What happens if I let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3?
In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a key character tied to the Mind Flayer storyline, and his fate is deeply intertwined with the player's choices. One of the most significant decisions you can make is whether to allow the Emperor to merge with the Netherbrain, a powerful entity that serves as the central antagonist in the game's final act. This choice has profound implications for the story, the fate of the characters, and the world itself. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of what happens if you let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain, along with strategies, tips, and considerations.
To reach the point where you can make this decision, you must progress through the main story, which involves uncovering the truth about the Mind Flayers, the Absolute, and the Netherbrain. The Emperor is revealed to be a Mind Flayer who has retained his individuality and seeks to use the NetherbrainÔÇÖs power to achieve his own goals. As you approach the endgame, you will face a critical choice: either side with the Emperor and allow him to merge with the Netherbrain, or oppose him and seek another solution to the crisis.
If you choose to let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain, the outcome is catastrophic. The Emperor, despite his claims of benevolence, ultimately succumbs to the corrupting influence of the Netherbrain. This results in the Emperor gaining control over the Netherbrain, but instead of using this power for good, he becomes a tyrant. The NetherbrainÔÇÖs influence spreads unchecked, leading to the enslavement of countless minds and the collapse of civilization as you know it. This ending is considered one of the "bad" endings, as it results in widespread destruction and the loss of freedom for the people of Faer├╗n.
To achieve this outcome, you must follow a specific path. First, you need to build a trusting relationship with the Emperor throughout the game. This involves siding with him in key decisions, such as allowing him to manipulate your mind or agreeing to his plans for dealing with the Absolute. During the final confrontation, you will be presented with the option to let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain. Choosing this option triggers a series of events where the Emperor takes control of the Netherbrain, leading to the aforementioned disastrous consequences.
There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, be aware that this choice locks you into a specific ending, so make sure it aligns with your desired narrative outcome. Second, if you are role-playing a character who values power or believes in the EmperorÔÇÖs promises, this choice might make sense. However, if you are playing a morally upright character, this decision will likely conflict with your values. Third, consider the impact on your companions. Some companions, like LaeÔÇÖzel or Shadowheart, may strongly oppose this choice, leading to potential conflicts or even their departure from the party.
Common mistakes to avoid include misunderstanding the EmperorÔÇÖs true intentions. While he presents himself as an ally, his actions often reveal a more self-serving agenda. Trusting him blindly without questioning his motives can lead to unintended consequences. Additionally, failing to prepare for the final battle can make it difficult to reach the point where this choice becomes available. Ensure your party is well-equipped and leveled before the final confrontation.
Advanced techniques involve optimizing your party composition and combat strategies to ensure you can handle the challenges leading up to this decision. For example, having a balanced party with strong spellcasters, melee fighters, and support characters can make the final battles more manageable. Additionally, using crowd control spells and abilities to manage the NetherbrainÔÇÖs minions can give you an edge in combat.
From a D&D rules perspective, the EmperorÔÇÖs ability to merge with the Netherbrain reflects the Mind FlayerÔÇÖs innate psionic powers and their capacity to dominate other creatures. In the tabletop game, Mind Flayers are known for their ability to control minds and manipulate others, which aligns with the EmperorÔÇÖs actions in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3. The Netherbrain itself is a unique creation for the game, representing a heightened version of the Mind Flayer Elder Brain, with even greater psionic abilities.
In summary, allowing the Emperor to merge with the Netherbrain is a choice that leads to a dark and destructive ending. It requires careful consideration of your characterÔÇÖs motivations, the impact on your companions, and the broader consequences for the world. By understanding the mechanics, preparing for the final battles, and making informed decisions, you can navigate this path and experience one of the gameÔÇÖs most dramatic conclusions.
To reach the point where you can make this decision, you must progress through the main story, which involves uncovering the truth about the Mind Flayers, the Absolute, and the Netherbrain. The Emperor is revealed to be a Mind Flayer who has retained his individuality and seeks to use the NetherbrainÔÇÖs power to achieve his own goals. As you approach the endgame, you will face a critical choice: either side with the Emperor and allow him to merge with the Netherbrain, or oppose him and seek another solution to the crisis.
If you choose to let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain, the outcome is catastrophic. The Emperor, despite his claims of benevolence, ultimately succumbs to the corrupting influence of the Netherbrain. This results in the Emperor gaining control over the Netherbrain, but instead of using this power for good, he becomes a tyrant. The NetherbrainÔÇÖs influence spreads unchecked, leading to the enslavement of countless minds and the collapse of civilization as you know it. This ending is considered one of the "bad" endings, as it results in widespread destruction and the loss of freedom for the people of Faer├╗n.
To achieve this outcome, you must follow a specific path. First, you need to build a trusting relationship with the Emperor throughout the game. This involves siding with him in key decisions, such as allowing him to manipulate your mind or agreeing to his plans for dealing with the Absolute. During the final confrontation, you will be presented with the option to let the Emperor merge with the Netherbrain. Choosing this option triggers a series of events where the Emperor takes control of the Netherbrain, leading to the aforementioned disastrous consequences.
There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, be aware that this choice locks you into a specific ending, so make sure it aligns with your desired narrative outcome. Second, if you are role-playing a character who values power or believes in the EmperorÔÇÖs promises, this choice might make sense. However, if you are playing a morally upright character, this decision will likely conflict with your values. Third, consider the impact on your companions. Some companions, like LaeÔÇÖzel or Shadowheart, may strongly oppose this choice, leading to potential conflicts or even their departure from the party.
Common mistakes to avoid include misunderstanding the EmperorÔÇÖs true intentions. While he presents himself as an ally, his actions often reveal a more self-serving agenda. Trusting him blindly without questioning his motives can lead to unintended consequences. Additionally, failing to prepare for the final battle can make it difficult to reach the point where this choice becomes available. Ensure your party is well-equipped and leveled before the final confrontation.
Advanced techniques involve optimizing your party composition and combat strategies to ensure you can handle the challenges leading up to this decision. For example, having a balanced party with strong spellcasters, melee fighters, and support characters can make the final battles more manageable. Additionally, using crowd control spells and abilities to manage the NetherbrainÔÇÖs minions can give you an edge in combat.
From a D&D rules perspective, the EmperorÔÇÖs ability to merge with the Netherbrain reflects the Mind FlayerÔÇÖs innate psionic powers and their capacity to dominate other creatures. In the tabletop game, Mind Flayers are known for their ability to control minds and manipulate others, which aligns with the EmperorÔÇÖs actions in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3. The Netherbrain itself is a unique creation for the game, representing a heightened version of the Mind Flayer Elder Brain, with even greater psionic abilities.
In summary, allowing the Emperor to merge with the Netherbrain is a choice that leads to a dark and destructive ending. It requires careful consideration of your characterÔÇÖs motivations, the impact on your companions, and the broader consequences for the world. By understanding the mechanics, preparing for the final battles, and making informed decisions, you can navigate this path and experience one of the gameÔÇÖs most dramatic conclusions.