What happens if you take Raphael’s deal in Act 1?

What Happens If You Take Raphael’s Deal in Act 1?

In Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3, players are introduced to Raphael, a cunning and manipulative figure with a reputation for being unpredictable. As players progress through the story, they will be faced with a critical choice: to accept Raphael’s deal or to decline. In this article, we will explore the consequences of taking Raphael’s deal in Act 1 and examine the benefits and drawbacks of this choice.

Initial Consequences

Instant Benefits: By taking Raphael’s deal, players can expect an immediate influx of power and resources. Specifically, Raphael will give players the Orphic Hammer, a powerful item that will aid them in their future endeavors. This hammer can be used to defeat powerful enemies, as well as to break enemy defenses.

Approval/Dishonor: However, taking Raphael’s deal also comes with significant moral and social consequences. Each companion in the party will form an opinion about Raphael and the deal, ranging from Approval (approval) to Disapproving (dislike). Some companions will strongly disapprove of Raphael and the deal, which may lead to strained relationships with them in the future.

Debt: Upon accepting Raphael’s deal, players will also take on a significant debt. This debt is not explicitly stated in-game, but it implies a moral and possibly physical liability that must be addressed.

Unlocking New Pathways: Taking Raphael’s deal also unlocks new story pathways and possibilities, both in the immediate term and in the long term.

Future Consequences

Unlocking the Dark Side: By accepting Raphael’s deal, players essentially unleash the Dark Side within them. This will manifest as increased strength, cunning, and strategic abilities, but also carries the risk of losing touch with one’s moral compass.

Potential Allies: Raphael may not be the only figure of power willing to do business with the player. Depending on the choices made during the game, players may be able to cultivate alliances with other powerful forces, which may aid them in the future.

Enemies: Accepting Raphael’s deal can also create enemies, both human and non-human. Powerful forces, driven by ideology or personal motives, may view the player as a threat to be eliminated.

Tangled Web of Loyalties

Bonds with Allies: Players will also experience complicated bonds with allies. Depending on the choices made during the game, allies may start to see the player differently, possibly leading to shifts in loyalty and alliances.

Shadowheart: The paladin Shadowheart, in particular, may harbor mixed feelings about Raphael’s deal, as he had previously considered Raphael to be a mentor. Players who take Raphael’s deal should be prepared for potentially troubled relationships with Shadowheart and other allies.

Summary

In conclusion, accepting Raphael’s deal in Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3 will have far-reaching consequences. While players will receive a powerful ally and the potential for future benefits, they will also incur moral debts, lose moral credibility, and risk creating powerful enemies. Ultimately, this decision will define the path taken by the player for the remainder of the game and beyond.

Timeline Table