What happens if I side with the Absolute in the final battle of Act 3 in Baldur's Gate 3?

Siding with the Absolute in the final battle of Act 3 in Baldur's Gate 3 is a significant narrative choice that drastically alters the outcome of the game. This decision is tied to the overarching conflict between the forces of the Absolute, a powerful entity seeking to dominate the world, and the various factions and characters resisting its influence. Choosing to side with the Absolute means aligning yourself with its goals, which can lead to a darker, more oppressive ending for the world of Baldur's Gate. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of what happens and how to achieve this outcome.

To side with the Absolute, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the climactic moments of Act 3. This involves completing key quests, such as dealing with the Netherbrain, the Elder Brain, and the various factions vying for control. The final battle takes place in the heart of Baldur's Gate, where you will face off against powerful enemies and make critical decisions that determine the fate of the city and its inhabitants.

The mechanics of siding with the Absolute involve a series of dialogue choices and actions during the final confrontation. When you reach the pivotal moment, you will be presented with the option to either resist the Absolute or embrace its power. Choosing to side with the Absolute requires you to make specific dialogue choices that indicate your willingness to submit to its will. This decision is irreversible and will lock you into the corresponding ending.

Step-by-step, hereÔÇÖs how to achieve this outcome. First, ensure that your character has built a strong relationship with the Absolute throughout the game. This can be done by consistently choosing dialogue options that align with the AbsoluteÔÇÖs goals, such as expressing a desire for power or control. During the final battle, when you are given the choice to either destroy the Netherbrain or take control of it, you must choose the latter option. This will trigger a series of events where you assert your dominance over the Absolute, effectively becoming its new leader.

Important tips and considerations include understanding the consequences of your actions. Siding with the Absolute will result in a darker ending where the world falls under its control, and many of your companions may turn against you. ItÔÇÖs crucial to consider how this choice aligns with your characterÔÇÖs motivations and the relationships youÔÇÖve built throughout the game. Additionally, ensure that your party is well-prepared for the final battle, as it will be one of the most challenging encounters in the game.

Common mistakes to avoid include making hasty decisions without fully understanding the implications. The final battle is a high-stakes moment, and choosing to side with the Absolute should be a deliberate and informed decision. Avoid rushing through dialogue options, as this can lead to unintended consequences. ItÔÇÖs also important to ensure that your party is adequately equipped and leveled for the final battle, as failure to do so can result in a game over.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve leveraging your characterÔÇÖs abilities and the strengths of your party members. For example, if you have a character with high Charisma and Persuasion, you can use these skills to influence key NPCs and sway the outcome in your favor. Additionally, consider using powerful spells and abilities that can turn the tide of battle in your favor, such as crowd control spells or high-damage attacks.

Related D&D rules and mechanics include the concept of alignment and moral choices. In Dungeons & Dragons, alignment represents a characterÔÇÖs ethical and moral perspective, ranging from lawful good to chaotic evil. Siding with the Absolute aligns your character with a more evil or neutral alignment, depending on your previous choices. This decision also ties into the gameÔÇÖs implementation of the D&D 5E rules, where player choices have significant narrative and mechanical consequences.

Specific examples and scenarios include interactions with key characters such as the Dream Visitor, who may attempt to dissuade you from siding with the Absolute. Additionally, your companions may react strongly to your decision, with some choosing to leave your party or even turn against you. For instance, characters like Shadowheart or LaeÔÇÖzel, who have their own personal quests and motivations, may find your choice to side with the Absolute irreconcilable with their goals.

In conclusion, siding with the Absolute in the final battle of Act 3 is a complex and impactful decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. By understanding the mechanics, making informed choices, and optimizing your partyÔÇÖs abilities, you can achieve this outcome and experience one of the gameÔÇÖs darker endings. Remember to weigh the consequences of your actions and consider how this choice aligns with your characterÔÇÖs journey throughout BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3.