In Baldur's Gate 3's climactic moment, players face a pivotal choice: free the imprisoned Githyanki Prince Orpheus or allow the Emperor to handle the situation. This decision, made after acquiring the Orphic Hammer, profoundly impacts the party's fate and the world's destiny.
Updated February 29, 2024: Before confronting this choice, players must defeat Ketheric Throm, Lord Enver Gortash, and Orin, requiring thorough exploration of Baldur's Gate's upper and lower districts. This final decision carries significant weight; some companions might sacrifice themselves. Successfully navigating these interactions, especially the Netherbrain battle, often requires high skill checks (potentially a 30 roll).
Spoiler Warning: The following discusses the game's ending.
Should You Free Orpheus?
This depends entirely on player preference. Early in Act 3, the Emperor warns that Orpheus' imprisonment prevents party members from becoming Illithids. Freeing him risks this transformation.
After the Netherbrain encounter (if failed), the Emperor teleports the party to the Astral Prism, presenting the choice: free Orpheus or let the Emperor absorb his power.
Siding with the Emperor: This leads to Orpheus' demise as the Emperor absorbs his knowledge. Lae'zel and Karlach might disapprove, impacting their personal quests. While this ensures victory over the Netherbrain, it might alienate players attached to these characters.
Freeing Orpheus: This causes the Emperor to ally with the Netherbrain. The risk of party members becoming Mind Flayers remains. However, Orpheus joins the fight alongside the Githyanki. Interestingly, he'll even willingly become a Mind Flayer to save his people if asked.
In short: Choose the Emperor to avoid becoming a Mind Flayer; free Orpheus if you're willing to risk it. The Emperor's choice might cause Lae'zel to turn against you and force Karlach's return to Avernus. The ultimate choice rests with the player.
Moral Considerations:
The "good" choice depends on individual perspectives. It largely hinges 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 to others. The Gith prioritize themselves, even if influencing the wider world.
The Emperor, conversely, 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. Remember, BG3 offers multiple endings, so strategic choices can lead to outcomes beneficial to all.
