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

To increase Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3, you need to understand her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. Lae'zel is a Githyanki warrior who values strength, discipline, and decisiveness. She has little patience for weakness, indecision, or moral ambiguity. Her approval is heavily influenced by choices that align with her warrior ethos and her Githyanki culture, which prioritizes survival, loyalty to her people, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 works on a hidden numerical scale. Each companion has their own approval rating, which increases or decreases based on your dialogue choices, actions, and decisions throughout the game. When you make a choice that a companion approves of, you will see a notification in the top-left corner of the screen indicating their approval. Conversely, if they disapprove, you will see a notification for that as well. Lae'zel's approval is particularly tied to choices that demonstrate strength, pragmatism, and a willingness to prioritize survival over sentimentality.

To increase Lae'zel's approval, you should focus on making choices that align with her values. For example, during the early interactions with her, you should avoid questioning her authority or doubting her knowledge of the Githyanki ways. When she suggests a course of action, such as seeking out the Githyanki creche to cure the tadpole, agreeing with her will earn her approval. Similarly, when faced with moral dilemmas, choosing the more pragmatic or ruthless option will often please her. For instance, if you encounter a situation where you must decide between helping a weak NPC or prioritizing your own survival, choosing the latter will likely earn her approval.

One specific example is during the encounter with the Tieflings who have captured Lae'zel near the beginning of the game. If you side with Lae'zel and demand her release, or even threaten the Tieflings, she will approve of your decisiveness and loyalty to her. On the other hand, if you try to negotiate or show sympathy for the Tieflings, she will disapprove. Another example is during the confrontation with the Githyanki patrol later in the game. If you stand by Lae'zel and support her in dealing with her kin, she will appreciate your loyalty. However, if you try to avoid conflict or side against her, she will disapprove.

It is also important to engage with Lae'zel in camp conversations. These dialogues provide opportunities to learn more about her background and values, and making choices that align with her worldview will increase her approval. For example, when she speaks about her training and the importance of strength, agreeing with her and showing admiration for her discipline will earn her approval. Additionally, during moments where she expresses frustration or impatience, siding with her and validating her feelings will also help.

One common mistake to avoid is trying to appeal to Lae'zel's softer side. Unlike some other companions, Lae'zel does not respond well to attempts at empathy or compassion unless they are framed in a way that aligns with her values. For example, if you try to comfort her by suggesting that she should take a break or relax, she will likely disapprove. Instead, you should frame your support in terms of strength and resilience, such as encouraging her to stay focused on her goals.

Advanced techniques for increasing Lae'zel's approval include leveraging her personal questline. As you progress through the game, you will encounter opportunities to help Lae'zel with her mission to find a cure for the tadpole and deal with her Githyanki kin. Making choices that support her in these quests will significantly boost her approval. For example, when you reach the Githyanki creche, siding with her and helping her navigate the challenges there will earn her approval. Additionally, during key moments in her questline, such as when she must confront her own people or make difficult decisions, supporting her choices will strengthen your bond.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, Lae'zel's approval system is influenced by her alignment and background as a Githyanki. In D&D 5E, Githyanki are typically lawful evil, valuing order, strength, and loyalty to their own kind. This is reflected in Lae'zel's personality and the types of choices she approves of. Understanding her alignment and background can help you predict which choices will earn her approval.

In summary, to increase Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3, you should focus on making choices that demonstrate strength, decisiveness, and loyalty to her and her goals. Avoid showing weakness or indecision, and prioritize survival and pragmatism over sentimentality. Engage with her in camp conversations, support her in her personal questline, and align your actions with her Githyanki values. By doing so, you will build a strong relationship with Lae'zel and increase her approval throughout the game.