How does Karlach Fury of Avernus work?

Karlach, Fury of Avernus, is a complex and intriguing character in the Baldur’s Gate 3 universe, with a unique Infernal Engine that sets her apart from other characters, allowing her to gain first strike until the end of the turn and creating an additional combat phase. Her story is deeply intertwined with the Blood War and her past experiences in Avernus, one of Dungeons & Dragons’ layers of Hell, where she was forced to serve as a soldier for 10 years under the rule of the archdevil Zariel.

Understanding Karlach’s Background

Karlach’s character is shaped by her background as a soldier in the Blood War, which has left her with a strong sense of justice and a desire to protect those in need, making her a valuable ally in combat.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. Can Karlach live without going to Avernus?: Depending on the player’s choices and completion of certain questlines, Karlach can either turn into a Mind Flayer, return to Avernus, or accept her fate and die after the final battle.
2. Why was Karlach in Avernus?: Karlach was sold to Zariel by Lord Enver Gortash and forced to serve as a soldier in the Blood War for 10 years.
3. What happens if Karlach goes back to Avernus?: Returning to Avernus means Karlach must leave the life she loves for a place she worked hard to escape, which would be a fate worse than death for her.

Saving Karlach

4. Can you save Karlach from dying?: Yes, there is a way to save Karlach, although it might not be possible to repair her heart entirely, she can live past the end credits.
5. Should I send Karlach back to Avernus?: It’s not recommended to return Karlach to Avernus as it would be a sad ending for her character, and there’s no guarantee what would happen to the player in Avernus.

Relationships and Romance

6. Is Karlach good or bad?: Karlach is better suited for a “good” playthrough, while another character, the toad, is better for an “evil” one, although they can be interchangeable.
7. Can you romance Astarion and Karlach?: While Karlach cannot be in a physically intimate relationship with the player, she is open to the player having relationships with others, such as Astarion.
8. Is Karlach okay with polyamory?: Karlach gives the player a “pass” to pursue other relationships and is open to polyamory, but other companions may require monogamy.

Combat and Abilities

9. What happens if Wyll kills Karlach?: Killing Karlach gives Wyll the Infernal Robe, which is a valuable item, but it would mean the loss of Karlach as a party member.
10. Can you get the Infernal Robe without killing Karlach?: Yes, it is possible to obtain the Infernal Robe without killing Karlach by following specific steps.

Endings and Quests

11. What happens to Karlach at the end of BG3?: Karlach’s endings in Baldur’s Gate 3 depend on the player’s choices and can result in her dying, turning into a Mind Flayer, or returning to Avernus.
12. How do you get the best ending in Karlach?: The best ending for Karlach is often considered to be allowing her to become a Mind Flayer, as it allows her to retain her memories and personality.
13. Can you still romance Karlach as a Mind Flayer?: Yes, it is possible to romance Karlach even if she becomes a Mind Flayer, but it requires making significant concessions.

Miscellaneous

14. Can you ever touch Karlach?: Due to her Infernal Engine, Karlach will overheat if touched, making it impossible to touch her without finding Infernal Iron to mitigate her condition.
15. Can you date Karlach and Shadowheart?: Yes, it is possible to initiate romances with both Karlach and Shadowheart, although progressing these relationships may have different requirements and outcomes.