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 character tied to the Mind Flayer storyline, and the decision to let him control the Netherbrain is one of the most significant choices you can make in the game. This choice occurs during the final stages of the main quest, where you must decide how to deal with the Netherbrain, a powerful entity threatening the world. Letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a morally complex decision with far-reaching consequences. Here is a detailed explanation of how this choice works, the mechanics involved, and what you need to consider.
To let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final confrontation with the Netherbrain. This involves completing key quests such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Absolute cult, and gathering allies for the final battle. Throughout the game, your interactions with the Emperor will shape your relationship with him. The Emperor is a Mind Flayer who claims to be working against the Absolute, but his true intentions are ambiguous. To gain his trust and ensure he can control the Netherbrain, you must align with his goals and avoid antagonizing him.
During the final stages of the game, you will have the option to let the Emperor take control of the Netherbrain. This choice is presented after you defeat the Netherbrain's defenses and reach its core. The Emperor will offer to use his Illithid powers to dominate the Netherbrain, effectively ending the threat it poses. If you agree, the Emperor will take control, and the game will proceed to its conclusion based on this decision. However, this choice comes with significant consequences. The Emperor, as a Mind Flayer, is inherently manipulative and self-serving. By letting him control the Netherbrain, you are essentially giving him immense power, which could lead to unforeseen outcomes.
One important consideration is the Emperor's true nature. Throughout the game, you will encounter hints that the Emperor may not be entirely trustworthy. For example, he manipulates you and your companions to further his own agenda, and his past actions suggest a willingness to sacrifice others for his goals. If you let him control the Netherbrain, you are placing your trust in a being whose motives are unclear. This could lead to a future where the Emperor uses the Netherbrain's power for his own purposes, potentially creating a new threat.
Another factor to consider is the impact on your companions and the world. Some companions, such as Lae'zel and Shadowheart, may have strong opinions about the Emperor and the Mind Flayers. Lae'zel, in particular, is deeply opposed to the Illithid and may react negatively to your decision. Shadowheart, depending on her personal questline, may also have reservations. Additionally, the world at large may suffer if the Emperor's control over the Netherbrain leads to further chaos or tyranny.
To achieve this outcome, you must carefully navigate your interactions with the Emperor. Avoid antagonizing him or questioning his motives too aggressively, as this could lead to him turning against you. Instead, support his plans and show trust in his abilities. This will make him more likely to offer the option to control the Netherbrain. During the final confrontation, choose the dialogue options that align with his goals and express confidence in his ability to handle the Netherbrain.
A common mistake is underestimating the Emperor's influence on the story. Some players may assume that he is a straightforward ally, but his actions and dialogue suggest a more complex character. Failing to consider his true nature could lead to unexpected consequences. Additionally, some players may rush through the final decision without fully understanding the implications. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons of letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain, as this choice will shape the ending of the game.
Advanced techniques involve leveraging your character's abilities and relationships to influence the Emperor. For example, if your character has high Charisma or Persuasion skills, you can use these to negotiate with the Emperor and ensure he remains cooperative. Building strong relationships with your companions can also help, as they may provide valuable insights or support during the final decision. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules related to Mind Flayers and domination can give you a better grasp of the mechanics involved. In D&D, Mind Flayers are known for their psychic abilities and tendency to dominate others, which aligns with the Emperor's actions in the game.
In conclusion, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a high-stakes decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the mechanics, building trust with the Emperor, and weighing the consequences, you can navigate this choice effectively. However, be prepared for the potential fallout, as the Emperor's true intentions may not align with your hopes for the future. This choice exemplifies the complex storytelling and moral dilemmas that make Baldur's Gate 3 a compelling experience.
To let the Emperor control the Netherbrain, you must first progress through the main story until you reach the final confrontation with the Netherbrain. This involves completing key quests such as infiltrating Moonrise Towers, dealing with the Absolute cult, and gathering allies for the final battle. Throughout the game, your interactions with the Emperor will shape your relationship with him. The Emperor is a Mind Flayer who claims to be working against the Absolute, but his true intentions are ambiguous. To gain his trust and ensure he can control the Netherbrain, you must align with his goals and avoid antagonizing him.
During the final stages of the game, you will have the option to let the Emperor take control of the Netherbrain. This choice is presented after you defeat the Netherbrain's defenses and reach its core. The Emperor will offer to use his Illithid powers to dominate the Netherbrain, effectively ending the threat it poses. If you agree, the Emperor will take control, and the game will proceed to its conclusion based on this decision. However, this choice comes with significant consequences. The Emperor, as a Mind Flayer, is inherently manipulative and self-serving. By letting him control the Netherbrain, you are essentially giving him immense power, which could lead to unforeseen outcomes.
One important consideration is the Emperor's true nature. Throughout the game, you will encounter hints that the Emperor may not be entirely trustworthy. For example, he manipulates you and your companions to further his own agenda, and his past actions suggest a willingness to sacrifice others for his goals. If you let him control the Netherbrain, you are placing your trust in a being whose motives are unclear. This could lead to a future where the Emperor uses the Netherbrain's power for his own purposes, potentially creating a new threat.
Another factor to consider is the impact on your companions and the world. Some companions, such as Lae'zel and Shadowheart, may have strong opinions about the Emperor and the Mind Flayers. Lae'zel, in particular, is deeply opposed to the Illithid and may react negatively to your decision. Shadowheart, depending on her personal questline, may also have reservations. Additionally, the world at large may suffer if the Emperor's control over the Netherbrain leads to further chaos or tyranny.
To achieve this outcome, you must carefully navigate your interactions with the Emperor. Avoid antagonizing him or questioning his motives too aggressively, as this could lead to him turning against you. Instead, support his plans and show trust in his abilities. This will make him more likely to offer the option to control the Netherbrain. During the final confrontation, choose the dialogue options that align with his goals and express confidence in his ability to handle the Netherbrain.
A common mistake is underestimating the Emperor's influence on the story. Some players may assume that he is a straightforward ally, but his actions and dialogue suggest a more complex character. Failing to consider his true nature could lead to unexpected consequences. Additionally, some players may rush through the final decision without fully understanding the implications. Take your time to weigh the pros and cons of letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain, as this choice will shape the ending of the game.
Advanced techniques involve leveraging your character's abilities and relationships to influence the Emperor. For example, if your character has high Charisma or Persuasion skills, you can use these to negotiate with the Emperor and ensure he remains cooperative. Building strong relationships with your companions can also help, as they may provide valuable insights or support during the final decision. Additionally, understanding the D&D 5E rules related to Mind Flayers and domination can give you a better grasp of the mechanics involved. In D&D, Mind Flayers are known for their psychic abilities and tendency to dominate others, which aligns with the Emperor's actions in the game.
In conclusion, letting the Emperor control the Netherbrain is a high-stakes decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the mechanics, building trust with the Emperor, and weighing the consequences, you can navigate this choice effectively. However, be prepared for the potential fallout, as the Emperor's true intentions may not align with your hopes for the future. This choice exemplifies the complex storytelling and moral dilemmas that make Baldur's Gate 3 a compelling experience.