Unleashing the Dark Side: Unlocking the Vampire Ascendant Path for Astarion in Baldur's Gate 3

Deciding whether Astarion should become a Vampire Ascendant is a critical choice for players seeking to complete his storyline in Baldur's Gate 3. Astarion has endured years of oppression under the Cazador and desires revenge above all else. However, players are presented with the option to allow Astarion to fulfill his transformation into a Vampire Ascendant or prevent it after the ritual is disrupted.

On one hand, embracing this path will grant Astarion unimaginable power. On the other hand, it will result in the deaths of numerous innocent creatures. This guide aims to assist players in comprehending the advantages and disadvantages associated with each decision in Baldur's Gate 3.

Option 1: Astarion Becomes a Vampire Ascendant

After Astarion removes Cazador from the coffin, he will uncover the purpose behind the carved runes on his back. It is revealed that any vampire bearing these scars will meet their demise during the ritual. Motivated by the desire to avenge his greatest adversary and attain ultimate power, Astarion will implore the protagonist to employ the parasite in order to glimpse the runes on his own back and replicate them on Cazador. Should the players consent, a ritual will commence, resulting in the death of 7,000 creatures, including Cazador.

Upon his ascension, Astarion will acquire the following abilities:

- Unarmed and weapon Attack rolls inflict an additional 1d10 Necrotic Damage.

- Ascendant Bite: A melee attack that causes 6d6 Healing and 6d6 Necrotic Damage. Humanoid targets affected by this attack become Bloodless, and Astarion gains the Happy status effect.

Rewritten content:

Misty Escape: Astarion's physical form transforms into a gaseous state, rendering him nearly impervious to harm. While in this state, he is unable to take any actions.

During the final battle, Astarion proves to be an invaluable ally, greatly bolstering the party's strength. However, a darker aspect of his nature emerges. He becomes consumed by megalomania, constantly seeking approval and becoming somewhat unbearable. Despite this drawback, the extraordinary abilities he gains as a Vampire Ascendant make it a worthwhile sacrifice, especially for those who do not prioritize the lives of 7,000 vampires.

Option 2: Astarion Doesn’t Become a Vampire Ascendant

If players wish to prevent the ritual, they should approach this situation with caution. Should fans agree to assist but ultimately disrupt the ritual, it will lead to Astarion becoming infuriated, resulting in the death of Cazador and his departure from the party. Alternatively, to dissuade Astarion from going through with the ritual, the protagonist must inform him about the numerous lives that will be lost and that he will not feel proud of his actions.

However, while Astarion will still kill Cazador, he will be relieved to have avoided becoming a Vampire Ascendant. He will continue to exhibit the same arrogant, humorous, and amusing traits that players adore. Furthermore, the fate of the spawn can be decided by releasing them, eliminating them, or simply keeping them in confinement. It is worth noting that the other companions will express gratitude if the ritual is prevented from taking place.

Baldur's Gate 3 is available now on PC and PS5, with an Xbox Series X version also in development.