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

Increasing approval with Minthara in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a deep understanding of her personality, motivations, and the choices that align with her values. Minthara is a Drow Paladin of the Absolute, and her approval is heavily influenced by actions that demonstrate strength, ruthlessness, and loyalty to the Absolute. Unlike other companions, Minthara is not recruited through traditional means, and her approval is tied to specific story choices and moral alignments. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to increase her approval.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics of approval in Baldur's Gate 3. Approval is a hidden value that increases or decreases based on your dialogue choices, actions, and decisions throughout the game. Each companion has their own preferences, and MintharaÔÇÖs approval is tied to her devotion to the Absolute and her desire for power. To gain her approval, you must make choices that align with her worldview, such as embracing the AbsoluteÔÇÖs influence, showing cruelty to enemies, and prioritizing strength over mercy.

To begin increasing MintharaÔÇÖs approval, you must first encounter her in the Goblin Camp during Act 1. This is a critical moment, as your interactions here will set the tone for your relationship. When speaking to Minthara, choose dialogue options that express loyalty to the Absolute and a willingness to serve her cause. For example, when she asks about your intentions, select responses that emphasize your desire to work with her and eliminate her enemies. Avoid showing hesitation or questioning her authority, as this will lower her approval.

One of the most significant ways to gain MintharaÔÇÖs approval is by siding with her during the raid on the Druid Grove. This is a major story decision that will have lasting consequences, as it involves betraying the Tieflings and Druids who are seeking refuge in the Grove. To initiate this path, you must inform Minthara of the GroveÔÇÖs location and agree to help her lead the attack. During the raid, make choices that demonstrate your commitment to the Absolute, such as killing key NPCs like Zevlor or Kagha. These actions will significantly boost MintharaÔÇÖs approval and solidify your alliance with her.

After the raid, Minthara will join your party as a companion. From this point forward, her approval can be further increased by making choices that align with her values. For example, during combat, prioritize ruthless tactics and avoid showing mercy to enemies. Minthara respects strength and decisiveness, so actions like executing defeated foes or using intimidation in dialogue will earn her approval. Additionally, when interacting with other NPCs, choose dialogue options that emphasize your loyalty to the Absolute and your willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve your goals.

ItÔÇÖs important to note that MintharaÔÇÖs approval is closely tied to the storyÔÇÖs progression and the choices you make. Unlike other companions, her approval cannot be easily increased through small, everyday actions. Instead, it requires a consistent commitment to her ideals and a willingness to make morally questionable decisions. This makes her one of the more challenging companions to build a relationship with, as her approval is often at odds with the values of other companions like Wyll or Karlach.

One common mistake to avoid is trying to balance MintharaÔÇÖs approval with that of other companions. Her worldview is fundamentally opposed to characters like Wyll, who value justice and compassion. Attempting to please both Minthara and Wyll will likely result in low approval from one or both of them. Instead, focus on building a party that aligns with MintharaÔÇÖs values, such as recruiting Astarion or LaeÔÇÖzel, who share her ruthless nature.

Advanced techniques for increasing MintharaÔÇÖs approval include leveraging her personal questline and exploring her backstory. As you progress through the game, youÔÇÖll have opportunities to learn more about MintharaÔÇÖs past and her motivations. Engaging with these story elements and making choices that support her goals will further increase her approval. Additionally, consider using her in combat to build rapport. Minthara is a powerful Paladin, and utilizing her abilities effectively in battle will demonstrate your respect for her strength and skill.

In terms of D&D 5E rules, MintharaÔÇÖs approval system reflects her alignment as a Lawful Evil character. Her approval is tied to actions that align with this alignment, such as enforcing order through fear and prioritizing personal power over altruism. Understanding these alignment-based mechanics can help you make choices that resonate with her character and increase her approval.

Specific examples of actions that increase MintharaÔÇÖs approval include executing prisoners, betraying allies, and embracing the AbsoluteÔÇÖs influence. For instance, during the confrontation with the Tieflings in the Grove, choosing to side with Minthara and slaughter the refugees will earn her approval. Similarly, in dialogue with other NPCs, selecting options that emphasize your loyalty to the Absolute and your willingness to use violence to achieve your goals will also increase her approval.

In conclusion, increasing MintharaÔÇÖs approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires a commitment to her values and a willingness to make morally complex decisions. By aligning yourself with the Absolute, demonstrating ruthlessness, and prioritizing strength over mercy, you can build a strong relationship with Minthara and unlock her full potential as a companion. However, this path comes with significant consequences, as it often involves betraying other characters and making choices that conflict with traditional notions of heroism. If youÔÇÖre willing to embrace this darker path, Minthara can become a powerful and loyal ally in your journey through Baldur's Gate 3.