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

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a key character who plays a significant role in the story, especially in Act 3. The Elder Brain is a powerful entity that serves as the central antagonist, controlling the Mind Flayers and the Absolute. The decision to let the Emperor consume the Elder Brain is a pivotal moment that can drastically alter the course of the game. Here is a detailed explanation of how this choice unfolds, the mechanics involved, and the strategies to achieve it.

To begin with, the Emperor is a Mind Flayer who has retained his individuality and is working against the Elder Brain. Throughout the game, the Emperor assists the player by providing guidance and protection against the Mind Flayers. However, his true intentions are revealed in Act 3, where he proposes a plan to consume the Elder Brain to gain ultimate power. This decision is not straightforward and requires careful consideration of the consequences.

The mechanics of this choice involve a series of dialogue options and story progression. In Act 3, you will encounter the Emperor in the Astral Plane, where he will reveal his plan to consume the Elder Brain. To proceed with this choice, you must agree to his proposal during the dialogue. This will trigger a sequence where the Emperor attempts to dominate the Elder Brain. The success of this attempt depends on your previous choices and the strength of your relationship with the Emperor.

Step-by-step instructions to achieve this outcome are as follows. First, ensure that you have built a strong relationship with the Emperor throughout the game. This involves siding with him in key decisions and trusting his guidance. In Act 3, when you reach the Astral Plane, engage in dialogue with the Emperor and express your support for his plan. This will lead to a cutscene where the Emperor attempts to consume the Elder Brain. If successful, the Emperor will gain control over the Elder Brain, altering the game's ending.

Important tips and considerations include understanding the moral implications of this choice. Allowing the Emperor to consume the Elder Brain grants him immense power, which could have unforeseen consequences. Additionally, this choice may affect your relationships with other characters, especially those who distrust the Emperor. It is crucial to weigh the potential benefits and risks before making this decision.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting to build a strong relationship with the Emperor. If your relationship is weak, the Emperor may fail to dominate the Elder Brain, leading to a different outcome. Another mistake is not considering the long-term consequences of this choice, as it can significantly impact the game's ending and your companions' fates.

Advanced techniques or optimizations involve maximizing your influence over the Emperor. This can be achieved by consistently supporting his decisions and completing quests that align with his goals. Additionally, having a high Charisma score can improve your chances of convincing the Emperor to trust you, making it easier to achieve this outcome.

Related D&D rules and mechanics include the concept of Mind Flayer domination and the Elder Brain's influence. In D&D lore, Mind Flayers are known for their psionic abilities and their ability to dominate other creatures. The Elder Brain is the central hive mind that controls all Mind Flayers, making it a formidable opponent. The Emperor's attempt to consume the Elder Brain is a high-stakes maneuver that relies on his psionic strength and your support.

Specific examples and scenarios include the final confrontation in the Astral Plane. Here, the Emperor will reveal his true intentions and propose his plan. If you have built a strong relationship with him, he will trust you and proceed with the attempt. However, if your relationship is strained, he may hesitate or fail, leading to a different outcome. This moment is a culmination of your choices throughout the game, highlighting the importance of your decisions and their impact on the story.

In conclusion, allowing the Emperor to consume the Elder Brain in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3 is a complex and impactful decision. It requires careful consideration of the mechanics, relationship building, and the potential consequences. By following the strategies and tips outlined above, you can navigate this choice and shape the game's narrative according to your preferences.