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

In Baldur's Gate 3, the decision to let the Emperor control the Netherbrain in Act 3 is one of the most significant choices you can make, with far-reaching consequences for the story and the world. This choice is tied to the main questline and involves complex interactions with the Emperor, a key character who plays a pivotal role in the narrative. To understand how to achieve this outcome, it is important to first grasp the context and mechanics of the situation.

The Emperor is a Mind Flayer who has been guiding you throughout the game, often through dreams and telepathic communication. As you progress through Act 3, you will reach a critical point where you must decide how to deal with the Netherbrain, a powerful entity that threatens to dominate all of Faer├╗n. The Emperor will present you with the option to allow him to control the Netherbrain, arguing that this is the only way to prevent widespread destruction and chaos. This choice is not straightforward, as it involves moral and ethical considerations, as well as potential risks.

To let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, you must first ensure that you have built a strong relationship with him. This involves making choices throughout the game that align with his goals and trusting his guidance. During key moments in the story, such as when he reveals his true nature as a Mind Flayer, you should avoid antagonizing him or questioning his motives too harshly. Building trust with the Emperor is crucial, as it will influence his willingness to work with you and your party.

When you reach the final stages of Act 3, you will be presented with a choice regarding the Netherbrain. The Emperor will propose that he take control of it, using his abilities as a Mind Flayer to dominate the entity and prevent it from causing further harm. To proceed with this option, you must agree to his plan and support him in the final battle. This will involve a series of challenging combat encounters, as you and your party fight your way to the Netherbrain while the Emperor works to establish control.

One important tip is to ensure that your party is well-prepared for the final battle. This means having a balanced group with strong combat abilities, as well as access to powerful spells and abilities that can help you overcome the Netherbrain's defenses. It is also important to manage your resources carefully, as the final battle can be long and grueling. Make sure to rest and replenish your spells and abilities before engaging in the final confrontation.

A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the Netherbrain's power. The entity is incredibly strong and has a variety of abilities that can quickly overwhelm an unprepared party. Make sure to focus on crowd control and damage mitigation, using spells and abilities that can protect your party and weaken the Netherbrain's attacks. Additionally, be mindful of the Emperor's role in the battle. While he will be working to control the Netherbrain, he is still vulnerable to attacks and may require your assistance to stay alive.

Advanced techniques for this scenario include using specific spells and abilities that can disrupt the Netherbrain's control over its minions. For example, spells like Counterspell and Dispel Magic can be used to negate the Netherbrain's abilities, while abilities like Stunning Strike or Hold Monster can incapacitate key enemies. Additionally, consider using items and equipment that provide resistance to psychic damage, as the Netherbrain's attacks are primarily of this type.

From a D&D rules perspective, the mechanics of controlling the Netherbrain involve the use of powerful psionic abilities, which are a hallmark of Mind Flayers. The Emperor's ability to dominate the Netherbrain is based on his high Intelligence and Charisma scores, as well as his proficiency in psionic powers. In the game, this is represented by a series of skill checks and combat encounters that test your party's ability to support the Emperor in his efforts.

In terms of story consequences, allowing the Emperor to control the Netherbrain will lead to a specific ending where he becomes the dominant force in Faer├╗n. This outcome has significant implications for the world and its inhabitants, as the Emperor's rule may not be entirely benevolent. It is important to consider the long-term effects of this choice, as it will shape the future of the game's world and the fate of your party.

In summary, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and morally ambiguous decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. By building a strong relationship with the Emperor, preparing your party for the final battle, and using advanced combat techniques, you can achieve this outcome and shape the future of Faer├╗n. However, it is important to weigh the potential consequences of this choice and consider how it aligns with your character's values and goals.