What are the consequences of siding with the Absolute in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3?
Siding with the Absolute in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a significant story choice that can drastically alter the course of the game. This decision involves aligning yourself with the forces of the Absolute, a mysterious and malevolent entity that seeks to dominate the world. The consequences of this choice are far-reaching, affecting your relationships with companions, the progression of the main story, and the overall outcome of the game. Here is a detailed explanation of what happens when you side with the Absolute, along with strategies, tips, and considerations to help you navigate this path.
To side with the Absolute, you must first reach Act 2, which begins after you leave the first area and enter the Shadow-Cursed Lands. In this region, you will encounter various factions and characters tied to the Absolute, including the cultists and their leaders. One of the key moments where you can choose to side with the Absolute occurs during interactions with Ketheric Thorm, a major antagonist and one of the Chosen of the Absolute. Ketheric is a powerful figure who commands the forces of the Absolute in the Shadow-Cursed Lands, and aligning with him means pledging your loyalty to the Absolute's cause.
The mechanics of siding with the Absolute involve making specific dialogue choices and taking actions that demonstrate your allegiance. For example, during conversations with Ketheric or other representatives of the Absolute, you will be given options to express your willingness to join their ranks. These choices often require you to pass Persuasion, Deception, or Intimidation checks, depending on your approach. Successfully passing these checks will solidify your alliance with the Absolute and open up new story paths.
One important tip is to ensure that your character has high Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion, Deception, or Intimidation. This will increase your chances of successfully convincing the Absolute's followers of your loyalty. Additionally, consider equipping items or using spells that boost your Charisma or grant advantage on social skill checks. These preparations can make a significant difference in critical moments.
Siding with the Absolute has several consequences. First, it will strain or sever your relationships with certain companions, particularly those who have strong moral convictions or personal vendettas against the Absolute. Characters like Shadowheart, who has her own ties to the Absolute, may react differently depending on her personal questline. Other companions, such as Wyll or Karlach, may outright refuse to follow you if you choose to side with the Absolute, potentially leading to them leaving your party or even turning against you.
Another consequence is the impact on the main story. Aligning with the Absolute means you will be working against the forces trying to stop the Absolute's rise to power. This includes groups like the Harpers and the Druids, who are actively resisting the Absolute's influence. By siding with the Absolute, you will be tasked with undermining these groups, which can lead to unique quests and encounters that are not available if you choose to oppose the Absolute.
A common mistake to avoid is not considering the long-term implications of your choice. Siding with the Absolute may offer short-term benefits, such as gaining powerful allies or access to unique resources, but it can also lock you into a path that limits your options later in the game. For example, certain endings and story resolutions may become unavailable if you fully commit to the Absolute's cause. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of this decision carefully, especially if you are aiming for a specific outcome or ending.
Advanced techniques for this path include leveraging your position within the Absolute's hierarchy to manipulate events in your favor. For instance, you can use your newfound authority to gather information, recruit powerful allies, or even sabotage the Absolute's plans from within. This requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the game's mechanics, as well as the ability to navigate complex social dynamics.
In terms of D&D rules, siding with the Absolute aligns your character with an evil alignment, which can influence how NPCs and companions perceive and interact with you. This alignment shift may also affect certain class abilities or spells that are tied to your moral standing. For example, a Paladin who swears an Oath of Devotion may find their powers weakened or lost if they choose to side with the Absolute, as this decision conflicts with their oath's principles.
Specific examples of siding with the Absolute include participating in rituals or ceremonies that further the Absolute's goals, such as the Moonrise Towers ritual in Act 2. By taking part in these events, you demonstrate your loyalty and gain the trust of the Absolute's leaders. However, these actions often come at a cost, such as sacrificing innocent lives or betraying former allies.
In conclusion, siding with the Absolute in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous choice that can lead to significant consequences. It requires careful consideration of your character's build, your relationships with companions, and your long-term goals for the game. By understanding the mechanics involved, preparing for the challenges ahead, and making informed decisions, you can navigate this path effectively and experience a unique and compelling story arc.
To side with the Absolute, you must first reach Act 2, which begins after you leave the first area and enter the Shadow-Cursed Lands. In this region, you will encounter various factions and characters tied to the Absolute, including the cultists and their leaders. One of the key moments where you can choose to side with the Absolute occurs during interactions with Ketheric Thorm, a major antagonist and one of the Chosen of the Absolute. Ketheric is a powerful figure who commands the forces of the Absolute in the Shadow-Cursed Lands, and aligning with him means pledging your loyalty to the Absolute's cause.
The mechanics of siding with the Absolute involve making specific dialogue choices and taking actions that demonstrate your allegiance. For example, during conversations with Ketheric or other representatives of the Absolute, you will be given options to express your willingness to join their ranks. These choices often require you to pass Persuasion, Deception, or Intimidation checks, depending on your approach. Successfully passing these checks will solidify your alliance with the Absolute and open up new story paths.
One important tip is to ensure that your character has high Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion, Deception, or Intimidation. This will increase your chances of successfully convincing the Absolute's followers of your loyalty. Additionally, consider equipping items or using spells that boost your Charisma or grant advantage on social skill checks. These preparations can make a significant difference in critical moments.
Siding with the Absolute has several consequences. First, it will strain or sever your relationships with certain companions, particularly those who have strong moral convictions or personal vendettas against the Absolute. Characters like Shadowheart, who has her own ties to the Absolute, may react differently depending on her personal questline. Other companions, such as Wyll or Karlach, may outright refuse to follow you if you choose to side with the Absolute, potentially leading to them leaving your party or even turning against you.
Another consequence is the impact on the main story. Aligning with the Absolute means you will be working against the forces trying to stop the Absolute's rise to power. This includes groups like the Harpers and the Druids, who are actively resisting the Absolute's influence. By siding with the Absolute, you will be tasked with undermining these groups, which can lead to unique quests and encounters that are not available if you choose to oppose the Absolute.
A common mistake to avoid is not considering the long-term implications of your choice. Siding with the Absolute may offer short-term benefits, such as gaining powerful allies or access to unique resources, but it can also lock you into a path that limits your options later in the game. For example, certain endings and story resolutions may become unavailable if you fully commit to the Absolute's cause. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of this decision carefully, especially if you are aiming for a specific outcome or ending.
Advanced techniques for this path include leveraging your position within the Absolute's hierarchy to manipulate events in your favor. For instance, you can use your newfound authority to gather information, recruit powerful allies, or even sabotage the Absolute's plans from within. This requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the game's mechanics, as well as the ability to navigate complex social dynamics.
In terms of D&D rules, siding with the Absolute aligns your character with an evil alignment, which can influence how NPCs and companions perceive and interact with you. This alignment shift may also affect certain class abilities or spells that are tied to your moral standing. For example, a Paladin who swears an Oath of Devotion may find their powers weakened or lost if they choose to side with the Absolute, as this decision conflicts with their oath's principles.
Specific examples of siding with the Absolute include participating in rituals or ceremonies that further the Absolute's goals, such as the Moonrise Towers ritual in Act 2. By taking part in these events, you demonstrate your loyalty and gain the trust of the Absolute's leaders. However, these actions often come at a cost, such as sacrificing innocent lives or betraying former allies.
In conclusion, siding with the Absolute in Act 2 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous choice that can lead to significant consequences. It requires careful consideration of your character's build, your relationships with companions, and your long-term goals for the game. By understanding the mechanics involved, preparing for the challenges ahead, and making informed decisions, you can navigate this path effectively and experience a unique and compelling story arc.