BG3: The Consequences of Kicking Astarion

Astarion, the brooding and enigmatic vampire spawn, is a charismatic companion in Baldur's Gate 3. However, his dark nature and the potential consequences of his actions may lead players to consider kicking him out of their party.

Understanding the Consequences

Kicking Astarion will have immediate and long-term repercussions that can impact the storyline and gameplay:

Immediate Consequences:

• Loss of Astarion's Abilities: His unique vampire abilities, such as Charm and Feast, will no longer be available to the party.
• Tension with Existing Party Members: Certain party members, like Shadowheart, may express disapproval of Astarion's absence.
• Missed Dialogue and Quests: Kicking Astarion will prevent players from experiencing his storyline and side quests, which may offer valuable insights and rewards.

Long-Term Consequences:

• Altered Main Storyline: Astarion's presence influences major plot points and character interactions. Kicking him may result in significant changes to the narrative.
• Missed Romantic Options: Astarion is one of the main romanceable characters in BG3. Dismissing him will eliminate this romantic possibility.
• Reduced Party Strength: Astarion's combat prowess and utility spells can contribute significantly to the party's overall effectiveness.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Pros of Kicking Astarion:

• Removes Potential Conflict: Astarion's dark nature and questionable actions can create tension within the party, which can be avoided by dismissing him.
• Increased Party Cohesion: Party members who disapprove of Astarion's presence may become more cooperative and loyal if he is removed.
• Tailored Gameplay: Players can customize their party to align with their playstyle and values by eliminating Astarion.

Cons of Kicking Astarion:

• Loss of Valuable Abilities: Astarion's unique vampire abilities offer significant advantages in both combat and role-playing situations.
• Missed Storyline and Quests: Players who enjoy Astarion's character and want to explore his storyline will miss out on valuable content.
• Potential Regret: Players may later regret kicking Astarion, especially if they realize they missed crucial dialogue or missed romantic opportunities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Kicking Astarion Early: Dismissing Astarion early in the game may result in missing out on significant story elements and rewards.
• Not Considering Party Dynamics: Kicking Astarion without considering party cohesion can lead to disharmony and conflicts among party members.
• Making a Rash Decision: Players should carefully consider the long-term consequences before kicking Astarion, as it cannot be reversed once done.

Conclusion

Kicking Astarion is a significant decision that can have both immediate and long-term consequences for gameplay and the narrative in Baldur's Gate 3. Players should weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider party dynamics, and avoid common mistakes before making this choice. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to kick Astarion should be based on individual playstyles, preferences, and the desired story outcome.