What happens if I let the Emperor consume the Elder Brain in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a key character tied to the Mind Flayer storyline, and his relationship with the Elder Brain is central to the game's narrative. Allowing the Emperor to consume the Elder Brain is a significant story choice that can drastically alter the game's ending and the fate of the world. This decision is part of the game's branching narrative, and it requires careful consideration of the consequences, as well as understanding the mechanics and story context that lead to this moment.

To achieve this outcome, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final act, where the conflict with the Elder Brain becomes the central focus. The Emperor, who is revealed to be a Mind Flayer, plays a pivotal role in this act. Throughout the game, your interactions with the Emperor will shape his motivations and your relationship with him. To set the stage for him to consume the Elder Brain, you must align yourself with his goals and trust his intentions. This involves making choices that favor his perspective over other factions, such as the Githyanki or the Absolute's forces.

The mechanics of this choice are tied to dialogue and story progression. During the final act, you will confront the Elder Brain in a climactic battle. At this point, the Emperor will present you with the option to allow him to consume the Elder Brain, granting him immense power and control over the Mind Flayer hive mind. This choice is not immediately available; it requires building trust with the Emperor throughout the game. You must consistently support his plans and avoid actions that undermine his authority or reveal his true nature to others.

Step-by-step, here is how to achieve this outcome. First, ensure that you have sided with the Emperor in key moments, such as when he reveals his true form or when he offers to help you resist the Absolute's influence. Avoid antagonizing him or questioning his motives too harshly, as this can lead to him turning against you. Second, during the final confrontation with the Elder Brain, choose dialogue options that express trust in the Emperor and his abilities. This will unlock the option to let him consume the Elder Brain. Finally, confirm your choice when prompted, and the story will proceed with the Emperor taking control of the Elder Brain.

Important tips and considerations include understanding the moral implications of this choice. Allowing the Emperor to consume the Elder Brain means granting a Mind Flayer ultimate power, which could have dire consequences for the world. However, it also offers a unique ending where the Emperor becomes a dominant force, potentially reshaping the world in his image. Consider the long-term effects of this decision and how it aligns with your character's values and goals.

Common mistakes to avoid include antagonizing the Emperor or failing to build trust with him. If you consistently challenge his authority or reveal his secrets to others, he may betray you or refuse to cooperate in the final act. Additionally, rushing through dialogue options without considering their impact can lead to unintended consequences. Take your time to understand the implications of each choice and how they affect your relationship with the Emperor.

Advanced techniques involve optimizing your character build and party composition to handle the final battle effectively. The confrontation with the Elder Brain is one of the most challenging encounters in the game, so ensure your party is well-prepared with strong abilities, equipment, and strategies. Focus on crowd control and damage output to deal with the Elder Brain's minions while protecting the Emperor.

Related D&D rules and mechanics include the concept of Mind Flayer domination and hive mind control. In D&D lore, Mind Flayers are powerful psionic beings capable of controlling others through their hive mind. The Emperor's ability to consume the Elder Brain reflects this lore, as he gains control over the entire Mind Flayer network. Understanding these rules can provide deeper insight into the story and the implications of your choices.

Specific examples and scenarios include moments where the Emperor offers to help you resist the Absolute's influence. If you accept his assistance and trust his guidance, you will strengthen your bond with him, making it more likely that he will propose consuming the Elder Brain. Conversely, if you reject his help or expose his true nature to your companions, he may become hostile or abandon you, closing off this story path.

In summary, allowing the Emperor to consume the Elder Brain is a complex and morally ambiguous choice that requires careful planning and trust-building throughout the game. By aligning yourself with his goals, preparing for the final battle, and understanding the consequences, you can achieve this unique ending and explore the full depth of Baldur's Gate 3's narrative.