**Introduction: What’s Up with Astarion’s Approval in Act 2?**
If you’re deep into *Baldur’s Gate 3* (BG3), you probably already know that Astarion, the charming yet mysterious vampire rogue, is one of the most complicated characters to please. And when it comes to his approval in Act 2, things get tricky. If you’re struggling to maintain or increase his approval, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Let’s dive into why Astarion’s approval in Act 2 feels like walking on a tightrope, and how you can avoid falling off.
**Why Does Astarion’s Approval Matter?**
Astarion’s approval is important not only because it affects your relationship with him but also because it impacts your interactions, quests, and overall story progression. Keeping Astarion happy can unlock new dialogue, special cutscenes, and even romantic opportunities (if that’s what you’re aiming for). But here’s the kicker: getting his approval can be as confusing as reading a vampire’s mind. His preferences and actions in Act 2 can feel unpredictable, making players wonder what exactly he wants from you.
**The Problem: What’s Going Wrong in Act 2?**
So, what makes Astarion’s approval so tricky in Act 2? Well, as you progress through the story, his mood swings a lot. Sometimes, a small decision can make him either love you or hate you – and trust us, you don’t want to get on his bad side. He’s a vampire, and while he might act like he’s got it all under control, his approval seems to fluctuate based on actions that might seem totally unrelated to him. For example, one moment, he loves when you show mercy, and the next, he’ll be disappointed if you hesitate to act ruthlessly.
What’s worse is that some players have reported that even though they try to please him by aligning with his darker tendencies, his approval just doesn’t seem to move. It’s frustrating when you’re putting in the effort but feel like you’re hitting a wall.
**The Cause: Is There a Reason for the Trouble?**
The reason behind Astarion’s difficult approval in Act 2 is mostly tied to his complex character development. Unlike other companions, he isn’t just interested in the usual good or bad decisions you make; he’s obsessed with power, freedom, and controlling his fate. In Act 2, these themes are more pronounced, and every choice you make might seem like a test of his views on those matters.
Additionally, some players have found that the game’s decision-making system in Act 2 doesn’t always provide the clearest feedback. For example, Astarion might react positively to one choice and negatively to another, even if the choices seem similar on the surface. This leaves many players feeling confused about what exactly they need to do to earn his approval.
**Solution: How Can You Improve Astarion’s Approval?**
If you’re feeling like you’re walking on eggshells around Astarion, here are some tips to keep him on your side in Act 2:
1. **Be Confident in Your Decisions:** Astarion likes power, and he respects characters who take charge of situations. If you show uncertainty or indecisiveness, he’ll quickly lose interest in you. Always make decisions that reflect strength, even if they aren’t necessarily the “right” choice.
2. **Understand His Background:** Astarion’s past is full of trauma and darkness, so keeping this in mind will help guide your decisions. He’s not the type of person to shy away from immoral choices. In fact, he may even appreciate it when you lean into the more chaotic, darker aspects of the game.
3. **Balance Mercy and Ruthlessness:** This is the trickiest part. Astarion loves when you’re not afraid to do what needs to be done, but he also respects your ability to show mercy in certain situations. You’ll need to find the balance – going too far in either direction may cost you his approval.
4. **Build Up Your Relationship Over Time:** Astarion’s approval won’t just depend on a single choice. Keep engaging with him, talking to him, and showing him that you understand his nature. Building a strong relationship with him requires patience.
**What Do Other Players Think?**
When it comes to player feedback, there’s a mixed bag of reactions. Some players have expressed frustration with the lack of clear guidance on how to improve Astarion’s approval. A few players on forums have even joked about how they’re terrified of Astarion, fearing that any wrong move will ruin their chances with him forever.
Others, however, have shared that once they understood Astarion’s deeper motivations, they found it much easier to gain his approval. Many have recommended watching out for his more subtle reactions, like his body language and tone during conversations. These details can give you hints about what he’s thinking, which can be a game-changer.
**Conclusion: Can You Win Astarion’s Heart?**
To wrap up, Astarion’s approval in Act 2 is a challenge that demands patience, understanding, and a willingness to embrace the darker side of decision-making. But with the right choices, you can not only please him but unlock one of the most intriguing companion arcs in the game. So, next time you’re talking to Astarion, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and remember: it’s all about power, control, and maybe a little bit of dark humor.
**What About You?**
Have you had any success or failure in gaining Astarion’s approval in Act 2? Share your experiences and tips in the comments – maybe we can help each other out!
