What happens if I let the Emperor take control of the Absolute in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a key figure tied to the Mind Flayer colony and the Absolute, the central antagonistic force in the game. Allowing the Emperor to take control of the Absolute is one of the major story choices you can make, and it has significant consequences for the narrative and the world. This choice is part of the game's endgame, and it requires careful consideration of the story, your character's motivations, and the potential outcomes.

To let the Emperor take control of the Absolute, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final act. This involves completing key quests, such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Githyanki Creche, and uncovering the truth about the Mind Flayer colony. Throughout the game, you will encounter the Emperor in various forms, and your interactions with them will shape your relationship. The Emperor is a complex character who presents themselves as an ally, but their true intentions are ambiguous, and their connection to the Mind Flayers makes them a morally gray figure.

When you reach the final stages of the game, you will face a critical decision regarding the Absolute. The Emperor will offer you a choice: allow them to take control of the Absolute, or reject their plan and pursue another path. If you choose to let the Emperor take control, you are essentially siding with them and trusting their vision for the future. This decision is influenced by your previous interactions with the Emperor, as well as your character's alignment and personal beliefs.

To achieve this outcome, you must ensure that you maintain a positive relationship with the Emperor throughout the game. This involves making choices that align with their goals, such as resisting the influence of the Absolute and supporting their efforts to undermine the Mind Flayer colony. You should also avoid actions that would alienate the Emperor, such as openly defying them or siding with their enemies. Building trust with the Emperor is crucial, as it will make them more likely to offer you the option to let them take control of the Absolute.

When the moment of decision arrives, you will need to carefully consider the implications of your choice. Allowing the Emperor to take control of the Absolute means that they will wield immense power, potentially reshaping the world according to their vision. This could lead to a future where the Mind Flayers dominate, or it could result in a more balanced and controlled use of the Absolute's power. The outcome is uncertain, and it depends on how you interpret the Emperor's intentions and the broader context of the story.

One important tip is to pay close attention to the Emperor's dialogue and actions throughout the game. They often provide hints about their true nature and goals, and these clues can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, consider the perspectives of your companions, as they may have strong opinions about the Emperor and the Absolute. Some companions may support the Emperor's plan, while others may vehemently oppose it. Your relationships with your companions can influence the final outcome, so it is important to balance their needs with your own goals.

A common mistake to avoid is making hasty decisions without fully understanding the consequences. The choice to let the Emperor take control of the Absolute is a major turning point in the story, and it can have far-reaching effects on the game world and your character's fate. Take the time to explore all available options and consider the potential outcomes before committing to a path.

Advanced techniques involve leveraging your character's abilities and alignment to influence the Emperor's trust. For example, if you are playing a character with high Charisma and Persuasion skills, you may be able to convince the Emperor of your loyalty and secure their cooperation. Similarly, if your character has a strong moral compass, you can use your convictions to guide your interactions with the Emperor and shape their perception of you.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, the Emperor's ability to control the Absolute is tied to their status as a powerful Mind Flayer. Mind Flayers are known for their psionic abilities and their capacity to dominate others, and these traits are reflected in the Emperor's actions and decisions. The game's implementation of these rules adds depth to the story and creates a sense of tension and uncertainty around the Emperor's true intentions.

Specific examples and scenarios include moments where the Emperor tests your loyalty, such as when they ask you to make difficult choices that align with their goals. For instance, you may be asked to sacrifice a companion or make a morally questionable decision in order to prove your commitment to the Emperor's cause. These moments are critical in shaping your relationship with the Emperor and determining whether they will trust you enough to offer you the choice to let them take control of the Absolute.

In conclusion, allowing the Emperor to take control of the Absolute is a complex and morally ambiguous decision that requires careful consideration of the story, your character's motivations, and the potential consequences. By building trust with the Emperor, paying attention to their hints and actions, and balancing the needs of your companions, you can navigate this choice and shape the future of the game world.