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

Increasing Minthara's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a deep understanding of her personality, motivations, and the game's approval mechanics. Minthara is a Drow Paladin of the Absolute, and her alignment leans heavily toward Lawful Evil. She values strength, loyalty to the Absolute, and decisive action. To gain her approval, you must align your choices and actions with these values. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of approval. Approval in Baldur's Gate 3 is influenced by your dialogue choices, story decisions, and actions during quests. Each companion has a hidden approval rating that increases or decreases based on how you interact with them and the world around you. Minthara, in particular, responds positively to displays of power, cruelty, and loyalty to the Absolute. She disapproves of acts of mercy, indecision, or siding against the Absolute.

To start increasing Minthara's approval, you must first recruit her. This involves siding with the goblins during the early game conflict at the Druid Grove. If you choose to attack the grove and side with the goblins, Minthara will join your party. This is a critical decision, as it locks you out of other companions like Wyll and Karlach, who will leave if you attack the grove. Once Minthara is in your party, you can begin building her approval.

One of the most effective ways to gain Minthara's approval is through dialogue choices that reflect her values. For example, when speaking to NPCs, choose options that emphasize strength, dominance, and loyalty to the Absolute. Avoid showing weakness or compassion, as these will lower her approval. In conversations with Minthara herself, agree with her views on power and control. She appreciates when you acknowledge her authority and the might of the Absolute.

During quests, make decisions that align with Minthara's goals. For instance, if you encounter a situation where you can either negotiate or use force, always choose the aggressive option. Minthara approves of actions that demonstrate your willingness to crush your enemies and assert dominance. She also likes it when you prioritize the goals of the Absolute over personal gain or the well-being of others.

Combat tactics can also influence Minthara's approval. She respects characters who fight effectively and without hesitation. Use her in combat to deal heavy damage and show your strategic prowess. Minthara is a Paladin, so she excels in melee combat. Pair her with characters who can support her, such as a Cleric for healing or a Wizard for crowd control. This will not only make her more effective in battle but also show her that you value her strength and abilities.

There are some common mistakes to avoid when trying to increase Minthara's approval. One major mistake is showing mercy or compassion in situations where Minthara expects you to be ruthless. For example, sparing enemies or helping those in need will lower her approval. Another mistake is indecision. Minthara values decisiveness, so always choose the most direct and aggressive option when given the chance.

Advanced techniques for increasing Minthara's approval involve optimizing your party composition and quest choices. Since Minthara is a Paladin, she benefits from having a party that complements her abilities. Consider bringing along a Rogue for sneak attacks, a Sorcerer for powerful spells, and a Cleric for healing. This will make your party more effective in combat, which Minthara appreciates. Additionally, focus on quests that involve the Absolute or require you to assert dominance over others. These quests often provide opportunities to gain Minthara's approval.

In terms of D&D rules and mechanics, Minthara's approval system is based on her alignment and class. As a Lawful Evil character, she values order, power, and control. Her Paladin class also influences her approval, as she respects those who demonstrate strength and loyalty. Understanding these aspects of her character will help you make choices that align with her values.

Specific examples of actions that increase Minthara's approval include siding with the goblins at the Druid Grove, killing the Tieflings, and supporting the Absolute in various quests. For instance, during the quest to rescue Halsin, choosing to kill him instead of freeing him will greatly increase Minthara's approval. Similarly, in conversations with NPCs, always choose options that emphasize your loyalty to the Absolute and your willingness to use force to achieve your goals.

In conclusion, increasing Minthara's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a strategic approach that aligns with her values and motivations. By making choices that demonstrate strength, loyalty, and decisiveness, you can build a strong relationship with her. Avoid showing mercy or compassion, and always prioritize the goals of the Absolute. With these strategies, you can maximize Minthara's approval and unlock her full potential as a companion.