What are the consequences of letting the Emperor control the Githyanki in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a mysterious and powerful figure who plays a significant role in the game's narrative. One of the key decisions players face is whether to allow the Emperor to control the Githyanki, a race of fierce and disciplined warriors. This choice has far-reaching consequences for the story, your companions, and the world at large. Understanding the mechanics, strategies, and implications of this decision is crucial for players who want to navigate the game's complex narrative.

The Emperor's control over the Githyanki is tied to the main questline, particularly the conflict between the Githyanki and the Mind Flayers. The Githyanki are sworn enemies of the Mind Flayers, and their leader, Vlaakith, seeks to destroy the Emperor, who is a rogue Mind Flayer. The Emperor, on the other hand, offers you a chance to ally with him and use his powers to control the Githyanki, potentially turning them into a powerful asset against the greater threats you face.

To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the point where the Emperor reveals his true nature and offers you the choice to join forces with him. This typically occurs in Act 2 or Act 3, depending on your choices and how you have interacted with the Githyanki up to that point. You will need to have built a certain level of trust with the Emperor, which is influenced by your dialogue choices and actions throughout the game. If you have consistently supported the Emperor and shown a willingness to work with him, he will be more likely to offer you the option to control the Githyanki.

Once the Emperor presents this choice, you must decide whether to accept his offer. If you agree, the Emperor will use his psionic abilities to dominate the Githyanki, effectively turning them into your allies. This can provide significant advantages in combat, as the Githyanki are formidable warriors with powerful abilities. However, this decision also has moral and narrative consequences. By allowing the Emperor to control the Githyanki, you are essentially enslaving them, which may conflict with your character's values or the values of your companions.

One important consideration is the impact this choice will have on your companions, particularly Lae'zel, who is a Githyanki herself. Lae'zel has a strong sense of loyalty to her people and their traditions, and she may react negatively to the idea of the Emperor controlling them. If you value your relationship with Lae'zel, you may want to think carefully before making this decision. On the other hand, if you are more focused on the strategic benefits, the Emperor's control over the Githyanki can be a powerful tool in your fight against the Mind Flayers and other enemies.

Another factor to consider is the long-term consequences of this choice. Allowing the Emperor to control the Githyanki may give you an immediate advantage, but it could also lead to unforeseen complications later in the story. The Githyanki are a proud and independent race, and their subjugation could have ripple effects throughout the game world. Additionally, the Emperor's motives are not entirely clear, and his control over the Githyanki may be part of a larger plan that could ultimately work against your interests.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, the decision to let the Emperor control the Githyanki is a narrative choice rather than a combat or skill-based one. However, it is important to consider how this choice will affect your party's dynamics and your overall strategy. If you are playing a character who values power and pragmatism over morality, this choice may align with your goals. If you are playing a more morally upright character, you may want to explore other options that do not involve enslaving an entire race.

In conclusion, the decision to let the Emperor control the Githyanki in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex one with significant narrative and gameplay implications. It requires careful consideration of your character's values, your relationships with your companions, and the potential long-term consequences of your actions. By understanding the mechanics and strategies involved, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your playstyle and the story you want to experience.