What happens if I let the Absolute control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3?
If you choose to let the Absolute control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3, you are essentially siding with the forces of evil and domination, leading to a dark and oppressive ending for the world. This choice is one of the most significant and morally complex decisions in the game, as it involves manipulating the Netherbrain, a powerful entity tied to the Mind Flayers, to serve the Absolute's will. Here is a detailed breakdown of how this choice unfolds, the mechanics involved, and the consequences.
To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final act, where the fate of the Netherbrain is decided. Throughout the game, you will have encountered the Absolute, a mysterious and malevolent force that seeks to dominate all life. The Absolute is closely tied to the Mind Flayers and their Elder Brain, which has evolved into the Netherbrain. Your journey will involve gathering allies, uncovering secrets, and making critical decisions that shape your path.
When you reach the final confrontation, you will have the option to either destroy the Netherbrain or seize control of it. To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must choose the latter option. This requires you to have the Crown of Karsus, a powerful artifact that grants immense control over the Netherbrain. The Crown is a key element in this decision, as it allows you to channel the Absolute's power and bend the Netherbrain to its will.
The mechanics of this choice involve a series of skill checks and dialogue options. You will need to persuade or intimidate key characters, such as your companions and the Netherbrain itself, to align with your decision. High Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion or Intimidation will be crucial here. Additionally, you may need to pass Arcana or Intelligence checks to understand the intricacies of the Crown and the Netherbrain's control mechanisms. Failing these checks can lead to unintended consequences, such as losing control of the Netherbrain or triggering a hostile reaction from your companions.
One important tip is to ensure that your character is well-prepared for the final act. This includes having a strong build with high Charisma and relevant skill proficiencies. If you are playing as a spellcaster, consider spells that enhance your ability to influence others, such as Charm Person or Dominate Monster. For martial characters, focus on combat abilities that can help you survive the final battles, as you may face resistance from those who oppose your decision.
A common mistake to avoid is neglecting your companions' opinions and loyalty. Throughout the game, your choices will influence how your companions view you. If you have built strong relationships with them, they may support your decision to let the Absolute control the Netherbrain. However, if they distrust you or disagree with your methods, they may turn against you, leading to a more challenging final confrontation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your companions and consider their perspectives when making critical decisions.
Advanced techniques involve optimizing your party composition and strategy for the final battles. Ensure that your party members are well-equipped with powerful weapons, armor, and consumables. Consider bringing characters with high Charisma or spellcasting abilities to assist with skill checks and dialogue options. Additionally, plan your combat tactics carefully, as the final battles can be intense and require strategic thinking.
From a D&D rules perspective, the mechanics of controlling the Netherbrain align with the concept of Dominate Monster, a high-level spell that allows a caster to take control of a powerful creature. The Crown of Karsus acts as a focus for this control, amplifying the Absolute's influence over the Netherbrain. Understanding these rules can help you make informed decisions and anticipate the consequences of your actions.
In specific scenarios, you may encounter resistance from factions or characters who oppose the Absolute's domination. For example, the Githyanki, who have their own agenda regarding the Netherbrain, may challenge your decision. Similarly, companions like Lae'zel or Shadowheart may have personal stakes in the outcome, leading to potential conflicts. Navigating these scenarios requires careful consideration of your relationships and the broader implications of your choices.
Ultimately, letting the Absolute control the Netherbrain leads to a dark and oppressive ending where the world falls under the Absolute's dominion. This choice reflects a willingness to embrace power and control at the expense of freedom and morality. It is a path that challenges your character's values and the bonds you have formed throughout your journey, making it one of the most impactful decisions in Baldur's Gate 3.
To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final act, where the fate of the Netherbrain is decided. Throughout the game, you will have encountered the Absolute, a mysterious and malevolent force that seeks to dominate all life. The Absolute is closely tied to the Mind Flayers and their Elder Brain, which has evolved into the Netherbrain. Your journey will involve gathering allies, uncovering secrets, and making critical decisions that shape your path.
When you reach the final confrontation, you will have the option to either destroy the Netherbrain or seize control of it. To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must choose the latter option. This requires you to have the Crown of Karsus, a powerful artifact that grants immense control over the Netherbrain. The Crown is a key element in this decision, as it allows you to channel the Absolute's power and bend the Netherbrain to its will.
The mechanics of this choice involve a series of skill checks and dialogue options. You will need to persuade or intimidate key characters, such as your companions and the Netherbrain itself, to align with your decision. High Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion or Intimidation will be crucial here. Additionally, you may need to pass Arcana or Intelligence checks to understand the intricacies of the Crown and the Netherbrain's control mechanisms. Failing these checks can lead to unintended consequences, such as losing control of the Netherbrain or triggering a hostile reaction from your companions.
One important tip is to ensure that your character is well-prepared for the final act. This includes having a strong build with high Charisma and relevant skill proficiencies. If you are playing as a spellcaster, consider spells that enhance your ability to influence others, such as Charm Person or Dominate Monster. For martial characters, focus on combat abilities that can help you survive the final battles, as you may face resistance from those who oppose your decision.
A common mistake to avoid is neglecting your companions' opinions and loyalty. Throughout the game, your choices will influence how your companions view you. If you have built strong relationships with them, they may support your decision to let the Absolute control the Netherbrain. However, if they distrust you or disagree with your methods, they may turn against you, leading to a more challenging final confrontation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your companions and consider their perspectives when making critical decisions.
Advanced techniques involve optimizing your party composition and strategy for the final battles. Ensure that your party members are well-equipped with powerful weapons, armor, and consumables. Consider bringing characters with high Charisma or spellcasting abilities to assist with skill checks and dialogue options. Additionally, plan your combat tactics carefully, as the final battles can be intense and require strategic thinking.
From a D&D rules perspective, the mechanics of controlling the Netherbrain align with the concept of Dominate Monster, a high-level spell that allows a caster to take control of a powerful creature. The Crown of Karsus acts as a focus for this control, amplifying the Absolute's influence over the Netherbrain. Understanding these rules can help you make informed decisions and anticipate the consequences of your actions.
In specific scenarios, you may encounter resistance from factions or characters who oppose the Absolute's domination. For example, the Githyanki, who have their own agenda regarding the Netherbrain, may challenge your decision. Similarly, companions like Lae'zel or Shadowheart may have personal stakes in the outcome, leading to potential conflicts. Navigating these scenarios requires careful consideration of your relationships and the broader implications of your choices.
Ultimately, letting the Absolute control the Netherbrain leads to a dark and oppressive ending where the world falls under the Absolute's dominion. This choice reflects a willingness to embrace power and control at the expense of freedom and morality. It is a path that challenges your character's values and the bonds you have formed throughout your journey, making it one of the most impactful decisions in Baldur's Gate 3.