Should You Turn Sebastian Sallow In? A Hogwarts Legacy Dilemma
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The question of whether or not to turn Sebastian Sallow in after the tragic events surrounding his uncle, Solomon, is one of the most morally challenging decisions in Hogwarts Legacy. There’s no easy answer, as the consequences ripple through the storyline, affecting not only Sebastian’s fate but also your own gameplay experience. Simply put, the decision hinges on your playstyle, your willingness to embrace the Unforgivable Curses, and your overall moral compass.
The Definitive Answer: It Depends on Your Priorities
Objectively, there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” answer. The decision to turn Sebastian in to authorities boils down to what you want to achieve in the game and what kind of character you want to play.
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Turn Sebastian In: Choose this option if you prioritize upholding the rules of Hogwarts and the Ministry of Magic, are uncomfortable with the Unforgivable Curses, and are willing to sacrifice a companion and questline content.
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Don’t Turn Sebastian In: Choose this option if you want to learn the Unforgivable Curses, are interested in seeing the full extent of Sebastian’s questline, and are willing to accept the moral ambiguity of his actions. Choosing this path does not mean you condone his actions, but rather you choose not to report him.
The choice dramatically impacts the availability of certain gameplay elements, particularly the Unforgivable Curses. Consider your desired gameplay experience carefully before making this critical decision. Now, let’s delve deeper into the consequences and considerations of each option.
The Consequences of Turning Sebastian In
Choosing to report Sebastian to the authorities has significant ramifications:
- Expulsion from Hogwarts: Sebastian is expelled, removing him entirely from the game world. You will no longer interact with him, nor will he be available as a companion.
- Loss of the Unforgivable Curses: If you haven’t learned the Unforgivable Curses from Sebastian before turning him in, you will permanently lose the opportunity to learn them on that playthrough. This is arguably the biggest consequence for players interested in mastering all spells.
- Altered Questline: Sebastian’s questline, “In the Shadow of…”, is significantly altered. Ominis Gaunt takes Sebastian’s place in the “In the Shadow of Friendship” quest. This will give you a different perspective on the events and access to the spells.
- Absence from the Epilogue: Sebastian will not appear in the game’s epilogue, providing a different ending.
- Upholding the Law: You demonstrate a commitment to the rules and laws of the wizarding world.
In short, turning Sebastian in offers a morally “good” outcome but sacrifices gameplay opportunities.
The Consequences of NOT Turning Sebastian In
Opting to protect Sebastian has its own set of consequences:
- Moral Ambiguity: You become complicit in his actions, accepting that he got away with murder. This decision might weigh on your conscience depending on your role-playing preferences.
- Continued Access to Unforgivable Curses: You retain the opportunity to learn the Unforgivable Curses from Sebastian at any time. He remains at Hogwarts and willing to teach you, even after Solomon’s death.
- Preserved Questline: The “In the Shadow of…” questline continues as intended, offering the complete narrative arc and character development.
- Sebastian Remains Available: You can continue to interact with Sebastian and potentially influence his future choices, even though he faces no immediate consequences for his actions.
- Potential for Redemption: You might believe Sebastian can be redeemed, and your choice to protect him offers a chance for him to atone for his actions in the future (although the game does not confirm or deny this).
Choosing not to turn Sebastian in allows for a richer gameplay experience and the opportunity to wield powerful dark magic, but it comes at the cost of moral compromise.
The Unforgivable Curses: Power vs. Morality
The Unforgivable Curses are potent spells that offer a significant advantage in combat. However, their use is heavily restricted and carries severe consequences within the wizarding world.
- Avada Kedavra (The Killing Curse): Instantly kills the target.
- Crucio (The Cruciatus Curse): Inflicts unbearable pain.
- Imperio (The Imperius Curse): Allows complete control over the target’s actions.
Learning these curses is a significant draw for many players, and Sebastian is the only reliable source for acquiring them if you miss the initial opportunities. If mastering these spells is a priority, then not turning Sebastian in is the only option.
The Larger Narrative and Moral Choices
Hogwarts Legacy presents numerous moral choices throughout the game, and the decision regarding Sebastian is one of the most impactful. It forces players to confront their own values and consider the consequences of their actions. The game does not explicitly punish or reward players for either choice; it simply presents the outcomes and allows players to shape their own narrative.
Remember that while the game allows for certain morally questionable actions, ultimately, the core narrative arc positions you as a protector of the wizarding world. The choices surrounding Sebastian are a test of your willingness to bend the rules and sacrifice personal principles for power or perceived greater good. The choices you make along the way can be discussed with others interested in the effect of games on our lives. The Games Learning Society (or GamesLearningSociety.org) is a great resource for information on this topic.
Conclusion: Make the Choice That Aligns With Your Story
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to turn Sebastian Sallow in is a deeply personal one. There is no “correct” answer. Weigh the consequences, consider your desired gameplay experience, and choose the path that best aligns with your character and your vision for your Hogwarts Legacy story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you stop Sebastian from killing his uncle?
No, you cannot prevent the confrontation between Sebastian and Solomon. The tragic outcome is fixed in the storyline, and Sebastian will ultimately use the Killing Curse on his uncle. Your choice only comes into play after this event, determining whether you report him or not.
2. Does Sebastian Sallow turn evil?
While Sebastian makes morally questionable choices and delves into dark magic, he isn’t necessarily “evil.” He believes his actions are justified in his quest to cure his sister, Anne. His descent into dark magic is driven by desperation and a desire to help his family, rather than malice.
3. Is it bad to tell Sebastian Sallow the truth?
Whether you tell Sebastian the truth or not regarding certain situations (like Rookwood’s involvement in Anne’s curse) doesn’t have a major impact on the overarching story or your friendship with him. However, honesty can strengthen your bond and potentially influence his decisions.
4. What is the bad ending of Hogwarts Legacy?
The game has two main endings: one where you contain the ancient magic, and one where you absorb it for yourself. Absorbing the magic is generally considered the “bad” ending, as it signifies a turn towards darker power and potentially sets you on a path towards becoming a villain.
5. How do you get the good ending in Hogwarts Legacy?
During the final quest, when Professor Fig asks what you intend to do with the ancient magic, choose the option to “keep it contained here.” This triggers the “good” ending, where you prioritize protecting the wizarding world from the dangers of uncontrolled ancient magic.
6. Can I romance Sebastian Hogwarts Legacy?
No, Hogwarts Legacy does not feature any romance options. While you can develop friendships with certain characters like Sebastian and Natty, these relationships remain platonic.
7. Can Anne Sallow be cured?
Unfortunately, no. Despite Sebastian’s relentless pursuit of a cure, Anne Sallow’s condition remains unchanged throughout the game. Her suffering is a central plot point, driving Sebastian’s actions and exploring the themes of loss and desperation.
8. Can I turn Sebastian in after learning the Killing Curse?
Yes, you can learn the Unforgivable Curses from Sebastian and then turn him in. Once you have the spells, your decision to report him is independent of your acquired knowledge.
9. Should I choose the good or bad ending Hogwarts Legacy?
The choice is entirely subjective and depends on your role-playing preferences. If you’ve embraced dark magic and made morally questionable choices throughout the game, choosing the “bad” ending might feel like a natural culmination of your character’s arc. If you’ve striven to be a virtuous wizard or witch, the “good” ending is the more appropriate choice.
10. Is there an evil path in Hogwarts Legacy?
While you can make morally ambiguous choices and learn the Unforgivable Curses, Hogwarts Legacy doesn’t offer a completely “evil” storyline. You are still generally positioned as a protector of the wizarding world.
11. Can I befriend Sebastian Sallow?
Yes, you can befriend Sebastian Sallow and unlock exclusive side quests and opportunities by progressing through his questline, “In the Shadow of…” Building a friendship with him will give you different dialogues and insights.
12. Can you tell Sebastian about Rookwood?
Telling Sebastian about Rookwood can influence the outcome of the side quests, it may also affect what Anne says to you.
13. Does Hogwarts Legacy end when you beat it?
No, the game does not immediately end after completing the main story. You will have new quests to enjoy, and a chance to complete the Field Guide.
14. Is Professor Fig trustworthy Hogwarts Legacy?
Professor Fig acts in your best interests.
15. Is Slytherin bad in Hogwarts Legacy?
No, Slytherin is not portrayed as inherently “bad” in Hogwarts Legacy. While the house has a reputation for producing dark wizards, the game shows that Slytherin students can be just as virtuous and capable as students from other houses.