What are the consequences of letting the Emperor control the Elder Brain in the final battle of Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, the final battle against the Elder Brain is a pivotal moment that determines the fate of the world and the characters involved. One of the key decisions you can make is whether to allow the Emperor, a powerful mind flayer, to control the Elder Brain. This choice has significant consequences for the story, your companions, and the world at large. Here is a detailed explanation of the mechanics, strategies, and considerations involved in making this decision.

To let the Emperor control the Elder Brain, you must first reach the final stages of the game. This involves progressing through the main questline, making critical decisions along the way, and ensuring that the Emperor remains your ally. The Emperor is a complex character who can either be a trusted ally or a manipulative adversary, depending on your choices. To keep the Emperor on your side, you need to trust him and follow his guidance throughout the game. This includes siding with him in key moments, such as when he advises you to use the tadpoles to gain power or when he reveals his true nature as a mind flayer.

Once you reach the final battle, the Emperor will present you with the option to let him control the Elder Brain. This decision is not to be taken lightly, as it has far-reaching consequences. If you choose to let the Emperor control the Elder Brain, he will use his psionic powers to dominate the Elder Brain and bend it to his will. This effectively ends the immediate threat posed by the Elder Brain, but it also places immense power in the hands of the Emperor. The world is saved from destruction, but it is now under the control of a powerful mind flayer who may have his own agenda.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when making this decision. First, consider the nature of the Emperor. Throughout the game, the Emperor has shown himself to be a pragmatic and self-serving character. While he may have helped you and your companions, his ultimate goal is to ensure his own survival and dominance. Allowing him to control the Elder Brain means giving him the power to shape the world according to his desires, which may not align with your own values or the well-being of others.

Second, think about the impact on your companions. Some companions, such as Lae'zel and Shadowheart, have strong opinions about mind flayers and the use of psionic power. Allowing the Emperor to control the Elder Brain may alienate these companions or lead to conflicts within your party. It is important to consider how this decision will affect your relationships with your companions and whether you are willing to risk losing their trust or support.

Third, consider the long-term consequences for the world. While the immediate threat of the Elder Brain is neutralized, the world is now under the control of a powerful and potentially dangerous entity. The Emperor may use his newfound power to impose his will on others, leading to a new era of tyranny and oppression. This could have devastating effects on the world and its inhabitants, and it is important to weigh these potential outcomes against the immediate benefits of stopping the Elder Brain.

Common mistakes to avoid include making this decision without fully understanding the implications or without considering the perspectives of your companions. It is also important to avoid rushing into this decision without exploring all available options. There may be other ways to defeat the Elder Brain that do not involve giving the Emperor control, and it is worth considering these alternatives before making your final choice.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve carefully managing your relationships with the Emperor and your companions throughout the game. By building trust with the Emperor and maintaining strong relationships with your companions, you can navigate this decision with greater confidence and clarity. It is also important to consider the role of your character's alignment and personal values in this decision. A character who values freedom and autonomy may be less willing to give the Emperor control, while a character who prioritizes survival and pragmatism may see this as a necessary sacrifice.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, the concept of mind flayers and psionic power is deeply rooted in the lore of Dungeons & Dragons. Mind flayers, or illithids, are known for their psionic abilities and their desire to dominate and control others. The Emperor's ability to control the Elder Brain is a reflection of these traits, and it is important to understand the implications of such power within the context of the game's narrative and mechanics.

Specific examples and scenarios include moments where the Emperor's true nature is revealed and where he offers to help you in exchange for your trust. These moments are critical in shaping your relationship with the Emperor and in determining whether you are willing to let him control the Elder Brain. By paying close attention to these interactions and considering the broader implications of your choices, you can make a decision that aligns with your character's values and goals.

In conclusion, allowing the Emperor to control the Elder Brain in the final battle of Baldur's Gate 3 is a decision with significant consequences. It requires careful consideration of the Emperor's nature, the impact on your companions, and the long-term effects on the world. By understanding the mechanics involved, considering the perspectives of your companions, and weighing the potential outcomes, you can make an informed decision that reflects your character's values and the story you want to tell.