What are the best dialogue choices to increase Karlach's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Increasing Karlach's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 involves understanding her personality, values, and the types of decisions she respects. Karlach is a tiefling barbarian with a strong sense of justice, loyalty, and a desire to protect the innocent. She appreciates boldness, honesty, and acts of heroism, but she dislikes deceit, cruelty, and unnecessary violence. To gain her approval, you need to align your dialogue choices and actions with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions resonate with each companion. When you make a choice that a companion agrees with, their approval increases, and when you make a choice they disagree with, their approval decreases. This system is tied to the D&D 5E rules, where alignment and personality traits influence how characters react to different situations. Karlach, being a chaotic good character, values freedom, compassion, and standing up for the underdog.

To increase Karlach's approval, focus on making dialogue choices that reflect bravery, kindness, and a willingness to help others. For example, when encountering the tiefling refugees in the Druid Grove, siding with them and offering assistance will earn her approval. She also appreciates when you stand up to bullies or tyrants, such as confronting Kagha about her harsh treatment of the tieflings. In combat, Karlach respects bold and decisive actions, so taking risks to protect your allies or defeat powerful enemies will also improve her opinion of you.

One effective strategy is to involve Karlach in conversations and decisions where her input can shine. When speaking to NPCs, choose options that allow her to express her opinions, especially when they align with her values. For instance, if you encounter a situation where someone is being oppressed or mistreated, let Karlach take the lead in confronting the aggressor. This not only increases her approval but also strengthens her bond with your character.

It's important to avoid actions that Karlach finds distasteful. She disapproves of unnecessary cruelty, such as harming innocent creatures or exploiting others for personal gain. For example, if you choose to side with the goblins in the Druid Grove conflict, Karlach will strongly disapprove. Similarly, she dislikes deceitful behavior, so lying or manipulating others to achieve your goals will lower her approval. Be mindful of these tendencies when making decisions that affect the story or your interactions with NPCs.

Advanced techniques for increasing Karlach's approval include leveraging her personal quest and backstory. As you progress through the game, you'll learn more about her past and the challenges she faces. Supporting her in these moments, such as helping her confront her former allies or seeking a cure for her infernal engine, will significantly boost her approval. Additionally, engaging in romantic dialogue options, if you're pursuing a romance with her, can further deepen your relationship and increase her approval.

Common mistakes to avoid include making decisions that prioritize personal gain over moral integrity. Karlach values selflessness and heroism, so actions that seem selfish or cowardly will lower her approval. For example, if you choose to abandon a group of refugees to save yourself, she will disapprove. Similarly, avoid making promises you don't intend to keep, as Karlach values honesty and trust.

In summary, increasing Karlach's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires aligning your actions and dialogue choices with her values of bravery, compassion, and justice. Support the tiefling refugees, stand up to bullies, and make bold decisions in combat. Avoid cruelty, deceit, and selfishness, and involve her in conversations where her input can shine. By understanding her personality and leveraging her personal quest, you can build a strong relationship with Karlach and earn her loyalty and approval.