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

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

Updated February 29, 2024: Before this decision, players must defeat Ketheric Throm, Lord Enver Gortash, and Orin, exploring Baldur's Gate's upper and lower districts. This final choice carries significant weight; companions might sacrifice themselves, requiring high skill checks (potentially a 30 roll) to influence their actions.

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

Should You Free Orpheus?

This depends entirely on player preference and desired playthrough. The Emperor warns that freeing Orpheus risks party members becoming Illithids (Mind Flayers).

After the Netherbrain encounter (if failed), 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 grants an advantage against the Netherbrain, it may alienate players attached to these characters.

Freeing Orpheus: This causes the Emperor to potentially ally with the Netherbrain. The risk of party members becoming Mind Flayers remains. However, Orpheus joins the fight against the Netherbrain, and will even willingly become a Mind Flayer to save his people if asked.

In short: Choose the Emperor to avoid Mind Flayer transformation; choose Orpheus if you're willing to risk it. The Emperor's choice might lead to Lae'zel's betrayal and Karlach's return to Avernus.

The Moral Choice?

This hinges on player interpretation of morality. Orpheus, as a rightful Githyanki ruler, opposes 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 their own kind, even if impacting the wider world.

The Emperor, generally benevolent, aims to stop 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. Remember, BG3 offers multiple endings, allowing for outcomes that benefit everyone.