Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion’s Quest – To Join or Not to Join?

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a game with rich dialogues and captivating storylines. Among the many characters you’ll encounter, Astarion stands out with his intriguing backstory and engaging dialogues. But did you know that you have the choice to accompany him on his personal quest or leave him behind?

The Allure of Astarion’s Dialogues

Astarion’s conversations are some of the most entertaining in Baldur’s Gate 3. As you journey through the game, you’ll meet various companions, each with their unique quests. Astarion, for instance, seeks your help in confronting his former vampire master. Assisting him not only earns you his gratitude and experience points but also unveils some truly memorable dialogues and story moments. However, the choice is yours: accompany him or let him handle it on his own.

The Dilemma in the Third Act

Spoiler Alert! As you progress to the third act and reach the iconic city of Baldur’s Gate, you’re tasked with exploring the palace of Cazador Szarr. This palace is home to the master vampire Cazador, a nemesis to both the city’s hunters and Astarion. While it’s tempting to bring Astarion along for this quest, the game gives you the freedom to leave him at the camp. You can even update him about the quest’s outcome later.

The Risks of Leaving Astarion Behind

During the climactic battle against Cazador, a ritual takes place where Astarion plays a pivotal role. Due to Cazador’s lingering influence over him, Astarion might be incapacitated at the battle’s onset. As sources like Kotaku suggest, you can strategically leave Astarion out of the battle, ensuring you start with a full party of four. This tactic eliminates the need for any immediate rescue efforts.

Reasons to Bring Astarion Along

For those who crave drama and intense dialogues, bringing Astarion to the showdown is a must. The confrontation between Cazador and Astarion is a spectacle you wouldn’t want to miss. Moreover, leaving Astarion out feels unfair to his character development.

If you decide to have Astarion by your side, there are ways to quickly aid him during the battle. Techniques like Misty Step, Telekinesis, or Dimension Door can be used to reach and assist him. Additionally, defeating Cazador can be simplified by pushing him into an abyss. As a vampire, he’ll transform into a gas cloud and float back to his coffin, where you can finish him off.

Your Choices Matter

How did you approach Astarion’s quest? Do you always involve companions in their personal missions? Remember, every choice you make in Baldur’s Gate 3 shapes the narrative, making each playthrough unique.