Baldur\'s Gate 3: Should You Free Orpheus?

In Baldur's Gate 3, one of the most pivotal choices occurs near the game's conclusion: freeing the imprisoned Githyanki Prince Orpheus or allowing the Emperor to handle the situation. This decision, made after acquiring the Orphic Hammer, significantly impacts the party's fate.

Updated February 29, 2024: Before confronting this choice, players must defeat Ketheric Throm, Lord Enver Gortash, and Orin. This requires thorough exploration of Baldur's Gate's upper and lower districts. The decision's weight is amplified by the possibility of companion sacrifices. High skill checks (potentially 30) might be needed to influence companion decisions.

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

Should You Free Orpheus?

The choice hinges on player preferences. The Emperor warns that freeing Orpheus risks party members becoming Illithids (Mind Flayers).

After the Netherbrain encounter, the choice is presented within the Astral Prism: free Orpheus or let the Emperor absorb his power.

Siding with the Emperor: This results in Orpheus's demise as the Emperor absorbs his knowledge. Lae'zel and Karlach may disapprove, impacting their personal quests. While this aids in defeating the Netherbrain, it might alienate players attached to these characters.

Freeing Orpheus: This causes the Emperor to align with the Netherbrain. A party member might become a Mind Flayer. However, Orpheus joins the fight against the Netherbrain, and offers to become a Mind Flayer to save his people if asked.

In short, choose the Emperor to avoid Mind Flayer transformation, and free Orpheus if you accept that risk for your party or companions. The Emperor's choice might lead to Lae'zel's antagonism and Karlach's return to Avernus.

Moral Considerations:

The "good" choice depends on individual perspectives, but centers on loyalty. Orpheus, as a Githyanki descendant, is the rightful ruler, opposing Vlaakith's tyranny. A Githyanki player might naturally side with him. However, following Voss and Lae'zel's directives might seem overly demanding. The Gith prioritize themselves, even if impacting the wider world.

The Emperor is generally benevolent, aiming to defeat the Netherbrain and aid the party. He acknowledges necessary sacrifices. Choosing him might lead to Mind Flayer transformation, but offers a morally upright (albeit tentacled) outcome. Remember, BG3 offers multiple endings; strategic choices might yield favorable results for all.