What happens if I let the Emperor control the Netherbrain in Baldur's Gate 3?
In Baldur's Gate 3, the decision to let the Emperor control the Netherbrain is one of the most significant choices you can make in the game. This choice occurs near the end of the story, during the climax of the main questline. The Netherbrain is a powerful entity that has been manipulating events throughout the game, and the Emperor, a mind flayer who has been both an ally and a source of tension, offers a solution to control it. However, this decision has far-reaching consequences for the story, your companions, and the world of Baldur's Gate.
To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the point where you confront the Netherbrain. This involves completing key quests such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Absolute, and gathering allies for the final battle. Along the way, you will have numerous interactions with the Emperor, who will reveal more about his true nature and his plans. It is crucial to maintain a cooperative relationship with the Emperor, as this will influence his willingness to work with you and your ability to trust him.
When you finally reach the Netherbrain, you will be presented with a choice: destroy the Netherbrain, dominate it yourself, or allow the Emperor to control it. To let the Emperor take control, you must choose the dialogue option that supports his plan. This decision is not made lightly, as it involves placing immense power in the hands of a being who has shown both benevolence and manipulation. The Emperor will use the Netherbrain to reshape the world according to his vision, which may or may not align with your own ideals.
One important consideration is the impact this choice will have on your companions. Some companions, like Lae'zel and Shadowheart, may have strong reactions to this decision, especially if they have personal stakes in the outcome. For example, Lae'zel, who is deeply connected to the Githyanki conflict, may view the Emperor's control as a betrayal of her people's struggle. Shadowheart, on the other hand, may be more concerned with the broader implications of allowing a mind flayer to wield such power. It is essential to consider how your companions will react and whether their loyalty will be affected by your choice.
Another factor to consider is the potential long-term consequences of the Emperor's control. While he may promise to use the Netherbrain for good, there is always the risk that his true intentions are more sinister. The game does not provide a clear-cut answer to this, leaving it up to the player to decide whether the Emperor can be trusted. This ambiguity adds depth to the decision, as you must weigh the immediate benefits of controlling the Netherbrain against the potential dangers of giving the Emperor such power.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, this choice is influenced by your previous interactions with the Emperor. If you have consistently supported his plans and built a rapport with him, he will be more likely to follow through on his promises. However, if you have been distrustful or antagonistic, he may act in his own self-interest, potentially leading to a different outcome. It is important to pay attention to the dialogue options and make choices that align with your desired outcome.
One common mistake players make is underestimating the importance of their relationship with the Emperor. While it may be tempting to view him as a mere tool or a means to an end, the Emperor is a complex character with his own motivations and desires. Ignoring his perspective or treating him as an enemy can lead to unintended consequences, such as him turning against you or pursuing his own agenda. To avoid this, it is crucial to engage with the Emperor's storyline and make decisions that reflect your understanding of his character.
Advanced techniques for this choice involve leveraging your knowledge of the game's lore and mechanics. For example, if you have a character with high Charisma and Persuasion skills, you may be able to influence the Emperor's decisions more effectively. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules that underpin the game can help you anticipate the Emperor's actions and plan accordingly. For instance, mind flayers are known for their psychic abilities and manipulation, so being prepared for potential mind control or deception can give you an edge.
In conclusion, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a pivotal decision in Baldur's Gate 3 that requires careful consideration of the story, your companions, and the potential consequences. By building a strong relationship with the Emperor, understanding the game's mechanics, and weighing the risks and benefits, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your vision for the game's outcome. Whether you choose to trust the Emperor or pursue a different path, this decision will shape the fate of Baldur's Gate and leave a lasting impact on your journey.
To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the point where you confront the Netherbrain. This involves completing key quests such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Absolute, and gathering allies for the final battle. Along the way, you will have numerous interactions with the Emperor, who will reveal more about his true nature and his plans. It is crucial to maintain a cooperative relationship with the Emperor, as this will influence his willingness to work with you and your ability to trust him.
When you finally reach the Netherbrain, you will be presented with a choice: destroy the Netherbrain, dominate it yourself, or allow the Emperor to control it. To let the Emperor take control, you must choose the dialogue option that supports his plan. This decision is not made lightly, as it involves placing immense power in the hands of a being who has shown both benevolence and manipulation. The Emperor will use the Netherbrain to reshape the world according to his vision, which may or may not align with your own ideals.
One important consideration is the impact this choice will have on your companions. Some companions, like Lae'zel and Shadowheart, may have strong reactions to this decision, especially if they have personal stakes in the outcome. For example, Lae'zel, who is deeply connected to the Githyanki conflict, may view the Emperor's control as a betrayal of her people's struggle. Shadowheart, on the other hand, may be more concerned with the broader implications of allowing a mind flayer to wield such power. It is essential to consider how your companions will react and whether their loyalty will be affected by your choice.
Another factor to consider is the potential long-term consequences of the Emperor's control. While he may promise to use the Netherbrain for good, there is always the risk that his true intentions are more sinister. The game does not provide a clear-cut answer to this, leaving it up to the player to decide whether the Emperor can be trusted. This ambiguity adds depth to the decision, as you must weigh the immediate benefits of controlling the Netherbrain against the potential dangers of giving the Emperor such power.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, this choice is influenced by your previous interactions with the Emperor. If you have consistently supported his plans and built a rapport with him, he will be more likely to follow through on his promises. However, if you have been distrustful or antagonistic, he may act in his own self-interest, potentially leading to a different outcome. It is important to pay attention to the dialogue options and make choices that align with your desired outcome.
One common mistake players make is underestimating the importance of their relationship with the Emperor. While it may be tempting to view him as a mere tool or a means to an end, the Emperor is a complex character with his own motivations and desires. Ignoring his perspective or treating him as an enemy can lead to unintended consequences, such as him turning against you or pursuing his own agenda. To avoid this, it is crucial to engage with the Emperor's storyline and make decisions that reflect your understanding of his character.
Advanced techniques for this choice involve leveraging your knowledge of the game's lore and mechanics. For example, if you have a character with high Charisma and Persuasion skills, you may be able to influence the Emperor's decisions more effectively. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules that underpin the game can help you anticipate the Emperor's actions and plan accordingly. For instance, mind flayers are known for their psychic abilities and manipulation, so being prepared for potential mind control or deception can give you an edge.
In conclusion, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a pivotal decision in Baldur's Gate 3 that requires careful consideration of the story, your companions, and the potential consequences. By building a strong relationship with the Emperor, understanding the game's mechanics, and weighing the risks and benefits, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your vision for the game's outcome. Whether you choose to trust the Emperor or pursue a different path, this decision will shape the fate of Baldur's Gate and leave a lasting impact on your journey.