How do I start Astarion's romance in Baldur's Gate 3?

To start Astarion's romance in Baldur's Gate 3, you need to focus on building a strong relationship with him through dialogue choices, actions, and gaining his approval. Astarion is a complex character with a dark and mysterious past, and his romance path requires careful attention to his preferences and personality. Here is a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, you need to recruit Astarion. You can find him early in the game near the Nautiloid crash site. He will approach you and ask for help, and you can choose to let him join your party. Once he is in your party, you can start building your relationship with him.

Astarion's approval is influenced by your choices and actions throughout the game. He tends to approve of selfish, cunning, and morally ambiguous decisions. For example, he likes it when you prioritize your own survival and interests over others, and he appreciates clever and manipulative behavior. On the other hand, he disapproves of overly altruistic or lawful good actions. Pay attention to his reactions during conversations and events, as this will give you clues about what he likes and dislikes.

To start the romance, you need to gain enough approval from Astarion. This can be done by making choices that align with his preferences. For example, during the encounter with the goblins at the Druid Grove, siding with the goblins or taking a more ruthless approach will earn his approval. Similarly, during the confrontation with Auntie Ethel, choosing to let her go in exchange for power will also please him.

Once you have gained enough approval, you will have the opportunity to deepen your relationship with Astarion. This usually happens during the camp scenes, where you can have private conversations with your companions. Look for opportunities to flirt with him and express your interest. For example, during the party at the camp after saving the Druid Grove, you can choose to spend time with Astarion and engage in a more intimate conversation.

It is important to note that Astarion's romance is not just about gaining his approval. You also need to respect his boundaries and understand his past. He has a complex history, and pushing him too hard or being too aggressive can backfire. Be patient and let the relationship develop naturally.

One common mistake to avoid is trying to rush the romance. Astarion is not the type of character who will easily open up, and forcing the issue can lead to disapproval or even rejection. Take your time and focus on building a genuine connection with him.

Advanced techniques for optimizing Astarion's romance include paying attention to his personal quest. As you progress through the game, you will learn more about his past and the challenges he faces. Completing his personal quest and helping him resolve his conflicts will significantly boost your relationship with him. This not only increases his approval but also unlocks deeper and more meaningful interactions.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, Astarion's romance is influenced by the approval system, which is a key feature of Baldur's Gate 3. This system is based on the D&D 5E rules, where character relationships are shaped by actions and choices. Understanding these mechanics can help you make better decisions and build stronger relationships with your companions.

Specific examples of scenarios where you can gain Astarion's approval include the encounter with the Gur hunter in the swamp. Choosing to side with Astarion and protect him from the hunter will earn his approval. Similarly, during the confrontation with the hag, choosing to take the deal for power will please him.

In conclusion, starting Astarion's romance in Baldur's Gate 3 requires careful attention to his preferences, building his approval, and respecting his boundaries. By making choices that align with his personality, engaging in meaningful conversations, and completing his personal quest, you can develop a deep and rewarding relationship with him. Remember to be patient and let the romance unfold naturally, and you will be well on your way to winning Astarion's heart.