What happens if I side with the Harpers in Baldur's Gate 3?
Siding with the Harpers in Baldur's Gate 3 is a significant story choice that can shape the direction of your playthrough. The Harpers are a secretive and noble organization dedicated to preserving balance and fighting against evil forces. Aligning with them can lead to unique quests, rewards, and narrative outcomes. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of how to side with the Harpers, the mechanics involved, and what to expect.
To side with the Harpers, you will encounter them during Act 2 of the game, specifically in the Shadow-Cursed Lands. The Harpers are based in Last Light Inn, a safe haven led by Jaheira, a returning character from previous Baldur's Gate games. To align with them, you must gain their trust and assist them in their missions. This involves completing key quests and making choices that align with their values of justice and protection.
The first step is to reach Last Light Inn. This location is accessible after you progress through the early parts of Act 2 and navigate the dangerous Shadow-Cursed Lands. Once there, you will meet Jaheira and other Harpers. They will ask for your help in dealing with the threats posed by the Absolute and the shadow curse. One of the first quests you can undertake is to help them defend the inn from an attack by the AbsoluteÔÇÖs forces. This battle is crucial, as failing to protect the inn can result in the death of key characters, including Jaheira, and weaken the HarpersÔÇÖ position.
During this defense, you will need to use strategic combat tactics. The enemies will include powerful foes like Dark Justiciars and shadow creatures. Positioning your party effectively is key. Place ranged characters like wizards or archers on high ground to maximize their damage output. Use area-of-effect spells like Fireball or Spirit Guardians to control groups of enemies. Protect important NPCs like Isobel, who provides a protective barrier around the inn. If she falls, the shadow curse will overwhelm the area, leading to dire consequences.
After successfully defending the inn, the Harpers will trust you more and offer additional quests. One such quest involves infiltrating Moonrise Towers, the stronghold of the Absolute. The Harpers will provide you with information and support to weaken the enemyÔÇÖs forces. This questline requires careful planning and stealth. You can choose to approach Moonrise Towers directly or use subterfuge to gather intelligence and sabotage their operations.
When making choices during these quests, always consider the HarpersÔÇÖ values. They favor actions that protect the innocent and undermine evil. For example, sparing prisoners or helping refugees will earn their approval. Conversely, actions that cause unnecessary harm or align with the AbsoluteÔÇÖs forces will damage your relationship with them.
A common mistake is underestimating the difficulty of the battles in Act 2. The shadow curse and the enemies in this region are significantly tougher than those in Act 1. Ensure your party is well-equipped and leveled before engaging in major fights. Stock up on healing potions, scrolls, and other consumables. Additionally, make sure your party composition is balanced, with a mix of damage dealers, tanks, and support characters.
Advanced techniques include using environmental advantages during combat. For example, you can lure enemies into chokepoints or use explosive barrels to deal massive damage. Additionally, leveraging your partyÔÇÖs abilities in synergy can turn the tide of battle. For instance, a wizard casting Haste on a fighter can double their attack potential, while a clericÔÇÖs Bless spell can improve your partyÔÇÖs accuracy and saving throws.
From a D&D rules perspective, the HarpersÔÇÖ quests often involve skill checks like Persuasion, Stealth, and Insight. Building a character with high Charisma and proficiency in these skills can make these encounters easier. For example, a Bard or Rogue with expertise in Persuasion can more easily convince NPCs to share information or avoid conflict.
In summary, siding with the Harpers involves completing key quests, making morally aligned choices, and excelling in combat. By defending Last Light Inn, infiltrating Moonrise Towers, and upholding the HarpersÔÇÖ values, you can solidify your alliance with them. This path not only provides unique rewards and story outcomes but also aligns you with one of the most respected factions in the game. Be prepared for challenging battles, make strategic choices, and leverage your partyÔÇÖs strengths to succeed.
To side with the Harpers, you will encounter them during Act 2 of the game, specifically in the Shadow-Cursed Lands. The Harpers are based in Last Light Inn, a safe haven led by Jaheira, a returning character from previous Baldur's Gate games. To align with them, you must gain their trust and assist them in their missions. This involves completing key quests and making choices that align with their values of justice and protection.
The first step is to reach Last Light Inn. This location is accessible after you progress through the early parts of Act 2 and navigate the dangerous Shadow-Cursed Lands. Once there, you will meet Jaheira and other Harpers. They will ask for your help in dealing with the threats posed by the Absolute and the shadow curse. One of the first quests you can undertake is to help them defend the inn from an attack by the AbsoluteÔÇÖs forces. This battle is crucial, as failing to protect the inn can result in the death of key characters, including Jaheira, and weaken the HarpersÔÇÖ position.
During this defense, you will need to use strategic combat tactics. The enemies will include powerful foes like Dark Justiciars and shadow creatures. Positioning your party effectively is key. Place ranged characters like wizards or archers on high ground to maximize their damage output. Use area-of-effect spells like Fireball or Spirit Guardians to control groups of enemies. Protect important NPCs like Isobel, who provides a protective barrier around the inn. If she falls, the shadow curse will overwhelm the area, leading to dire consequences.
After successfully defending the inn, the Harpers will trust you more and offer additional quests. One such quest involves infiltrating Moonrise Towers, the stronghold of the Absolute. The Harpers will provide you with information and support to weaken the enemyÔÇÖs forces. This questline requires careful planning and stealth. You can choose to approach Moonrise Towers directly or use subterfuge to gather intelligence and sabotage their operations.
When making choices during these quests, always consider the HarpersÔÇÖ values. They favor actions that protect the innocent and undermine evil. For example, sparing prisoners or helping refugees will earn their approval. Conversely, actions that cause unnecessary harm or align with the AbsoluteÔÇÖs forces will damage your relationship with them.
A common mistake is underestimating the difficulty of the battles in Act 2. The shadow curse and the enemies in this region are significantly tougher than those in Act 1. Ensure your party is well-equipped and leveled before engaging in major fights. Stock up on healing potions, scrolls, and other consumables. Additionally, make sure your party composition is balanced, with a mix of damage dealers, tanks, and support characters.
Advanced techniques include using environmental advantages during combat. For example, you can lure enemies into chokepoints or use explosive barrels to deal massive damage. Additionally, leveraging your partyÔÇÖs abilities in synergy can turn the tide of battle. For instance, a wizard casting Haste on a fighter can double their attack potential, while a clericÔÇÖs Bless spell can improve your partyÔÇÖs accuracy and saving throws.
From a D&D rules perspective, the HarpersÔÇÖ quests often involve skill checks like Persuasion, Stealth, and Insight. Building a character with high Charisma and proficiency in these skills can make these encounters easier. For example, a Bard or Rogue with expertise in Persuasion can more easily convince NPCs to share information or avoid conflict.
In summary, siding with the Harpers involves completing key quests, making morally aligned choices, and excelling in combat. By defending Last Light Inn, infiltrating Moonrise Towers, and upholding the HarpersÔÇÖ values, you can solidify your alliance with them. This path not only provides unique rewards and story outcomes but also aligns you with one of the most respected factions in the game. Be prepared for challenging battles, make strategic choices, and leverage your partyÔÇÖs strengths to succeed.