What happens if I side with the duergar in Baldur's Gate 3?
Siding with the duergar in Baldur's Gate 3 is a significant story choice that can have far-reaching consequences for your playthrough. This decision occurs during the Underdark portion of the game, specifically in the Grymforge area, where you encounter a group of duergar who are in conflict with the deep gnomes. The duergar are a race of gray dwarves known for their harsh and mercenary nature, and aligning with them can lead to unique outcomes and rewards, but it also comes with moral and narrative implications.
To side with the duergar, you will first need to navigate the Grymforge area, which is filled with environmental hazards, enemies, and opportunities for exploration. The key moment comes when you encounter the duergar leader, Sergeant Thrinn, who is overseeing the excavation of the area. She will offer you a deal to help her eliminate the deep gnomes, who are seen as a nuisance to their operations. Accepting this deal will set you on the path of siding with the duergar.
The mechanics involved in this choice are primarily dialogue-based. You will need to engage in conversations with both the duergar and the deep gnomes, and your choices in these dialogues will determine your alignment. To side with the duergar, you should express support for their cause and agree to assist them in their efforts. This may involve completing specific tasks for them, such as eliminating the deep gnomes or retrieving valuable items.
One important tip is to ensure that your party is well-prepared for combat, as siding with the duergar will likely lead to confrontations with the deep gnomes and other hostile forces in the area. Make sure your characters are equipped with appropriate gear and have access to healing and support spells. Additionally, consider the composition of your party, as certain classes and abilities may be more effective in the confined spaces and environmental hazards of the Underdark.
A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the deep gnomes. While they may seem like a minor threat, they can be formidable opponents, especially if you are not prepared for their tactics and abilities. Be sure to use crowd control spells and abilities to manage their numbers and prevent them from overwhelming your party.
Advanced techniques for this scenario include using stealth and deception to gain the upper hand. For example, you can use stealth to position your party in advantageous locations before initiating combat, or you can use deception to mislead the deep gnomes and gain their trust before turning on them. Additionally, consider using environmental hazards to your advantage, such as luring enemies into traps or using the terrain to control the flow of battle.
From a D&D rules perspective, siding with the duergar aligns with the concept of making morally ambiguous choices that can lead to different narrative outcomes. The duergar are lawful evil in alignment, and aligning with them may have consequences for your character's moral standing and relationships with other characters in the game. For example, certain companions may disapprove of your decision to side with the duergar, which could affect their loyalty and willingness to follow you.
Specific examples of the consequences of siding with the duergar include gaining access to unique rewards and items that are only available through their alliance. For instance, you may receive powerful weapons or armor that are not obtainable through other means. However, you may also miss out on opportunities to gain the trust and support of the deep gnomes, who have their own unique rewards and storylines.
In conclusion, siding with the duergar in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally challenging decision that can lead to unique outcomes and rewards. By carefully considering your choices, preparing your party for combat, and using advanced techniques, you can navigate this scenario effectively and shape the narrative of your playthrough in a meaningful way.
To side with the duergar, you will first need to navigate the Grymforge area, which is filled with environmental hazards, enemies, and opportunities for exploration. The key moment comes when you encounter the duergar leader, Sergeant Thrinn, who is overseeing the excavation of the area. She will offer you a deal to help her eliminate the deep gnomes, who are seen as a nuisance to their operations. Accepting this deal will set you on the path of siding with the duergar.
The mechanics involved in this choice are primarily dialogue-based. You will need to engage in conversations with both the duergar and the deep gnomes, and your choices in these dialogues will determine your alignment. To side with the duergar, you should express support for their cause and agree to assist them in their efforts. This may involve completing specific tasks for them, such as eliminating the deep gnomes or retrieving valuable items.
One important tip is to ensure that your party is well-prepared for combat, as siding with the duergar will likely lead to confrontations with the deep gnomes and other hostile forces in the area. Make sure your characters are equipped with appropriate gear and have access to healing and support spells. Additionally, consider the composition of your party, as certain classes and abilities may be more effective in the confined spaces and environmental hazards of the Underdark.
A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the deep gnomes. While they may seem like a minor threat, they can be formidable opponents, especially if you are not prepared for their tactics and abilities. Be sure to use crowd control spells and abilities to manage their numbers and prevent them from overwhelming your party.
Advanced techniques for this scenario include using stealth and deception to gain the upper hand. For example, you can use stealth to position your party in advantageous locations before initiating combat, or you can use deception to mislead the deep gnomes and gain their trust before turning on them. Additionally, consider using environmental hazards to your advantage, such as luring enemies into traps or using the terrain to control the flow of battle.
From a D&D rules perspective, siding with the duergar aligns with the concept of making morally ambiguous choices that can lead to different narrative outcomes. The duergar are lawful evil in alignment, and aligning with them may have consequences for your character's moral standing and relationships with other characters in the game. For example, certain companions may disapprove of your decision to side with the duergar, which could affect their loyalty and willingness to follow you.
Specific examples of the consequences of siding with the duergar include gaining access to unique rewards and items that are only available through their alliance. For instance, you may receive powerful weapons or armor that are not obtainable through other means. However, you may also miss out on opportunities to gain the trust and support of the deep gnomes, who have their own unique rewards and storylines.
In conclusion, siding with the duergar in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally challenging decision that can lead to unique outcomes and rewards. By carefully considering your choices, preparing your party for combat, and using advanced techniques, you can navigate this scenario effectively and shape the narrative of your playthrough in a meaningful way.