**Introduction: Should You Let Astarion Ascend?**
So, you’re playing *Baldur’s Gate 3* and you’ve reached that critical moment: Astarion, the charming and rather mischievous vampire, is asking you whether you should let him ascend. Now, you’re probably thinking, “What does that even mean?” Is it a good idea? Should I let him go full vampire on me, or should I be cautious?
In this article, we’ll dive into the question: *BG3 should I let Astarion ascend?* Let’s break it down in a way that makes it fun, informative, and a little bit dramatic — just like Astarion himself!
**What Does “Ascend” Mean for Astarion?**
Before we get to the tough decisions, let’s quickly explain what *ascending* really means. In *Baldur’s Gate 3*, Astarion’s ascension is tied to his vampiric nature and the choices you make during the game. If you let him ascend, he gains powerful abilities but also becomes more dangerous, more… well, *Astarion-like*.
However, ascension isn’t just about power. It’s a moral choice. Are you willing to let your trusted companion become more dangerous, or will you try to stop him? This decision could impact your relationship with Astarion, and, in some cases, the entire party. So, before you jump into this decision, let’s consider a few important points.
**The Impact on Gameplay: What Happens if You Let Astarion Ascend?**
Let’s be honest. This choice can shake up your game in ways you might not expect. If you let Astarion ascend, he gets access to stronger abilities. But those abilities come with a price — more temptation, more darkness. Astarion will be even more difficult to control, and there’s a chance he’ll start pushing you to make more morally questionable decisions.
On the other hand, refusing to let him ascend doesn’t leave you empty-handed. You might preserve the moral balance, keep the party from falling into chaos, and avoid possible heartbreak down the road. Sometimes, it’s about thinking long-term: Is this really a friend you can trust with that much power?
**The Emotional Side: Is It Worth It?**
From an emotional perspective, letting Astarion ascend is a roller coaster. One moment, you’ll feel like you’ve made a bold choice; the next, you might feel the weight of his new abilities — and the consequences of letting him slip deeper into darkness.
On one hand, you’re empowering your companion. On the other hand, Astarion is not exactly known for his self-restraint. If you enjoy the drama of a character who constantly tests your limits, this could be the moment you’ve been waiting for.
**What Do Other Players Think About This Choice?**
Now let’s take a quick look at the *Baldur’s Gate 3* community. Players on forums like Reddit and in various gaming communities have shared their experiences with Astarion’s ascension. Some have expressed excitement at the power boost, while others have cautioned against it, saying that it makes Astarion even more manipulative and dangerous.
One user mentioned, “I thought letting Astarion ascend would be fun, but I ended up regretting it when he started demanding more and more from me. Be careful what you wish for!” Another player said, “It was a tough decision, but I love how it added tension to my relationship with him. It was a bold move, but I was ready for the challenge!”
It’s clear that the community has mixed feelings about this choice. Some love the added drama, while others wish they’d stuck to a safer option.
**Solutions: Should You Let Astarion Ascend or Not?**
So, now that we’ve analyzed the situation, what should you do? Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice for your playthrough:
– **Play for Power:** If you’re in it for the power and don’t mind a darker path, let Astarion ascend. You’ll get a more powerful ally, but be prepared for some consequences down the line.
– **Play for Morality:** If you’re more interested in keeping things balanced and avoiding chaos, don’t let him ascend. It’ll be a safer choice for your party and your moral compass.
– **Consider the Drama:** If you’re into emotional roller coasters and love the idea of seeing your companions go through some personal growth (or destruction), letting him ascend might add some great tension to your story.
**Final Thoughts: What Will You Do?**
Ultimately, the choice of whether to let Astarion ascend is up to you. It’s one of those big *Baldur’s Gate 3* moments where your decision can completely change the direction of your game.
So, what do you think? Will you let Astarion embrace his full vampiric powers, or will you stop him from making that choice? Either way, it’s going to be one heck of a ride.
**Did you experience a similar dilemma in *BG3*? How did you handle Astarion’s ascension? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!**
**Conclusion**
In the end, deciding whether to let Astarion ascend is a choice that can shape your entire game. Whether you lean into the chaos or opt for a safer, more controlled path, remember: *Baldur’s Gate 3* is all about making difficult decisions. So, pick wisely, and enjoy the ride!
