New Study Reveals Impact of Orpheus' Freedom on Baldur's Gate 3 Gameplay

In Baldur's Gate 3's climactic moment, players face a crucial choice: free the imprisoned Githyanki Prince Orpheus or allow the Emperor to handle the situation. This decision, made after acquiring the Orphic Hammer, significantly impacts the game's outcome and character relationships.

Updated February 29, 2024: Before this pivotal decision, players must defeat Ketheric Throm, Lord Enver Gortash, and Orin. This requires thorough exploration of Baldur's Gate's upper and lower districts. The choice carries immense weight, potentially leading to companion sacrifices. High skill checks (30+) may be necessary to influence companion decisions.

Spoiler Warning: The following discusses the game's ending.

Freeing Orpheus or Siding with the Emperor?

This choice hinges on player priorities. The Emperor warns that freeing Orpheus risks party members transforming into Illithids (Mind Flayers).

After the Netherbrain battle (which the Emperor teleports the party to the Astral Prism after failing), the choice is presented: liberate Orpheus or let the Emperor absorb his power.

Siding with the Emperor: This results in Orpheus' demise as the Emperor absorbs his knowledge. Lae'zel and Karlach may disapprove, as Orpheus' survival is integral to their personal quests. While this grants a tactical advantage against the Netherbrain, it's unpopular with fans of those companions.

Freeing Orpheus: This causes the Emperor to align with the Netherbrain. A party member might become a Mind Flayer, contradicting the party's initial goal. However, Orpheus joins the fight, and will even sacrifice himself to become a Mind Flayer to save his people if asked.

In short: Choose the Emperor to avoid Mind Flayer transformation; choose Orpheus to risk it. The Emperor's choice might alienate Lae'zel and send Karlach back to Avernus. The ultimate decision rests on player preference.

Moral Considerations:

The "moral" choice depends on individual perspectives, but it boils down to loyalty. Orpheus is the rightful Githyanki ruler, opposing Vlaakith's tyranny. A Githyanki player might naturally side with him. However, following Voss and Lae'zel's directives may seem overly demanding. The Gith prioritize their own kind above all else.

The Emperor, however, is generally benevolent, aiming to defeat the Netherbrain and aid the party. He acknowledges the necessity of sacrifice. Choosing him might lead to Mind Flayer transformation, but it's a morally upright path. BG3's multiple endings allow for various outcomes.