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

In Baldur's Gate 3, the Emperor is a mysterious and powerful figure who plays a significant role in the game's narrative. One of the key decisions you can make involves allowing the Emperor to control the githyanki, a race of fierce and disciplined warriors. This choice has profound implications for the story, your companions, and the world at large. Here is a detailed explanation of how this scenario unfolds, the mechanics involved, and the strategies you can use to navigate this decision.

To begin with, the Emperor is a mind flayer, a creature known for its psionic abilities and its capacity to dominate the minds of others. The githyanki, on the other hand, are a race that has long been at war with mind flayers, making the idea of the Emperor controlling them particularly significant. The decision to allow the Emperor to control the githyanki typically arises during the later stages of the game, when you are faced with critical choices that will determine the fate of the world and your party.

The mechanics of this choice are rooted in the game's dialogue and decision-making systems. When the opportunity presents itself, you will be given the option to either support the Emperor's plan to control the githyanki or to oppose it. This choice is influenced by your previous interactions with the Emperor and your overall alignment with his goals. If you have built a strong relationship with the Emperor and have consistently supported his plans, he will be more likely to trust you and seek your approval for this action.

To achieve this outcome, you need to follow a specific path in the game. First, you must ensure that you have a good relationship with the Emperor. This involves making choices that align with his interests and showing a willingness to work with him. Throughout the game, you will encounter several key moments where you can either support or oppose the Emperor. These moments include decisions about how to handle the tadpole in your brain, whether to trust the Emperor's guidance, and how to deal with other mind flayers you encounter.

Once you have established a strong relationship with the Emperor, you will reach a point in the story where he proposes the idea of controlling the githyanki. At this juncture, you will need to choose whether to support his plan. If you agree, the Emperor will use his psionic powers to dominate the githyanki, effectively turning them into his servants. This will have significant consequences for the game's narrative, as the githyanki are a powerful force in the world, and their subjugation will shift the balance of power.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind when making this decision. First, consider the impact on your companions. Some of your party members, particularly those with strong moral convictions, may disapprove of the Emperor's actions. This could lead to tension within the group and potentially even cause some companions to leave your party. Additionally, think about the long-term consequences of allowing the Emperor to control the githyanki. While this may provide a short-term advantage, it could also lead to unforeseen complications later in the game.

Common mistakes to avoid include making hasty decisions without considering the broader implications. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each choice and to think about how it will affect your party and the world. Additionally, be mindful of your character's alignment and how it aligns with the Emperor's goals. If your character is morally opposed to mind control and domination, allowing the Emperor to control the githyanki may not be the best choice.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve carefully managing your relationships with both the Emperor and your companions. By balancing your support for the Emperor with the needs and desires of your party, you can navigate this decision in a way that minimizes negative consequences. Additionally, consider the role-playing aspects of this choice. Think about how your character would react to the idea of controlling the githyanki and make a decision that aligns with their personality and values.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, the concept of mind control and domination is a key element of the game. In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, mind flayers have the ability to use psionic powers to dominate the minds of others. This is reflected in Baldur's Gate 3 through the Emperor's actions and the choices you make. Understanding these mechanics can help you make more informed decisions and better navigate the game's narrative.

Specific examples and scenarios include moments where the Emperor's influence is particularly strong. For instance, during a critical encounter with the githyanki, the Emperor may offer to use his powers to subjugate them. If you agree, you will witness the githyanki falling under his control, which can dramatically alter the course of the battle and the story. Conversely, if you oppose the Emperor, you may find yourself facing a more challenging situation, as the githyanki remain free and potentially hostile.

In conclusion, allowing the Emperor to control the githyanki in Baldur's Gate 3 is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the mechanics involved, managing your relationships, and thinking about the long-term consequences, you can make a choice that aligns with your character's goals and values. Whether you support the Emperor or oppose him, this decision will have a lasting impact on the game's narrative and your party's journey.