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

In Baldur's Gate 3's climactic moment, players face a pivotal decision: free the imprisoned Githyanki Prince Orpheus or let the Emperor handle him. This choice, made after acquiring the Orphic Hammer, significantly impacts the game's ending.

Updated February 29, 2024: Before this decision, players must defeat Ketheric Throm, Lord Enver Gortash, and Orin. This requires thorough exploration of Baldur's Gate's upper and lower districts. The choice also carries significant weight; companions might sacrifice themselves. High skill checks (30+) may be needed to influence companion decisions.

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

Freeing Orpheus or Siding with the Emperor?

This decision hinges on player preference. The Emperor warns that freeing Orpheus risks party members becoming Illithids (Mind Flayers).

After the Netherbrain battle (which the Emperor teleports the party to after a failed attempt), the choice presents itself: liberate Orpheus or allow the Emperor to absorb his power.

• Siding with the Emperor: Orpheus is absorbed, potentially upsetting Lae'zel and Karlach due to its impact on their personal quests. While this provides an advantage against the Netherbrain, it might not be the most satisfying outcome for some players.

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

In short: choose the Emperor to avoid Mind Flayer transformation; choose Orpheus to risk it. The Emperor's choice might alienate Lae'zel and send Karlach back to Avernus.

The Moral Dilemma:

The "moral" choice depends on player values, but it boils down to loyalty. Orpheus is the rightful Githyanki ruler, opposing Vlaakith's tyranny. A Githyanki player might naturally side with him. However, following Voss and Lae'zel's demands might seem overly forceful. The Gith prioritize themselves, even if their actions affect the wider world.

The Emperor, on the other hand, is generally benevolent, aiming to defeat the Netherbrain and help the party. He accepts that sacrifices might be necessary. Following his plan might lead to Mind Flayer transformation, but it's a morally upright path. BG3 offers multiple endings; strategic choices can lead to a favorable outcome for everyone.