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

Gaining Shadowheart's approval in Baldur's Gate 3 involves understanding her personality, values, and the mechanics of the approval system. 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 practical solutions over idealism. To gain her approval, you need to align your choices and actions with these traits.

The approval system in Baldur's Gate 3 is based on dialogue choices, story decisions, and actions during gameplay. Each companion has a hidden approval rating that increases or decreases based on your choices. Shadowheart's approval can be influenced by how you handle situations involving secrecy, deception, and self-interest. For example, she appreciates when you avoid unnecessary risks, prioritize survival, and show respect for her faith in Shar.

To gain Shadowheart's approval, start by engaging in conversations with her at camp or during downtime. Choose dialogue options that reflect a pragmatic and cautious approach. For instance, when discussing the tadpole in your head, avoid expressing fear or desperation. Instead, focus on finding a solution without panicking. Shadowheart respects those who remain calm and collected in the face of danger.

During story moments, make choices that align with her values. For example, in the early part of the game, you encounter a group of tieflings who have captured Lae'zel, another companion. If you choose to deceive the tieflings or avoid conflict altogether, Shadowheart will approve. She prefers avoiding unnecessary battles and using cunning to achieve your goals. Similarly, when dealing with the goblins in the Goblin Camp, opting for stealth or deception over direct confrontation will earn her approval.

Combat tactics can also influence Shadowheart's approval. She appreciates when you use strategy and avoid reckless behavior. For example, positioning her to heal or support the party effectively will show that you value her role as a cleric. Additionally, using her spells like "Bless" or "Guiding Bolt" to support the party will demonstrate your understanding of her abilities and your willingness to work as a team.

Avoid actions that go against her values. For instance, openly criticizing her faith in Shar or making decisions that prioritize others over the party's survival will decrease her approval. Shadowheart is not fond of altruistic or idealistic choices that put the group at risk. She also dislikes when you pry into her personal life or secrets, so avoid pressing her for information unless she offers it willingly.

Advanced techniques for gaining Shadowheart's approval include leveraging her personal questline. As you progress through the game, you will uncover more about her past and her connection to Shar. Supporting her in these moments, such as helping her retrieve the artifact she carries, will significantly boost her approval. Additionally, completing her personal quests and making choices that align with her goals will deepen your relationship with her.

In terms of D&D mechanics, Shadowheart's approval system is influenced by her alignment and class. As a cleric of Shar, she leans towards a neutral or evil alignment, valuing self-interest and secrecy. Understanding these traits can help you make choices that align with her worldview. For example, in D&D terms, a neutral character might prioritize balance and self-preservation, while an evil character might prioritize personal gain. Shadowheart's approval system reflects these principles, so making choices that align with these traits will earn her favor.

Specific examples of gaining Shadowheart's approval include the following scenarios. When you encounter the druid Kagha in the Emerald Grove, siding with her pragmatic approach to protecting the grove will earn Shadowheart's approval. Similarly, when dealing with the hag in the swamp, choosing to negotiate or deceive her rather than attacking outright will align with Shadowheart's values. In the Underdark, supporting her desire to explore and uncover secrets will also increase her approval.

In summary, gaining Shadowheart's approval requires a combination of dialogue choices, story decisions, and combat tactics that align with her pragmatic and secretive nature. By understanding her values and making choices that reflect them, you can build a strong relationship with her and unlock deeper interactions and potential romance options. Avoid actions that go against her beliefs, and focus on supporting her personal quests and goals to maximize her approval.