How do I increase Shadowheart's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Increasing Shadowheart's approval 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 a certain level of ruthlessness. To gain her approval, you need to align your choices and actions with these traits. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to do this effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of the approval system. Each companion in Baldur's Gate 3 has an approval rating that ranges from very low to very high. This rating is influenced by your dialogue choices, actions, and decisions throughout the game. When you make choices that align with a companionÔÇÖs values, their approval increases. Conversely, choices that conflict with their values decrease their approval. ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval is particularly tied to decisions that involve secrecy, pragmatism, and a willingness to make tough choices for the greater good.

To increase ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval, you should focus on the following strategies. In dialogue, choose options that reflect a pragmatic and secretive approach. For example, when dealing with the Tieflings and Druids in the Emerald Grove, siding with the Druids or making decisions that prioritize survival over idealism will earn her approval. Similarly, when interacting with the Goblins, showing a willingness to negotiate or manipulate them rather than immediately resorting to violence can also please her.

Another key strategy is to respect her privacy and her devotion to Shar. Shadowheart is deeply secretive about her past and her mission, so avoid pressing her for information or questioning her faith. When she shares something personal, respond with understanding and support rather than skepticism or judgment. For instance, when she reveals her connection to Shar, choosing dialogue options that show respect for her beliefs will increase her approval.

In combat, Shadowheart appreciates tactical and efficient approaches. Using her abilities effectively, such as her healing spells and crowd control, and making smart decisions in battle will earn her approval. Additionally, avoiding unnecessary risks or reckless behavior in combat situations will align with her pragmatic nature.

There are also specific moments in the game where you can significantly increase ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval. For example, during the encounter with the Owlbear in the cave, choosing to spare the Owlbear cub rather than killing it can earn her approval. Similarly, in the Goblin Camp, if you manage to deceive or manipulate the Goblins without resorting to violence, she will appreciate your cunning.

ItÔÇÖs important to avoid certain mistakes that can decrease ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval. Being overly idealistic or altruistic in your decisions can clash with her pragmatic worldview. For example, choosing to help the Tieflings at the expense of your own safety or resources might decrease her approval. Additionally, being too nosy or pushy about her past and her mission will make her uncomfortable and lower her approval.

Advanced techniques for optimizing 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. Making choices that support her mission and help her achieve her goals will significantly boost her approval. Additionally, bringing her along for key story moments where her skills and perspective are valuable can also increase her approval.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval system is influenced by her alignment and class. As a cleric of Shar, she leans towards a neutral or evil alignment, valuing pragmatism and secrecy over traditional notions of good and evil. Understanding these alignment traits can help you make decisions that align with her values.

Specific examples of scenarios where you can increase ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval include the encounter with the dying Mind Flayer on the Nautiloid. Choosing to kill the Mind Flayer rather than letting it live will earn her approval. Similarly, in the Goblin Camp, if you manage to deceive Priestess Gut and avoid a direct confrontation, she will appreciate your cunning.

In summary, increasing ShadowheartÔÇÖs approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a combination of pragmatic decision-making, respect for her privacy and faith, and tactical efficiency in combat. By aligning your choices with her values and avoiding actions that clash with her worldview, you can build a strong relationship with her and unlock deeper aspects of her character and story.