What are the best ways to gain Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires understanding her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. Lae'zel is a Githyanki warrior, and her personality is shaped by her culture, which values strength, discipline, and loyalty to her people. She respects decisiveness, combat prowess, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving. To gain her approval, you need to align your actions and dialogue choices with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions and actions resonate with each companion. When you make choices that a companion agrees with, their approval of you increases. Conversely, if you make choices they dislike, their approval decreases. Approval is tracked on a hidden scale, and higher approval can unlock new dialogue options, personal quests, and even romance opportunities. For Lae'zel, you need to focus on making choices that reflect strength, pragmatism, and a willingness to prioritize the mission over sentimentality.

One of the most effective ways to gain Lae'zel's approval is to demonstrate your combat skills and willingness to take decisive action. For example, during combat encounters, prioritize aggressive tactics and avoid unnecessary risks that could lead to failure. Lae'zel respects characters who can hold their own in battle and make tough decisions. If you are playing a character with high combat effectiveness, such as a Fighter, Barbarian, or Paladin, you will naturally align with her values. However, even if you are playing a less combat-focused class, you can still gain her approval by making choices that reflect a strong and determined mindset.

In dialogue, Lae'zel appreciates directness and a focus on the mission. When given the opportunity to make decisions, choose options that prioritize efficiency and results over compassion or diplomacy. For example, in the early game, when you encounter the Tieflings who have captured Lae'zel, siding with her and demanding her release will earn her approval. Similarly, when dealing with the Githyanki patrol later in the game, showing respect for their authority and following their commands will please her. Avoid being overly sympathetic to weaker characters or showing hesitation in critical moments, as this will lower her approval.

Another important aspect of gaining Lae'zel's approval is engaging with her personal quest and backstory. As you progress through the game, you will learn more about her culture and her desire to return to her people. Supporting her goals and showing interest in her heritage will strengthen your bond. For example, when she expresses her desire to find a Githyanki creche to remove the tadpole, agreeing with her and prioritizing this objective will earn her approval. Conversely, dismissing her concerns or suggesting alternative solutions will lower her approval.

It is also important to avoid common mistakes that can lower Lae'zel's approval. One such mistake is being overly compassionate or indecisive. For example, if you choose to spare enemies or show mercy in situations where Lae'zel believes they should be eliminated, she will disapprove. Similarly, if you prioritize helping others over the mission, such as spending too much time aiding the Tieflings or other factions, she may view this as a distraction from the main objective. To maintain her approval, always consider how your actions align with her values and priorities.

Advanced techniques for gaining Lae'zel's approval include leveraging her combat abilities and integrating her into your party composition. Lae'zel is a powerful Fighter, and using her effectively in combat can demonstrate your leadership and strategic thinking. For example, positioning her to take advantage of her high mobility and damage output, or using her to protect weaker party members, can show that you value her strengths. Additionally, engaging in dialogue with her during camp scenes and choosing options that reflect a shared sense of purpose can further increase her approval.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, Lae'zel's approval system is influenced by her alignment and personality traits. In D&D 5E, Githyanki are typically Lawful Evil, valuing order and strength above all else. While Lae'zel is not strictly evil, her personality is shaped by her culture's emphasis on discipline and loyalty. Understanding these traits can help you make choices that align with her worldview. For example, choosing Lawful or Neutral options in dialogue, rather than Chaotic or Good ones, is more likely to earn her approval.

Specific examples of gaining Lae'zel's approval include siding with her during conflicts, such as when she argues with Shadowheart over the artifact, or when she insists on finding a Githyanki creche. In these situations, supporting her perspective and showing respect for her culture will earn her approval. Additionally, during camp scenes, engaging in conversations that reflect a shared commitment to the mission and a willingness to make tough decisions will strengthen your bond.

In summary, gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires aligning your actions and dialogue choices with her values of strength, discipline, and loyalty. By demonstrating combat prowess, making decisive choices, and supporting her personal goals, you can build a strong relationship with her. Avoiding overly compassionate or indecisive behavior, and leveraging her strengths in combat, will further increase her approval. Understanding her personality and the mechanics of the approval system will help you navigate the social dynamics of the game and build a meaningful connection with Lae'zel.