Should you give the tadpole to Astarion?
Astarion, one of the companions in Baldur’s Gate 3, is a fascinating character with a complex personality. He has a strong desire for power and will go to great lengths to achieve his goals. One of the key decisions players must make regarding Astarion is whether or not to give him the tadpole. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of giving Astarion the tadpole and help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your playthrough.
Benefits of giving Astarion the tadpole
• Increased power: Astarion’s stats will significantly improve, making him a more formidable combatant.
• Loyalty: Astarion will be more likely to stay with the party and will become a strong ally.
• Unique abilities: The tadpole will grant Astarion access to new abilities and skills, making him a more versatile character.
Drawbacks of giving Astarion the tadpole
• Moral implications: The tadpole is a powerful artifact that could be misused by Astarion for his own gain, potentially causing harm to others.
• Risk of betrayal: Astarion may become too powerful and could potentially betray the party or turn against other companions.
• Unpredictability: Giving Astarion the tadpole may introduce an element of unpredictability to the game, making it harder to control the story or manage party dynamics.
Other considerations
• Astarion’s motivations: Astarion’s desire for power is a primary driver of his actions. Giving him the tadpole may simply fuel this desire, leading to negative consequences down the line.
• Alternative solutions: There may be alternative solutions to gaining power and improving party dynamics that do not involve giving Astarion the tadpole.
• Astarion’s moral alignment: Astarion is an evil companion, and giving him the tadpole may simply align with his natural leanings. However, this does not mean that the party should blindly support him without considering the potential consequences.
Key quotes from the game
"Bah, power is for those who take it, not beg for it. And I’ll stop at nothing to get what I want."
- Astarion
"This gift is a chance to make a difference in this world. Don’t be foolish enough to let it slip through your fingers."
- Astarion
Conclusion
Deciding whether to give Astarion the tadpole is a critical choice that will impact the game’s narrative and party dynamics. While there are benefits to giving him the tadpole, there are also significant drawbacks to consider. As a player, it’s essential to weigh these factors and make an informed decision based on your understanding of Astarion’s motivations and the game’s mechanics.
Note: This article is based on the article "Should you give the tadpole to Astarion?" from https://www.vintageisthenewold.com/faq.