Should you ally with the Emperor or Orpheus?
The decision to ally with the Emperor or Orpheus in Baldur’s Gate 3 is a crucial one, as it significantly impacts the game’s ending, with freedom from mind flayer transformation being a key consideration for those who choose to side with the Emperor, while those who opt to free Orpheus must be prepared for the potential consequences of Mind Flayer assimilation. Ultimately, the choice between the Emperor and Orpheus hinges on the player’s priorities, including their stance on character transformations and storyline progression.
Understanding the Consequences
The Emperor’s Proposal
The Emperor’s offer to protect the player from Mind Flayer transformation in exchange for their loyalty presents a compelling option for those seeking to maintain their character’s integrity. However, this decision may lead to Lae’zel’s betrayal and the necessity to confront the Emperor in the final battle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens if you side with the Emperor?: By siding with the Emperor, you’ll give the Netherstones to him, and he’ll fight the brain with you as an ally before departing, disappearing from the world for the foreseeable future.
- Can you still join the Imperials after killing the Emperor?: Yes, in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, killing the Emperor does not prevent you from joining the Imperial Legion.
- How does freeing Orpheus affect the game?: Freeing Orpheus may result in the party becoming Mind Flayers, while siding with the Emperor can lead to losing a character.
- Can the Emperor and Orpheus work together?: While they can initially cooperate, Orpheus will ultimately betray the Emperor if given the chance.
- Should you trust the Emperor?: The Emperor’s actions suggest that he is not a “good guy” by definition, making it a moral choice for the player to decide whether to trust him.
- What happens if you save Orpheus?: Saving Orpheus allows him to join your party as a Monk, providing a valuable ally in future battles.
- Can you free Orpheus without betraying the Emperor?: Unfortunately, attempting to free Orpheus will lead to the Emperor’s betrayal, regardless of previous alliances.
- How do you free Orpheus?: You can free Orpheus using the Orphic Hammer or by sacrificing a character to become a Mind Flayer.
- What is Orpheus’ backstory?: Orpheus is known for his descent into Hades to reclaim his wife, Eurydice, with his music and grief moving even the gods.
- Can you convince the Emperor to free Orpheus?: The Emperor will reject any attempt to free Orpheus, leading to his departure and potential enemy status.
- What happens if you side with Orpheus?: Siding with Orpheus means the Emperor will join the Netherbrain’s forces, becoming an enemy in the final battle.
- Is it better to join the Stormcloaks or Imperials?: The choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials in Skyrim depends on the player’s character background and beliefs regarding the Empire’s authority.
- Who are the good guys in Skyrim?: The Dawnguard, Companions, and the Empire are generally considered the “good guys” in Skyrim.
- Can you help Eurydice and Orpheus in other games?: In some games, you can help Eurydice and Orpheus by completing specific quests or donating Nectar to help them reunite.
- What happens if you free Orpheus in Baldur’s Gate 3?: Freeing Orpheus in Baldur’s Gate 3 leads to a unique storyline and potential Mind Flayer transformation, offering a distinct gaming experience.