What are the consequences of letting the Absolute control the Elder Brain in Baldur's Gate 3?

Letting the Absolute control the Elder Brain in Baldur's Gate 3 is one of the most significant and morally complex decisions you can make in the game. This choice has far-reaching consequences for the story, your companions, and the world of Faer├╗n. To understand the mechanics and implications of this decision, itÔÇÖs important to first grasp the context of the Elder Brain and the Absolute.

The Elder Brain is a powerful entity that serves as the central intelligence for the Mind Flayer colony. It controls the actions of the Mind Flayers and their thralls, including the cult of the Absolute. The Absolute, on the other hand, is a mysterious force that has been manipulating events throughout the game, using the Mind Flayers and their tadpoles to exert control over individuals. When you reach the climax of the game, you are presented with the choice to either destroy the Elder Brain or allow the Absolute to take control of it.

To achieve the outcome where the Absolute controls the Elder Brain, you must align yourself with the forces of the Absolute throughout the game. This involves making choices that support the cult and its goals, such as siding with the AbsoluteÔÇÖs followers in key conflicts and using the tadpole powers granted to you. As you progress through the story, you will encounter moments where you can either resist the influence of the Absolute or embrace it. Choosing to embrace the AbsoluteÔÇÖs power will lead you down a path where you become more aligned with its goals.

One of the key moments in this path is the confrontation with the Elder Brain in the final act of the game. Here, you will have the option to use the Netherstones, powerful artifacts that can control the Elder Brain, to either destroy it or allow the Absolute to take control. If you choose to let the Absolute control the Elder Brain, you will essentially be handing over ultimate power to the cult, allowing them to dominate the world of Faer├╗n.

The consequences of this choice are profound. The world will fall under the control of the Absolute, with the Mind Flayers and their thralls ruling over all. Your companions will react differently to this decision based on their personalities and your relationship with them. Some may be horrified and turn against you, while others who have embraced the AbsoluteÔÇÖs power may support your choice. The ending you receive will reflect the dark path you have chosen, with the world plunged into a new era of tyranny and oppression.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind if you are aiming for this outcome. First, itÔÇÖs crucial to consistently make choices that align with the AbsoluteÔÇÖs goals. This means using the tadpole powers whenever possible and siding with the cult in key moments. Additionally, you should focus on building relationships with companions who are more likely to support this path, such as those who have also embraced the tadpole powers.

One common mistake to avoid is making choices that resist the AbsoluteÔÇÖs influence. If you frequently resist the tadpole powers or oppose the cult, you may find it difficult to achieve the outcome where the Absolute controls the Elder Brain. ItÔÇÖs also important to be aware of the moral implications of this choice, as it represents a significant shift towards evil and domination.

Advanced techniques for this path include optimizing your character build to take full advantage of the tadpole powers. This might involve focusing on abilities that enhance your control over others, such as charm or domination spells. Additionally, you can use the Netherstones strategically to ensure that the Absolute gains control of the Elder Brain without interference.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, the concept of the Elder Brain and the AbsoluteÔÇÖs control over it is rooted in the lore of Mind Flayers and their psionic abilities. The Netherstones function as powerful artifacts that can manipulate the Elder Brain, reflecting the high-level magic and psionics present in the game. The moral and ethical dilemmas presented by this choice are also a key aspect of D&D storytelling, challenging players to consider the consequences of their actions.

Specific examples of scenarios where this choice comes into play include the confrontation with Ketheric Thorm, one of the AbsoluteÔÇÖs chosen, and the final battle in the Mind Flayer colony. In these moments, your decisions will have a direct impact on whether the Absolute gains control of the Elder Brain. By consistently supporting the Absolute and using the Netherstones to your advantage, you can achieve the dark ending where the Absolute reigns supreme.

In conclusion, letting the Absolute control the Elder Brain in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 is a complex and morally challenging decision that requires careful planning and alignment with the cultÔÇÖs goals. By understanding the mechanics, making strategic choices, and optimizing your character build, you can achieve this outcome and explore the dark consequences of your actions.