What Happens If You Let Volo Try to Remove the Parasite in Baldur’s Gate 3?
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If you’re venturing through the treacherous world of Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ve likely encountered the flamboyant and somewhat inept Volothamp Geddarm, or Volo. He’s not just a talkative scholar; he offers his services in attempting to remove the mind flayer parasite burrowing in your brain. But what exactly happens if you let Volo try to remove the parasite? The short answer: Volo’s attempt is unsuccessful in removing the parasite, but it results in the acquisition of a unique item called Volo’s Ersatz Eye and a temporary, minor debuff. This eye, while not eliminating your tadpole problem, offers a considerable tactical advantage: the ability to see invisible enemies. This outcome is tied to a specific interaction with Volo where he tries a crude method of eye surgery and you will have to persuade him of your infection first.
The Risky Operation
The process is far from what you might call “professional medical care.” First, you need to convince Volo that you’re infected. Initially, he is skeptical, but will eventually agree to examine you. Your character then lies on a bench, Volo peers into your eye, then recoils in shock. He then proceeds to attempt to extract the tadpole by…well, it involves a rather sharp implement and your eye socket. The surgery is portrayed as chaotic and painful, as one might expect from Volo’s hands.
The Ersatz Eye and Its Benefits
While the surgery fails to address the parasite, it gifts you Volo’s Ersatz Eye. This unique prosthetic replaces the eye Volo tried to operate on. The Ersatz Eye has a permanent upgrade that will enable you to see invisible creatures within 30 feet. This is a powerful advantage, as many tough enemies in Baldur’s Gate 3 can turn invisible. The ability to see these foes makes combat considerably easier. However, the process of getting the eye is not without its cost. There is a temporary debuff you get when you equip the eye. But in terms of long term gameplay advantages, this is a small price to pay to permanently see invisible enemies.
The Downside
The main downside is cosmetic. Your character’s eye will change color, reflecting the fact that you now have a mechanical prosthetic. Additionally, Shadowheart will disapprove of your decision to allow Volo to poke around your brain with a pick, because of the dangers and the seemingly rash decision. While this does not have a long term effect on the relationship with Shadowheart, the game does present it as a negative choice. Although Volo’s “surgery” is not successful in removing the parasite, the Volo’s Ersatz Eye is a worthwhile reward for going through with the procedure and overall the benefits far outweigh the temporary downsides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does letting Volo operate remove the mind flayer parasite?
No, letting Volo operate does not remove the mind flayer parasite. His attempt is unsuccessful in that regard. You still have the tadpole after the operation.
2. What is Volo’s Ersatz Eye and what does it do?
Volo’s Ersatz Eye is a prosthetic eye you receive after letting Volo attempt surgery. It grants you the ability to see invisible creatures within a 30-foot radius.
3. Is the see invisibility effect from Volo’s Ersatz Eye always successful?
The see invisibility effect is not 100% guaranteed. Enemies still need to fail a saving throw in order to be revealed, but when it works, it’s a considerable tactical advantage.
4. Are there any negative consequences to letting Volo operate?
Besides a cosmetic eye color change, Shadowheart will disapprove of your decision. Also there is a very temporary debuff associated with the prosthetic eye, but this is not impactful enough to deter most players.
5. Can Volo join my party in Baldur’s Gate 3?
No, Volo cannot join your party as a companion. However, he can become an ally and merchant in your camp.
6. Can I keep Volo in my camp?
Yes, you can invite Volo to stay in your camp after rescuing him and if you offer, he will help with your parasite problem.
7. Does using parasites change the ending of Baldur’s Gate 3?
No, using or not using parasites does not change the ending of the game. The main benefit is that they provide more powers, but this is not necessary to succeed in the game.
8. Should I let Astarion drink my blood?
If you want to keep Astarion as a party member, it is beneficial to let him drink your blood. You will get the Happy buff, giving him a +1 to all his rolls, and he will permanently gain the Vampire Bite action in battle.
9. Is it possible to be an evil character in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Yes, you can play as an evil character in Baldur’s Gate 3, and it’s a well-designed and engaging experience.
10. Is Volo evil in Baldur’s Gate 3?
No, Volo is not an evil character in Baldur’s Gate 3. He is simply a rather inept and eccentric scholar, though he is known as an antagonist in other games such as Pokémon: Legends: Arceus.
11. Can Auntie Ethel remove the parasite in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Yes, Auntie Ethel offers a potential cure for the parasite. She can be found at the Riverside Teahouse, southwest of the Blighted Village.
12. How do I get Volo’s Ersatz Eye?
You get Volo’s Ersatz Eye by letting him attempt surgery on your infected eye after convincing him of your infection.
13. Can you be revived if Astarion kills you?
Yes, if Astarion inadvertently kills you while drinking your blood, you can be revived with a Scroll of Revivification.
14. Can Astarion turn the player into a vampire?
While Astarion will eventually offer to turn you into a sunlight-immune vampire spawn, he will not be able to turn you into a full vampire.
15. Does Volo sell anything in Baldur’s Gate 3?
Yes, once he is in your camp, Volo becomes a merchant. He sells items such as scrolls, potions, and a ring beneficial for Clerics, The Whispering Promise, and he also buys loot from you.
In conclusion, while Volo’s attempt at parasite removal may seem like a terrible idea, the resulting Volo’s Ersatz Eye offers a tactical advantage worth pursuing, making the chaos of his surgery a surprisingly beneficial trade.