Gamers diving into Baldur’s Gate 3 have recently been chatting about which companions they tend to leave out as they move through the story. While there’s no obligation to recruit every companion on your journey, doing so can significantly alter the narrative.
Upon its 2023 release, Baldur’s Gate 3 was quickly praised for its companions, who bring rich, individualized stories to the table. Each companion has their distinct character and questlines, allowing players to guide them along various paths. The outcomes of these personal stories can vary wildly, often hinging on whether you steer them toward becoming their best selves or not. This narrative depth provides ample reason for replaying the game multiple times, as experiencing every companion’s story fully can take several turns through the game.
A lively discussion started by user PunchBeard on Reddit asked gamers which companions they habitually leave behind. Unsurprisingly, there were numerous opinions, but some recurring themes emerged. Many players mentioned switching companions based on which quest they were tackling, a strategy that helps maximize the game’s richness. Companions like Jaheira, Halsin, and Minsc often found themselves benched, particularly Minsc due to his late entry into the game. By then, players usually feel comfortable with their established team, making it tough for newcomers to fit in seamlessly.
Even among the typically well-liked companions, there were a few dissenters. For example, one player admitted to always leaving Lae’zel behind because “she’s mean to me,” while another found Shadowheart to be “immensely annoying,” opting to leave her behind at camp. Some have different criteria altogether, prioritizing party composition over character personality. Karlach and Lae’zel often compete for a spot because of their similarities as a Barbarian and Fighter, respectively.
As Baldur’s Gate 3 gears up for Patch 8, the era of post-launch updates is winding down for Larian Studios. The upcoming patch promises exciting features like Photo Mode, crossplay, and a slew of new subclasses, serving as a grand conclusion to this CRPG’s journey. Currently, stress tests for Patch 8 are underway, though the exact release date remains under wraps. Beyond this, Larian is anticipated to be focusing its efforts on an undisclosed new project, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what’s next.
