What happens if I let the Absolute control the Netherbrain in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3?
In Baldur's Gate 3, the Netherbrain is a central element of the story in Act 3, and the choice to let the Absolute control it is a significant decision that can drastically alter the game's ending. This choice is tied to the overarching narrative involving the Mind Flayers, the Absolute, and the fate of the world. To achieve this outcome, you must navigate a series of complex story decisions and interactions, particularly with the Emperor and Orpheus, two key characters who influence the final act.
To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must first understand the mechanics of the story and the choices that lead to this outcome. The Absolute is a powerful entity that seeks to dominate the world through the Netherbrain, a massive psionic construct that controls the Mind Flayers. Throughout the game, you are presented with opportunities to either resist the Absolute or align with its goals. In Act 3, the climax of the story revolves around the Netherbrain, and your choices determine whether you destroy it, control it, or allow the Absolute to take over.
The first step in this process is to align yourself with the Emperor, the Mind Flayer who has been guiding you throughout the game. The Emperor represents the path of control and domination, and he will encourage you to use the Netherbrain to achieve your goals. To side with the Emperor, you must trust his intentions and follow his guidance during key moments in the story. This includes resisting the urge to free Orpheus, the Githyanki prince who is imprisoned and could potentially disrupt the Emperor's plans. Freeing Orpheus will lead to a different outcome, so it is crucial to avoid this if you want the Absolute to control the Netherbrain.
As you progress through Act 3, you will face several critical decisions that influence the final outcome. One of the most important moments occurs during the confrontation with the Netherbrain. At this point, you will have the option to either destroy the Netherbrain, take control of it yourself, or allow the Absolute to dominate it. To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must choose the option that aligns with the Emperor's goals. This typically involves using the Netherstones, powerful artifacts that grant control over the Netherbrain, to empower the Absolute rather than destroy or seize control of it.
It is important to note that this choice has significant consequences for the world and your companions. Allowing the Absolute to control the Netherbrain will result in a dark ending where the world is plunged into chaos and domination under the Absolute's rule. Your companions may react negatively to this decision, especially those who have been fighting against the Absolute throughout the game. Characters like Lae'zel, who is deeply connected to the Githyanki struggle against the Mind Flayers, may abandon you or even turn against you if you choose this path.
To optimize your chances of achieving this outcome, it is essential to build a character who is aligned with the themes of control and domination. Classes like the Sorcerer, Warlock, or Wizard, which have access to powerful psionic and mind-control abilities, are well-suited for this path. Additionally, focusing on Charisma and Intelligence can help you navigate the dialogue and persuasion checks that may arise during key moments in the story.
One common mistake to avoid is failing to fully commit to the Emperor's guidance. If you waver in your support or make choices that undermine his plans, you may find yourself locked out of the option to let the Absolute control the Netherbrain. It is also important to avoid freeing Orpheus, as this will create a conflict that can derail your path to this ending.
In terms of advanced techniques, you can use your knowledge of the game's mechanics to manipulate the outcome. For example, if you have a high Persuasion skill, you can convince your companions to support your decision, even if they initially oppose it. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules that underpin the game's mechanics can help you make informed decisions during combat and dialogue. For instance, knowing how psionic abilities and mind-control spells work can give you an edge in key encounters.
In conclusion, letting the Absolute control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous choice that requires careful planning and commitment to the Emperor's path. By aligning yourself with the Emperor, avoiding the temptation to free Orpheus, and making the right choices during the final confrontation, you can achieve this dark and impactful ending. However, be prepared for the consequences, as this decision will shape the fate of the world and your relationships with your companions.
To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must first understand the mechanics of the story and the choices that lead to this outcome. The Absolute is a powerful entity that seeks to dominate the world through the Netherbrain, a massive psionic construct that controls the Mind Flayers. Throughout the game, you are presented with opportunities to either resist the Absolute or align with its goals. In Act 3, the climax of the story revolves around the Netherbrain, and your choices determine whether you destroy it, control it, or allow the Absolute to take over.
The first step in this process is to align yourself with the Emperor, the Mind Flayer who has been guiding you throughout the game. The Emperor represents the path of control and domination, and he will encourage you to use the Netherbrain to achieve your goals. To side with the Emperor, you must trust his intentions and follow his guidance during key moments in the story. This includes resisting the urge to free Orpheus, the Githyanki prince who is imprisoned and could potentially disrupt the Emperor's plans. Freeing Orpheus will lead to a different outcome, so it is crucial to avoid this if you want the Absolute to control the Netherbrain.
As you progress through Act 3, you will face several critical decisions that influence the final outcome. One of the most important moments occurs during the confrontation with the Netherbrain. At this point, you will have the option to either destroy the Netherbrain, take control of it yourself, or allow the Absolute to dominate it. To let the Absolute control the Netherbrain, you must choose the option that aligns with the Emperor's goals. This typically involves using the Netherstones, powerful artifacts that grant control over the Netherbrain, to empower the Absolute rather than destroy or seize control of it.
It is important to note that this choice has significant consequences for the world and your companions. Allowing the Absolute to control the Netherbrain will result in a dark ending where the world is plunged into chaos and domination under the Absolute's rule. Your companions may react negatively to this decision, especially those who have been fighting against the Absolute throughout the game. Characters like Lae'zel, who is deeply connected to the Githyanki struggle against the Mind Flayers, may abandon you or even turn against you if you choose this path.
To optimize your chances of achieving this outcome, it is essential to build a character who is aligned with the themes of control and domination. Classes like the Sorcerer, Warlock, or Wizard, which have access to powerful psionic and mind-control abilities, are well-suited for this path. Additionally, focusing on Charisma and Intelligence can help you navigate the dialogue and persuasion checks that may arise during key moments in the story.
One common mistake to avoid is failing to fully commit to the Emperor's guidance. If you waver in your support or make choices that undermine his plans, you may find yourself locked out of the option to let the Absolute control the Netherbrain. It is also important to avoid freeing Orpheus, as this will create a conflict that can derail your path to this ending.
In terms of advanced techniques, you can use your knowledge of the game's mechanics to manipulate the outcome. For example, if you have a high Persuasion skill, you can convince your companions to support your decision, even if they initially oppose it. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules that underpin the game's mechanics can help you make informed decisions during combat and dialogue. For instance, knowing how psionic abilities and mind-control spells work can give you an edge in key encounters.
In conclusion, letting the Absolute control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous choice that requires careful planning and commitment to the Emperor's path. By aligning yourself with the Emperor, avoiding the temptation to free Orpheus, and making the right choices during the final confrontation, you can achieve this dark and impactful ending. However, be prepared for the consequences, as this decision will shape the fate of the world and your relationships with your companions.