What are the best ways to gain approval from Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate 3?

Gaining approval from Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate 3 involves understanding her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. Shadowheart is a cleric of Shar, the goddess of darkness and loss, and her personality reflects her devotion to secrecy, pragmatism, and self-preservation. She values discretion, loyalty to her goddess, and a willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good. To gain her approval, you need to align your choices and actions with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on dialogue choices, story decisions, and actions during gameplay. Each companion has a hidden approval rating that increases or decreases based on how you interact with them and the world around you. ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval can be checked in the character sheet under the ÔÇ£ApprovalÔÇØ tab, though the exact numerical value is hidden. The system is dynamic, meaning that your choices in conversations, quests, and combat can all influence her opinion of you.

To gain ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval, focus on making choices that align with her values. For example, she appreciates when you prioritize practicality over idealism. In dialogue, choose options that emphasize caution, secrecy, and self-interest. For instance, when dealing with the Tieflings and Druids in the Emerald Grove, siding with the Druids or making decisions that avoid unnecessary conflict will earn her approval. She also approves of actions that show a willingness to protect your own interests, such as keeping powerful artifacts for yourself rather than giving them away.

In combat, Shadowheart appreciates tactical and efficient decisions. Using her healing abilities to support the party, positioning her strategically to avoid unnecessary damage, and focusing on eliminating threats quickly will earn her approval. She also values self-preservation, so avoiding reckless behavior in combat, such as charging into danger without a plan, will help maintain her approval.

One common mistake is being too altruistic or idealistic in your choices. Shadowheart is not a fan of self-sacrifice or unnecessary heroism. For example, if you choose to help the Tieflings at the expense of your own safety or resources, she may disapprove. Similarly, being overly trusting or revealing too much information to strangers can lower her approval. ItÔÇÖs important to balance your decisions with a sense of pragmatism and self-interest.

Advanced techniques for gaining ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval include leveraging her personal questline. As you progress through the game, youÔÇÖll encounter opportunities to learn more about her past and her connection to Shar. Supporting her in these moments, such as defending her when others question her faith or helping her recover lost memories, will significantly boost her approval. Additionally, engaging in conversations with her at camp and choosing dialogue options that show understanding and respect for her beliefs will deepen your relationship.

Related D&D rules and mechanics come into play when considering ShadowheartÔÇÖs class and abilities. As a cleric, she has access to healing spells, support abilities, and divine magic. Building a party that complements her strengths, such as including a tanky frontliner to protect her and a damage dealer to take advantage of her buffs, will make her more effective in combat and increase her approval. Additionally, understanding the lore of Shar and the Shadow Weave can provide context for her motivations and help you make choices that align with her worldview.

Specific examples of gaining ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval include siding with her during the confrontation with LaeÔÇÖzel early in the game, choosing to spare the Nightsong when given the opportunity, and supporting her decisions during her personal questline. Conversely, actions that go against her values, such as siding with the Goblins in the Emerald Grove conflict or being overly trusting of strangers, will lower her approval.

In summary, gaining ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval requires a combination of strategic dialogue choices, pragmatic story decisions, and effective combat tactics. By aligning your actions with her values of secrecy, self-preservation, and loyalty to Shar, you can build a strong relationship with her and unlock deeper interactions and potential romance options. Avoiding overly altruistic or reckless behavior, supporting her personal questline, and understanding her class mechanics will further enhance your ability to gain her approval.