You don't really need that extra spell slot for a game that's not at all punishing in the combat department though, and having Speak With Animals memorized as a ritual is just much better QoL than having to buy and drink potions all the time IMO

Smack the door with your sword. The only ones that don’t fall to my sword are arcane locked and astarion can lock pick those.

Agree, I only go with Knock if I’m not carrying Astarion around for some strange reason. He’s such a bastard, but too useful in so many situations. I’m a potion hoarder though and I will likely finish my run with enough potions to start my own business.