How do I improve my relationship with the intellect devourer in Baldur's Gate 3?

Improving your relationship with the intellect devourer in Baldur's Gate 3 is a unique and somewhat unconventional aspect of the game. Intellect devourers are typically hostile creatures in Dungeons & Dragons lore, known for their parasitic nature and ability to control minds. However, in Baldur's Gate 3, there are specific scenarios where you can interact with an intellect devourer in a more neutral or even cooperative manner. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to navigate this relationship.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the context in which you encounter the intellect devourer. Early in the game, you come across an intellect devourer named Us, who is found in the Nautiloid ship. Us is a unique intellect devourer that has been separated from its hive mind, making it more open to communication. The key to improving your relationship with Us lies in the dialogue choices you make during your initial encounter and subsequent interactions.

When you first meet Us, you have the option to either attack it or engage in conversation. Choosing to talk to Us is the first step in building a relationship. During the conversation, you will be presented with several dialogue options. Opting for choices that show empathy or curiosity about UsÔÇÖs condition will increase its trust in you. For example, asking about its well-being or expressing interest in its unique situation can help establish a bond.

After the initial conversation, Us will join your party temporarily. During this time, itÔÇÖs crucial to continue making choices that align with UsÔÇÖs interests. For instance, if you encounter other intellect devourers or mind flayers, choosing to avoid conflict or finding non-violent solutions can further improve your relationship with Us. Us values survival and self-preservation, so actions that demonstrate a similar mindset will be beneficial.

One important tip is to avoid actions that directly threaten Us or its kind. Attacking intellect devourers or mind flayers without provocation can lead to a breakdown in trust. Additionally, making choices that prioritize the well-being of your party over UsÔÇÖs interests can also negatively impact your relationship. ItÔÇÖs a delicate balance, but focusing on mutual survival and cooperation is key.

In terms of combat tactics, having Us in your party can be advantageous. Us has abilities that can aid in battle, such as its psychic attacks and mobility. Utilizing Us effectively in combat can not only help you in difficult encounters but also strengthen your bond. For example, using Us to scout ahead or distract enemies can be a strategic move that benefits both of you.

Advanced techniques involve leveraging UsÔÇÖs unique abilities to your advantage. For instance, Us can detect hidden enemies or traps, making it a valuable asset in exploration. Additionally, UsÔÇÖs psychic abilities can be used to manipulate or control enemies, providing tactical advantages in combat. By incorporating Us into your strategies, you can maximize its potential and further solidify your relationship.

From a D&D rules perspective, intellect devourers are typically hostile creatures with a challenge rating of 2. However, Us is a special case, as it has been separated from its hive mind and is more open to cooperation. This aligns with the D&D concept of creatures having individual personalities and motivations, even within typically hostile species. Understanding this can help you approach the relationship with Us in a more nuanced way.

Specific examples of improving your relationship with Us include choosing to spare intellect devourers you encounter later in the game, such as in the Underdark. Additionally, making dialogue choices that express a desire to understand and coexist with Us can lead to a more positive outcome. For instance, if you encounter a situation where UsÔÇÖs survival is at risk, choosing to protect it over other options will significantly boost your relationship.

In summary, improving your relationship with the intellect devourer Us in Baldur's Gate 3 involves making empathetic and cooperative choices during your interactions. Avoiding actions that threaten Us or its kind, utilizing its abilities effectively in combat, and prioritizing mutual survival are key strategies. By understanding the unique nature of Us and approaching the relationship with care, you can build a strong and beneficial bond with this unconventional companion.