What are the best dialogue choices to increase Shadowheart's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Increasing Shadowheart's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 involves understanding her personality, values, and the types of decisions she favors. Shadowheart is a cleric of Shar, the goddess of darkness and loss, and her personality reflects her devotion to secrecy, pragmatism, and self-preservation. She values discretion, loyalty to her goddess, and a willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good. To gain her approval, you need to align your dialogue choices and actions with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions and dialogue choices resonate with each companion. When you make a choice that a companion agrees with, you gain approval points. Conversely, if you make a choice they dislike, you lose approval points. Shadowheart's approval is influenced by your willingness to trust her, respect her privacy, and make decisions that prioritize survival and practicality over idealism.

To increase Shadowheart's approval, follow these strategies. First, always respect her privacy and avoid prying into her past or her connection to Shar. When she asks you to trust her, do so without hesitation. For example, early in the game, she will ask you not to open the artifact she carries. If you agree to respect her wishes, you will gain approval. Similarly, when she expresses her devotion to Shar, avoid criticizing her faith or questioning her beliefs.

Second, make decisions that prioritize survival and practicality. Shadowheart appreciates when you choose the most efficient or self-serving option, even if it seems morally questionable. For instance, during the encounter with the dying Mind Flayer on the Nautiloid, she approves if you choose to kill it rather than try to save it. She also approves of decisions that avoid unnecessary risks, such as avoiding fights when possible or choosing dialogue options that de-escalate conflicts.

Third, show loyalty to your companions and prioritize their well-being. Shadowheart values loyalty and will approve if you defend her or other party members in conversations. For example, if you encounter Lae'zel and she challenges Shadowheart, siding with Shadowheart will increase her approval. Similarly, when dealing with other companions, choose dialogue options that show solidarity with the group rather than individualism.

Fourth, avoid actions that conflict with her values. Shadowheart disapproves of reckless behavior, unnecessary cruelty, or decisions that prioritize idealism over practicality. For example, she disapproves if you release the goblin Sazza from captivity, as it puts the group at risk. She also disapproves of actions that undermine her faith in Shar, such as expressing admiration for Sel├╗ne, Shar's rival goddess.

Advanced techniques for increasing Shadowheart's approval include leveraging her personal questline. As you progress through the game, you will encounter moments that delve deeper into her backstory and her connection to Shar. Making choices that align with her goals during these moments will significantly boost her approval. For example, during her personal quest involving the Nightsong, supporting her decisions and helping her achieve her objectives will earn her approval.

Common mistakes to avoid include being overly nosy about her past, making decisions that prioritize idealism over practicality, or undermining her faith in Shar. For example, if you repeatedly ask her about her past or express skepticism about her devotion to Shar, she will disapprove. Additionally, avoid making decisions that put the group at unnecessary risk, as she values survival and pragmatism.

In terms of D&D mechanics, Shadowheart's approval system reflects her alignment and personality traits. As a cleric of Shar, she leans toward a neutral or neutral evil alignment, valuing self-interest and survival over altruism. This is reflected in her approval of pragmatic decisions and disapproval of reckless or overly idealistic choices. Understanding her alignment and how it influences her reactions can help you make decisions that align with her values.

Specific examples of gaining Shadowheart's approval include siding with her during conflicts with Lae'zel, respecting her privacy regarding the artifact, and making decisions that prioritize survival. For instance, during the encounter with the Tieflings and the goblins, choosing to side with the Tieflings but avoiding unnecessary violence will earn her approval. Similarly, during the encounter with the Owlbear, choosing to avoid confrontation or using stealth to bypass the encounter will also earn her approval.

In summary, increasing Shadowheart's approval requires respecting her privacy, making pragmatic decisions, showing loyalty to your companions, and avoiding actions that conflict with her values. By aligning your choices with her personality and goals, you can build a strong relationship with her and unlock deeper interactions and storylines.