What happens if I let Gale destroy the Absolute in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, Gale has a unique and dramatic story arc that can culminate in him sacrificing himself to destroy the Absolute, a powerful and malevolent force threatening the world. This outcome is tied to his personal quest, "The Wizard of Waterdeep," and requires specific choices and actions throughout the game. Here is a detailed explanation of how to achieve this ending, including mechanics, strategies, and considerations.

To begin, Gale is a companion you can recruit early in the game. He is found near the Roadside Cliffs waypoint, trapped in a magical sigil. After freeing him, he will join your party and reveal that he has a dangerous condition: a Netherese Destruction Orb in his chest that requires periodic consumption of magical artifacts to stabilize. This condition is central to his personal quest and the potential for him to destroy the Absolute.

The mechanics of Gale's sacrifice involve his connection to the Netherese Orb. As the story progresses, you will learn more about the Absolute and its connection to the Mind Flayers and the Elder Brain. Gale believes that he can use the Orb to destroy the Absolute, but doing so would mean his own death. This choice becomes available in the late stages of the game, particularly during the final confrontation with the Absolute.

To reach this outcome, you must support Gale throughout his personal quest. This involves allowing him to consume magical artifacts when he requests them, as denying him could lead to his death or departure from the party. Additionally, you must build a strong relationship with Gale by making choices that align with his values, such as valuing knowledge, magic, and self-sacrifice. His approval rating will influence his willingness to trust you and follow your guidance.

When you reach the final stages of the game, you will face the Absolute in a climactic battle. At this point, Gale will present the option to use the Netherese Orb to destroy the Absolute. If you have supported him and built a strong relationship, he will be willing to make this sacrifice. You must choose to let him proceed, knowing that it will result in his death but save the world from the Absolute's threat.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, ensure that Gale is in your active party during key moments of the story, particularly during his personal quest and the final battle. This ensures that he is present and able to make the sacrifice. Second, be mindful of his approval rating and make dialogue choices that align with his values. This will increase the likelihood of him being willing to make the sacrifice.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting Gale's personal quest or denying him the magical artifacts he needs. This can lead to his death or departure before the final battle, making it impossible for him to destroy the Absolute. Additionally, failing to build a strong relationship with Gale may result in him refusing to make the sacrifice, as he may not trust you enough to follow your guidance.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve carefully managing your party composition and resources. Ensure that Gale is well-equipped with powerful spells and items to support him in combat, as he will need to survive until the final battle. Additionally, consider the impact of your choices on other companions and the overall story, as Gale's sacrifice will have significant consequences for the world and your party.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, Gale's Netherese Orb and the concept of self-sacrifice are unique to Baldur's Gate 3. However, the themes of personal quests, approval ratings, and moral choices are consistent with the broader D&D 5E rules and storytelling principles. The game adapts these mechanics to create a rich and immersive narrative experience.

Specific examples and scenarios include moments where Gale requests magical artifacts to stabilize the Orb. These requests will occur periodically throughout the game, and you must decide whether to give him the artifacts or risk his condition worsening. Additionally, during the final battle, you will have the option to let Gale use the Orb to destroy the Absolute. This moment is a culmination of your choices and relationship with Gale, and it will have a profound impact on the story's outcome.

In conclusion, letting Gale destroy the Absolute in Baldur's Gate 3 is a powerful and emotional story choice that requires careful planning and relationship-building. By supporting Gale throughout his personal quest, making choices that align with his values, and ensuring his survival until the final battle, you can achieve this dramatic and impactful ending.