What are the consequences of killing the Absolute in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Absolute is a central figure in the game's narrative, representing a powerful force tied to the mind flayers and the tadpole infection plaguing the player and their companions. Killing the Absolute in Act 3 is a pivotal moment that significantly impacts the story, the world, and the characters. The consequences of this action are far-reaching and depend on the choices you make leading up to and during this event. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of what happens and how to approach this critical moment.

To kill the Absolute, you must first progress through the main story in Act 3, which involves uncovering the truth about the Absolute and its connection to the mind flayers. This requires completing key quests, such as investigating the cult of the Absolute, gathering allies, and confronting the Elder Brain, which is the true source of the AbsoluteÔÇÖs power. The final confrontation takes place in the climactic battle against the Elder Brain, where you must destroy it to end the AbsoluteÔÇÖs influence.

The mechanics of this battle are complex and require careful planning. The Elder Brain is a formidable enemy with high health, powerful psychic attacks, and the ability to summon reinforcements. To succeed, you need a well-balanced party with strong damage dealers, healers, and crowd control specialists. Characters like Gale, who can cast high-level spells, or LaeÔÇÖzel, who excels in melee combat, are particularly useful. Additionally, having a cleric or paladin for healing and buffs is crucial.

Step-by-step, the battle involves several phases. First, you must fight your way through the Elder BrainÔÇÖs minions, including mind flayers and other creatures under its control. Use area-of-effect spells like Fireball or Spirit Guardians to deal with groups of enemies efficiently. Once you reach the Elder Brain, focus on dealing as much damage as possible while managing its psychic attacks. The Elder Brain can dominate your characters, turning them against your party, so having spells like Protection from Evil and Good or Calm Emotions can help mitigate this.

Important tips include positioning your party strategically to avoid being overwhelmed by the Elder BrainÔÇÖs summons. Use high ground to gain advantage on attacks and keep your ranged characters safe. Consumables like potions of speed or scrolls of haste can give you an edge in the fight. Additionally, make sure to save your most powerful abilities and spells for the final phase of the battle, as the Elder Brain becomes even more dangerous as its health drops.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting to prepare for the Elder BrainÔÇÖs psychic attacks, which can quickly turn the tide of battle if your party members are dominated. Another mistake is spreading your damage too thin by attacking multiple enemies instead of focusing on the Elder Brain. Prioritize taking down the Elder Brain as quickly as possible while managing the adds.

Advanced techniques involve using environmental hazards to your advantage. For example, if the battlefield has explosive barrels or other hazards, you can use them to deal massive damage to the Elder Brain and its minions. Additionally, combining abilities from different characters can create powerful synergies. For instance, a wizard casting Hold Monster on the Elder Brain while a rogue uses Sneak Attack can deal devastating damage.

In terms of D&D rules, the Elder Brain is a CR 14 creature with high intelligence and powerful psychic abilities. Its Mind Blast attack can stun multiple targets, and its Psychic Link ability allows it to dominate creatures. Understanding these abilities and how to counter them is key to winning the fight.

The consequences of killing the Absolute are significant. With the Elder Brain destroyed, the tadpole infection is neutralized, freeing you and your companions from its influence. However, the power vacuum left by the AbsoluteÔÇÖs demise can lead to chaos in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate, with various factions vying for control. Your choices in the aftermath, such as whether to side with certain factions or pursue your own path, will shape the future of the city and its inhabitants.

In summary, killing the Absolute in Act 3 is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that requires careful planning, strategic combat, and thoughtful decision-making. By understanding the mechanics, preparing your party, and making smart choices, you can achieve this pivotal victory and shape the fate of BaldurÔÇÖs Gate.