What happens if I let Gale explode in Baldur's Gate 3?

In Baldur's Gate 3, Gale, the wizard companion, has a unique and dramatic story arc that can lead to a catastrophic event if certain conditions are met. Specifically, Gale has a magical condition tied to a Netherese Orb embedded in his chest, which can cause him to explode under specific circumstances. This event is tied to his personal quest and the choices you make throughout the game. LetÔÇÖs break down the mechanics, strategies, and consequences of allowing Gale to explode.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics behind GaleÔÇÖs condition. The Netherese Orb inside Gale is a powerful and unstable magical artifact. Over time, the orb requires magical items to stabilize it. If you fail to provide Gale with these items, the orb will grow increasingly unstable. Eventually, if the orb is not stabilized, Gale will warn you that he is on the verge of exploding. This explosion is not just a small event; it is a massive, game-altering occurrence that can wipe out a significant portion of the game world, including your party and nearby NPCs.

To trigger GaleÔÇÖs explosion, you need to follow a specific path. Early in the game, Gale will ask you to provide him with magical items to consume. These items are used to stabilize the orb. If you refuse to give him these items or simply ignore his requests, the orb will become more unstable. As the game progresses, Gale will become increasingly desperate, and his condition will worsen. At a certain point, he will inform you that he can no longer control the orb and that an explosion is imminent. If you choose not to intervene or take any action to prevent the explosion, Gale will eventually detonate, causing a massive explosion that can kill everyone in the vicinity.

There are a few key steps to ensure that GaleÔÇÖs explosion occurs. First, you must recruit Gale early in the game. He can be found near the Roadside Cliffs waypoint, where he will ask for your help. Once he joins your party, you need to avoid giving him any magical items when he requests them. This will cause the orb to destabilize over time. As you progress through the game, Gale will continue to warn you about the orbÔÇÖs instability. Eventually, he will reach a point where he can no longer control it, and the explosion will occur.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind if you want to let Gale explode. First, be aware that this event will have significant consequences for your game. The explosion will kill Gale, your party members, and any NPCs in the area. This can result in a game over if your entire party is wiped out. Additionally, the explosion will destroy a large portion of the game world, making certain areas inaccessible and potentially locking you out of important quests and storylines. Therefore, itÔÇÖs crucial to save your game before allowing Gale to explode, so you can revert to a previous save if needed.

One common mistake to avoid is accidentally stabilizing the orb by giving Gale magical items. If you want the explosion to occur, you must consistently refuse to give him any items when he asks for them. Additionally, be cautious about progressing too far in GaleÔÇÖs personal quest, as certain actions can stabilize the orb and prevent the explosion. For example, if you complete GaleÔÇÖs questline and help him find a way to control the orb, the explosion will be averted.

In terms of advanced techniques, you can use GaleÔÇÖs explosion as a strategic tool in certain situations. For example, if you are facing a particularly difficult enemy or boss, you can position Gale near them and allow the explosion to occur, effectively using it as a last-resort weapon. However, this is a risky strategy, as it will also kill your party members and potentially lock you out of future content.

From a D&D rules perspective, GaleÔÇÖs condition and the resulting explosion are unique to BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 and do not have direct equivalents in the tabletop game. However, the concept of a powerful magical artifact causing catastrophic consequences is a common theme in D&D lore. The Netherese Orb can be seen as a high-level magical item with dangerous side effects, similar to cursed items or artifacts with unpredictable powers.

In conclusion, allowing Gale to explode in BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3 is a dramatic and game-changing event that requires careful planning and consideration. By understanding the mechanics behind GaleÔÇÖs condition and following the steps outlined above, you can trigger the explosion and experience the consequences. However, be aware of the significant impact this event will have on your game, and make sure to save your progress before proceeding. Whether you choose to let Gale explode or find a way to stabilize the orb, his story is one of the most compelling and unique aspects of BaldurÔÇÖs Gate 3.