Astarion, the enigmatic High Elf Rogue companion in Baldur’s Gate 3, is known for his sharp wit, cunning nature, and a certain… vampiric charm. Gaining his approval can unlock deeper interactions, advance his personal questline, and potentially lead to a more intimate relationship. If you’re looking to win over this pale-skinned rogue, this guide will walk you through key actions, particularly in the early stages of the game, to boost your approval rating with Astarion.
This guide focuses on actions around the Druid Grove and early encounters, providing a roadmap to quickly gain Astarion’s favor. Remember, Astarion appreciates pragmatism, self-interest, and a touch of mischief. Let’s dive into the actions that will earn you his approval.
Navigating the Druid Grove and Goblin Conflict:
After the intense battle at the gates of the Druid Grove, your interactions within and around this area are crucial for establishing your relationship with Astarion.
Astarion observing the Druid Grove from a distance
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Exiting the Grove with Astarion: Upon entering the Druid Grove after the initial battle, ensure Astarion is the only companion in your active party. He will have an exclamation mark above his head, indicating a dialogue prompt. Speak with him and agree to leave the Grove temporarily. This shows you value his input and are willing to consider his perspective, earning approval. You can re-enter the Grove immediately after, so there’s no need to worry about missing content.
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Demanding Payment from Tiefling Leader: When speaking with the Tiefling leader, Zevlor, after resolving the initial conflict, choose dialogue options that demand payment for your assistance. Astarion favors assertive and self-serving actions, and asking for compensation aligns with his pragmatic worldview.
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Refusing Refugee Assistance (Initially): When Zevlor requests help with the refugees, initially refuse. This might seem counterintuitive if you’re aiming for a “good” playthrough, but Astarion appreciates a degree of detachment and prioritizing your own goals. Think of it as playing the “tsundere” archetype – seemingly cold but with a hidden soft side. You can always circle back and help the refugees later if you wish, without losing Astarion’s approval gained from this initial refusal.
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Ethel and the Tadpole Deception: Locate Auntie Ethel along the left path as you enter the Grove’s main area, near the old woman cooking. Approach her only with Astarion in your party. Agree to speak with her and when prompted, tell Ethel that you have a Tadpole. Astarion enjoys deception and manipulation, especially when it serves your interests.
Resting and Camp Interactions:
Your camp is a vital space for companion interactions and approval-gaining opportunities.
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Gale’s Transformation and “How Do You Want to Die” Scene: During a long rest, you may trigger a scene with Gale about his magical condition. Following this, speak to Astarion. A particular dialogue option, often referred to as the “how do you want to die scene,” where you discuss methods of execution like poisoning or beheading, will gain you approval. Note: This scene may be slightly RNG-dependent and might not trigger every playthrough. Player reports vary on its consistency.
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Goblin Makeshift Prison Incident: Near the Grove, you’ll encounter goblins tormenting a prisoner. Do not interfere with the goblins killing the prisoner. After the event, talk to Astarion and select the dialogue option, “when they are cornered they’ll do whatever to survive.” This reflects a cynical and realistic outlook that resonates with Astarion.
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“Stars Cutscene” Rest Event: Continue resting until you trigger the “stars cutscene” event. This is a key moment in the early game narrative and progresses companion storylines.
Petty Theft and Bard Criticism:
Astarion appreciates a bit of mischievous behavior and isn’t afraid to express his opinions, even if they are harsh.
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Pocketing the Kid’s Ring: In the Grove, a child possesses a ring. Instead of simply stealing it, engage in dialogue and choose the option “I’m paying in experience” when taking the ring. While stealing might also grant approval (untested), the dialogue option adds a layer of dark humor Astarion enjoys.
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“Quite a Show” to Kagha: After witnessing Kagha’s harsh judgment and actions in the Grove, speak to her and remark, “it was quite a show.” Astarion appreciates your acknowledgement of power dynamics and isn’t afraid of social awkwardness.
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Bad Bard Critique: Locate the bard practicing on the left path in the Grove’s heart. Offer to “help” initially, inquire about her song’s meaning, then critique her lyrics as bad, and finally, tell her she is a bad bard outright. Astarion enjoys directness and isn’t afraid to be critical.
Arpies, Soul Coins, and Demon Deals:
These encounters offer further chances to align with Astarion’s preferences.
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Scaring the Child Saved from Harpies: After rescuing the child from the Harpies, instead of offering comfort, choose to scare him. Astarion finds amusement in such actions.
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Soul Coin Deception: When saving the Tiefling from the assassin, lie to acquire her soul coin. This action advances Astarion’s background goals and grants inspiration, both of which he approves of.
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Nettie and the Wyvern Poison: When dealing with Nettie, the healer, in the Enclave, bring only Astarion. Choosing to kill Nettie will result in Astarion calling you an “idiot” (disapproval). If you obtain the Wyvern Poison, you will initially receive disapproval. However, you can regain approval by later telling Astarion you were lying to Nettie about using it.
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Raphael Encounter and Demon Rejection: During a rest, Raphael, the devil, will appear. Refuse to make a deal with him. Afterwards, speak with Astarion and tell him, “we won’t be his playthings.” Astarion values independence and dislikes being controlled, so rejecting a devil’s bargain and asserting your autonomy will please him.
Post-Dream and Lae’zel Arrival:
Even after recruiting Lae’zel and experiencing the first dream sequence, opportunities to gain Astarion’s approval continue.
- Zorru and Kneeling: When encountering Zorru with Lae’zel in your party, instruct Zorru to kneel. While the approval outcome of this specific action is debated among players, it thematically aligns with Astarion’s enjoyment of dominance and subservience, and may still grant approval or at least not cause disapproval.
By consistently making choices that align with Astarion’s personality – prioritizing self-interest, appreciating cunning, and embracing a touch of darkness – you’ll find his approval rating soaring, opening up richer interactions and a deeper connection with this fascinating companion in Baldur’s Gate 3. Remember to experiment and observe his reactions to your choices to further refine your approach and solidify your bond with Astarion.
