What are the best ways to gain Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3?

Gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires understanding her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. Lae'zel is a Githyanki warrior, and her personality is shaped by her culture, which values strength, discipline, and loyalty to her people. She respects decisiveness, combat prowess, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving. To gain her approval, you need to align your actions and dialogue choices with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on how your decisions and actions resonate with each companion. When you make choices that a companion agrees with, their approval of you increases. Conversely, if you make choices they dislike, their approval decreases. Approval is tracked on a hidden scale, and higher approval can unlock new dialogue options, personal quests, and even romance opportunities. For Lae'zel, gaining her approval often means prioritizing efficiency, strength, and loyalty to the Githyanki cause.

To start gaining Lae'zel's approval, focus on dialogue choices that reflect her values. For example, when interacting with other characters, choose options that emphasize strength, decisiveness, and a willingness to take risks. Lae'zel appreciates when you stand up for yourself and others, especially in confrontational situations. For instance, if you encounter a group of hostile NPCs, choosing to fight rather than negotiate will likely earn her approval. Similarly, when dealing with moral dilemmas, opt for pragmatic solutions over overly compassionate ones. Lae'zel values results over sentimentality.

Combat is another area where you can gain Lae'zel's approval. She respects characters who excel in battle and contribute to the party's success. To impress her, ensure your character is effective in combat, whether through physical prowess, spellcasting, or tactical decision-making. If you play a class that complements her fighting style, such as a Fighter, Barbarian, or Paladin, you can synergize well with her in combat, which she will appreciate. Additionally, using her in your party during challenging fights and allowing her to take the lead in combat situations can further boost her approval.

Lae'zel's personal quest is also a key factor in gaining her approval. As you progress through the game, you will encounter opportunities to help her achieve her goals, such as finding a cure for the Mind Flayer parasite or seeking out her Githyanki kin. Supporting her in these endeavors and making choices that align with her objectives will significantly increase her approval. For example, when you encounter the Githyanki patrol in Act 1, siding with Lae'zel and supporting her interactions with her people will earn her favor. Conversely, undermining her or questioning her loyalty to the Githyanki will decrease her approval.

One common mistake to avoid is being overly compassionate or indecisive in front of Lae'zel. She views kindness and hesitation as weaknesses, so choosing dialogue options that prioritize mercy or diplomacy over action can lead to disapproval. For example, if you encounter a situation where you can spare an enemy or negotiate a peaceful resolution, Lae'zel may disapprove if you choose the softer approach. Instead, opt for decisive actions that demonstrate strength and resolve.

Advanced techniques for gaining Lae'zel's approval include leveraging her backstory and cultural background. Understanding the Githyanki mindset can help you make choices that resonate with her. The Githyanki are a warrior race that values strength, discipline, and loyalty to their queen, Vlaakith. By showing respect for her culture and demonstrating your own strength and determination, you can earn her respect and approval. Additionally, engaging in her personal quest and supporting her goals will deepen your bond with her.

In terms of related D&D rules and mechanics, Lae'zel's approval system is influenced by her alignment and personality traits. In D&D 5E, the Githyanki are typically lawful evil, meaning they value order and strength but are willing to use ruthless methods to achieve their goals. Lae'zel embodies these traits, so aligning your actions with a lawful or neutral evil approach can help you gain her approval. However, the game allows for flexibility, so you can still earn her favor by demonstrating strength and decisiveness, even if your character is not evil.

Specific examples of gaining Lae'zel's approval include siding with her during conflicts, such as when she confronts Shadowheart over the artifact in Act 1. Supporting Lae'zel in this situation will earn her approval, while siding with Shadowheart will decrease it. Another example is during the encounter with the Githyanki patrol, where choosing to let Lae'zel take the lead in negotiations and supporting her decisions will increase her approval. Additionally, during combat, using her abilities effectively and allowing her to shine in battle will earn her respect.

In summary, gaining Lae'zel's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 requires aligning your actions and dialogue choices with her values of strength, decisiveness, and loyalty to the Githyanki cause. Focus on making pragmatic, action-oriented decisions, excel in combat, and support her personal quest. Avoid being overly compassionate or indecisive, and leverage your understanding of her cultural background to make choices that resonate with her. By following these strategies, you can build a strong relationship with Lae'zel and unlock new opportunities for dialogue, quests, and romance.