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

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a key figure in the story, particularly in the later stages of the game. The Emperor is a Mind Flayer who plays a significant role in the narrative, and one of the pivotal decisions you can make involves allowing the Emperor to control the Netherbrain. This choice has profound implications for the story and the ending you experience. Here is a detailed explanation of how this scenario unfolds, the mechanics involved, and the strategies you can use to navigate this decision.

To reach the point where you can let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, you must first progress through the main story. This involves completing key quests such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Absolute, and gathering allies for the final confrontation. The Emperor will guide you through much of this, offering advice and assistance. As you progress, you will learn more about the Emperor's true nature and motivations. The Emperor is a Mind Flayer, but unlike others of his kind, he has retained his individuality and free will. This makes him a unique ally, but also a potentially dangerous one.

When you reach the final stages of the game, you will face the Netherbrain, a powerful entity that threatens to dominate the world. The Emperor will propose a plan to control the Netherbrain, using its own power against it. This is where the critical decision comes into play. You can choose to trust the Emperor and allow him to take control of the Netherbrain, or you can reject his plan and pursue other options. If you choose to let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, the story will take a specific path.

The mechanics of this choice involve a series of dialogue options and skill checks. When the Emperor presents his plan, you will need to engage in a conversation where you express your willingness to trust him. This may involve Persuasion or Insight checks to ensure that you fully understand his intentions and the risks involved. If you succeed in these checks, the Emperor will proceed with his plan, and you will witness the consequences of his actions.

One important tip is to ensure that your character has high Charisma and proficiency in Persuasion or Insight. This will make it easier to pass the necessary checks and convince the Emperor that you are fully on board with his plan. Additionally, it is crucial to have built a strong relationship with the Emperor throughout the game. This means consistently supporting his decisions and aligning with his goals. A strong relationship will make it more likely that he will trust you and that you will trust him in return.

A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the risks involved in letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain. While the Emperor may seem like a trustworthy ally, his true intentions are complex and not entirely clear. Allowing him to control such a powerful entity could have unforeseen consequences. It is important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and consider whether this is truly the best course of action for your character and the world.

Advanced techniques involve exploring alternative paths and outcomes. For example, you might choose to reject the Emperor's plan and pursue a different strategy for defeating the Netherbrain. This could involve rallying your allies and using their combined strength to overcome the threat. Alternatively, you might seek out other powerful entities or artifacts that can help you in the final battle. Each choice will lead to a different ending, so it is worth exploring multiple options to see how the story can unfold.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, the Emperor's ability to control the Netherbrain is rooted in the lore of Mind Flayers and their psionic powers. Mind Flayers are known for their ability to dominate and control other creatures, and the Emperor's plan leverages this ability on a grand scale. The Netherbrain, being a powerful psionic entity, is a formidable opponent, but the Emperor's unique nature gives him the potential to overcome it. This scenario reflects the high-stakes, morally complex decisions that are a hallmark of Dungeons & Dragons storytelling.

Specific examples and scenarios include the final confrontation with the Netherbrain. If you choose to let the Emperor control it, you will witness a dramatic sequence where he uses his powers to dominate the entity. This will lead to a specific ending where the Emperor becomes the new ruler of the Netherbrain, potentially reshaping the world according to his vision. The exact outcome will depend on your previous choices and the relationships you have built with other characters.

In conclusion, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a significant decision in Baldur's Gate 3 that requires careful consideration. The mechanics involve dialogue options and skill checks, and the outcome depends on your relationship with the Emperor and your ability to navigate the complex narrative. By understanding the risks and benefits, and by preparing your character accordingly, you can make an informed choice that shapes the story in a meaningful way.