency, making it much easier to progress in the game.
Can I redo the Bard’s Guitar quest for more rewards?
No, the Bard’s Guitar quest can only be completed once per character. Once you’ve returned the guitar and received the Unknown Key, XP, and cash, the quest cannot be repeated. However, the rewards, especially the Unknown Key, provide permanent benefits.
What level do I need to be to start Bard’s Guitar quest?
There is no level requirement to start the Bard’s Guitar quest. It’s designed as an early-game quest that new players can complete immediately after spawning in Stonewake’s Cross. This makes it one of the first quests you should tackle when starting The Forge.
Where exactly is the secret entrance to Bard’s Guitar?
The secret entrance is located in The Cave of Stonewake’s Cross, opposite Umut the Brave NPC. Look for a patch of greenery or bushes on the wall – this is actually covering a hidden entrance. Walk into the wall at this location to drop down into the secret cave where Bard’s Guitar is located next to a skeleton.
What do I do with the Unknown Key after getting it?
Use the Unknown Key to unlock the iron gate in The Cave that leads to Fallen Angel’s Cave. To find it, go past where the railway line ends in the cave, turn right, and look for a large iron gate with a padlock. Use the key to unlock it and access the area where you can purchase the Arcane Pickaxe.
Is the Arcane Pickaxe worth the 110,000 Gold cost?
Yes, the Arcane Pickaxe is definitely worth the investment. With 115 Mine Power, +10% Mine Speed, +50% Luck Boost, and 3 Rune Slots, it’s one of the best pickaxes available in the early to mid-game. The significant boost to mining efficiency will pay for itself quickly through better ore collection.
Can I complete Bard’s Guitar quest with friends?
Yes, you can complete the quest while playing with friends. However, each player needs to start the quest individually by talking to the Bard, and each player must find and pick up their own guitar. The rewards are given per player, not shared among the group.
What happens if I die while carrying Bard’s Guitar?
If you die while carrying Bard’s Guitar, you will not lose the quest item. The guitar will remain in your inventory when you respawn, allowing you to continue the quest and return it to the Bard without having to find it again.
Conclusion
Finding Bard’s Guitar in The Forge is a straightforward yet essential quest that provides significant early-game advantages. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to locate the hidden guitar, complete the quest, and unlock access to the powerful Arcane Pickaxe through the Unknown Key.
Remember to start the quest by talking to the Bard first, explore the secret cave area thoroughly, and use your rewards wisely to maximize your progression in The Forge. The time invested in completing this quest will pay off significantly as you advance through the game.
Save this page for quick reference, and share it with friends who might be struggling to find Bard’s Guitar in The Forge. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this quest and enjoy the rewards that come with it!
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