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Baldur's Gate 3 Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You in BG3?
Image via PerfectParadox Youtube channel

Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You In Baldur’s Gate 3?

Ritik UpadhyayBy Ritik UpadhyayUpdated:December 26, 20233 Mins Read PC August 23, 2023
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When playing Baldur’s Gate 3, you will often come across choices that will, in some ways, affect your characters throughout the game. One such decision is whether should you let the Emperor evolve you, who turns out to be a Mind Flayer. This decision has far-reaching consequences, both good and bad.

Now, let’s find out what exactly the consequences are for this decision.

On This Page

  • What Happens If You Let The Emperor Evolve You?
  • What Happens If You Refuse To Evolve?
  • Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You?

What Happens If You Let The Emperor Evolve You In Baldur’s Gate 3?

The aftermath of letting the Emperor evolve you comes at the cost of the physical appearance of your character. When you decide to accept the evolved Tadpole from the Emperor, you are granted exceptional Illithid powers that will prove to be a boon for you during the fights in the game. These powers can range from Fracture Psyche, Counterspell, Beast Shape, Charisma, and more.

To attain these powers, the recommended option to choose during the dialogues is the “Open your mind to the tadpole” as it lets you as well as your team members benefit from the Illithid powers. On the other hand, if you tend to choose the “Eat it” option, it would restrict the powers to only your character.

Baldur's Gate 3 Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You in BG3?
Consequence of Evolving (snippet via PerfectParadox Youtube channel)

Coming back to the consequences of this choice, your physical appearance is affected, turning the veins black and visible on your body and face. Additionally, your team members won’t be pleased with the decision after they find out that the Emperor turns out to be the Mind Flayer rather than the Dream Guardian. Moreover, if you let the Emperor evolve you, it might feel like taking the side of the Emperor instead of Orpheus when reaching the end of the game.

What Happens If You Refuse To Evolve?

Now there are chances that you might choose to refuse to evolve completely by choosing the option “No, I won’t do it”. Thankfully, there are no dire consequences to this choice as the Emperor doesn’t get displeased with your decision and respects it.

Baldur's Gate 3 Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You in BG3?
Dialogue options (snippet via PerfectParadox Youtube channel)

However, you still get to keep the tadpole in your inventory and can use it anytime in the game if you wish to access the Illithid powers at your disposal. Additionally, you will keep your current physical appearance intact and safe from the Emperor’s influence.

Should You Let The Emperor Evolve You In BG3?

It is totally up to you to decide whether you wish to let the Emperor evolve you or refuse it. During the encounter, the Emperor tries his best to influence you and your team members into taking the tadpole and evolving, stating that you all will eventually turn into an Illithid regardless of the choices.

Although, it is not true as only one of your team members needs to be an Illithid during the fight against the cult and beat the game. Therefore, not all of the members have to pay the price of the physical appearance for the powers. Additionally, you can still set Orpheus free without giving the Netherstones to the Emperor.

should you let the Emperor evolve you in BG3
Snippet via PerfectParadox Youtube channel

In conclusion, it’s all up to you whether you wish to make your game journey easier with the powers at hand or refuse the Emperor completely.

That was all for the guide on whether should you let the Emperor evolve you in BG3. If you are stuck in a dilemma about whether to romance the Guardian, here’s our guide on that.

Baldur's Gate 3
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Ritik Upadhyay
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Ritik is a Guides Writer at GamesHorizon. He is passionate about gaming, TV shows, movies, and storytelling in general and is always on the lookout for the next thrilling adventure.

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