Should We Take the Relic in Hogwarts Legacy? A Comprehensive Guide

The question of whether to take the relic during the “In The Shadow Of Time” quest in Hogwarts Legacy is a recurring concern for many players. This pivotal moment, steeped in the dark allure of Sebastian Sallow’s storyline, often leaves players grappling with moral dilemmas and potential in-game consequences. The truth, however, might surprise you.

The Reality of the Relic Decision

The short answer is: it doesn’t matter. Whether you actively encourage or dissuade Sebastian from taking the relic during “In The Shadow Of Time,” the outcome remains the same. This is a crucial point to understand: the game narrative is designed in such a way that Sebastian will always take the relic. Your dialogue choices during this specific interaction do not alter the fundamental course of events. Therefore, you should feel free to choose the option that aligns best with your character’s roleplaying preferences rather than worrying about the long-term ramifications.

This lack of impact has sparked some criticism, with many viewing it as a missed opportunity for more dynamic gameplay where player choices would carry weight. However, the reality is that this moment, despite its intense build-up and emotional weight, is a narrative set piece where the player’s actions have limited direct consequences.

The Influence of Ominis Gaunt

While your choice concerning the relic does not affect whether Sebastian takes it, it does influence Ominis Gaunt’s reaction. Ominis, who has been eavesdropping on your conversation with Sebastian, will express disappointment if you support Sebastian’s decision. This interaction, however, is primarily cosmetic, changing a small part of the dialogue and reinforcing Ominis’s feelings about the path Sebastian is taking. It doesn’t alter the gameplay experience beyond a single line of dialogue.

The Larger Narrative Context

Understanding the larger context of Sebastian’s questline is crucial. The relic is merely one step on Sebastian’s dark descent, and the game narrative is more concerned with chronicling his tragic journey rather than allowing players to significantly alter it. This is evident in other pivotal moments in Sebastian’s questline, such as:

• Anne’s Uncurable Illness: No matter your actions, you cannot save Anne from her curse. This unfortunate reality is integral to Sebastian’s motivations and his increasing desperation.
• Solomon’s Death: Sebastian will always kill his uncle, Solomon Sallow, eventually using the killing curse. Player choice does not alter this event.
• Turning Sebastian In: The only significant impactful choice in Sebastian’s arc is whether or not to turn him in for killing Solomon. This choice will determine whether Sebastian is expelled and removed from the game.

These events highlight that the primary focus of Sebastian’s storyline is on the consequences of using dark magic and the tragic fall of a character rather than an interactive, dynamic plot determined by player actions. The relic is merely a plot device that propels Sebastian further down his dark path.

Implications for Gameplay

The lack of consequences related to the relic decision might disappoint some players, but it does have a specific implication for the way you approach Sebastian’s story. Because your choices do not change the overall arc, it allows you to freely explore the moral complexities of the situation. You are free to either fully support Sebastian’s pursuit of dark magic or to try and steer him away, without the fear of “messing up” a specific ending relating to the relic. This allows you to focus on the emotional journey and personal relationships rather than constantly optimizing your choices.

Ultimately, the “In The Shadow Of Time” quest and the relic serve as a powerful narrative beat and another push into Sebastian’s story. It does not represent a dynamic choice that splits the story into multiple paths. Thus, do what feels right for your story.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions that provide further insights into the relic and Sebastian Sallow’s storyline:

1. Does the relic save Anne in Hogwarts Legacy?

No, the relic does not save Anne. Regardless of what you do, her condition remains uncurable. This is a core element of the tragic nature of Sebastian’s quest.

2. Should I tell Ominis about the relic?

Whether you tell Ominis about the relic or not is inconsequential to the main narrative. However, if you support Sebastian, Ominis will express disappointment.

3. What is the good ending in Hogwarts Legacy?

The good ending is achieved by choosing specific dialogue options in the final quest. These options involve keeping ancient magic contained and secret. This is not related to taking the relic, but is a separate ending choice.

4. Does it make a difference if you turn Sebastian in?

Yes, this is one of the few choices that truly matter. Turning Sebastian in results in his expulsion from Hogwarts and his removal from the game.

5. Should I side with Ominis or Sebastian about the relic?

Your choice is ultimately up to your roleplay. Regardless, Sebastian takes the relic. Your choice only impacts Ominis’ immediate reaction.

6. Should you let Sebastian take the relic?

Yes, Sebastian will always take the relic regardless of your choices. Your decision does not change the outcome.

7. Can you stop Sebastian from killing his uncle?

No, you cannot prevent Solomon’s death. It’s a scripted event in the narrative.

8. Is Sebastian Sallow evil?

Sebastian’s character is complex. He’s not inherently evil but becomes consumed by his desire to help his sister and ultimately descends into using dark magic and killing.

9. What happens to Sebastian Sallow?

What happens to Sebastian depends on your choice to turn him in. If you don’t turn him in, he has no major interaction in the story beyond his quest line. If you do, he is expelled and sent to Azkaban.

10. Is Sebastian good or bad?

Sebastian is a morally gray character. While he starts with good intentions, his path is filled with morally questionable actions that ultimately lead to tragedy.

11. Should you side with Sebastian or his uncle?

It is crucial to note that it was not the Goblins who cursed Anne but another character not mentioned in the article. It’s a difficult choice. Solomon is portrayed as an overbearing and abusive figure, making Sebastian’s desperate actions somewhat understandable. Players will get to learn who cursed Anne throughout the quest line.

12. Can you ever cure Anne in Hogwarts Legacy?

No, Anne’s curse remains incurable throughout the game.

13. How many endings does Hogwarts Legacy have?

Hogwarts Legacy has three main endings, a good, bad and neutral ending. These are not connected to the choices regarding the relic, but with the final dialogue options at the end of the game.

14. Can I learn Avada Kedavra without Sebastian?

Yes, you can access Avada Kedavra through the Dark Arts Battle Arena with the Deluxe Edition or Dark Arts Pack DLC. However, this is only after completing certain prerequisites.

15. Can I romance Sebastian in Hogwarts Legacy?

No, Hogwarts Legacy does not feature any romance options, meaning you cannot romance Sebastian or any other character.

By understanding the specific choices in Sebastian’s storyline, particularly the decision regarding the relic, players can navigate the narrative more confidently and focus on the overall themes and emotional impact of the game.