In the expansive narrative of Baldur’s Gate 3, the journey of Gale Dekarios is one of the most intriguing character arcs, filled with magic, ambition, and the potential for godhood. For players exploring every possible outcome, the question of how to ascend Gale to godhood becomes a fascinating one. This path is tied deeply to his backstory, motivations, and the influence of ancient arcane power. Reaching this ending is not simply about choosing dialogue options it involves understanding Gale’s inner desires, making specific choices across acts, and navigating moral dilemmas. This guide will walk you through exactly how to achieve Gale’s ascension to godhood in Baldur’s Gate 3.
Understanding Gale’s Backstory and Ambitions
The Origins of Gale’s Power
Gale is a human wizard from Waterdeep with exceptional magical talent. His hunger for power drove him to seek favor from Mystra, the goddess of magic. However, after defying her by attempting to absorb a dangerous Netherese artifact, he was left with a magical bomb embedded in his chest. This bomb is known as the orb, and it becomes a major plot point throughout the game.
While Gale seeks redemption and hopes to prove himself to Mystra again, there is also a darker potential within him: the desire to ascend to godhood himself. This outcome is only achievable under particular circumstances and requires players to align with specific forces by the game’s conclusion.
Key Choices in Early Acts
Keep Gale in Your Party
To begin the path toward godhood for Gale, he must remain active in your party throughout the story. Engage in conversations with him regularly, and build a positive relationship. Avoid decisions that would cause him to leave or distrust you.
Reject Mystra’s Redemption
During Act 1 and Act 2, Gale occasionally expresses a desire to redeem himself in the eyes of Mystra. To push him toward the godhood path, you must reject or question this desire. Support Gale’s independent power, and express doubt about Mystra’s control over his fate.
During a camp conversation where Gale contemplates returning to Mystra’s service, guide him to embrace his own potential instead. Encourage him to think beyond being her servant.
The Importance of the Crown of Karsus
What is the Crown of Karsus?
The Crown of Karsus is a powerful Netherese artifact that plays a major role in Act 3. This crown is part of the Absolute’s power and is sought after by multiple factions. Gale, with his deep interest in ancient magic, becomes obsessed with it once you reach the final parts of the game.
Letting Gale Take the Crown
To ascend Gale to godhood, you must allow him to take the Crown of Karsus during Act 3. This means siding with him when he proposes to claim the crown for himself. A dialogue scene will occur where he reveals his plan: to use the crown’s power to become a god and reshape the Weave itself.
There will be options to support or oppose this plan. To follow through with his ascension, you must fully support him, even when others warn against it. Your approval rating with Gale will also influence whether he trusts you enough to follow through with the plan together.
Reaching the Final Decision
During the Final Battle
At the end of the game, during the battle atop the Netherbrain, Gale can be offered the opportunity to use the Crown of Karsus to destroy the Absolute and seize divine power. This moment is the culmination of all your previous decisions related to Gale’s independence and ambition.
If you have supported Gale consistently, and if he has maintained trust in you, he will present a clear path: absorb the crown’s power and ascend to godhood. You must choose the dialogue option that allows him to proceed.
Accept the Consequences
Choosing this path changes the ending significantly. Gale will use the crown’s magic to transcend mortality. He will become a new god of magic or arcane balance, reshaping the magical structure of Faerûn. This outcome may disrupt the balance of divine powers and is viewed with skepticism by some companions.
Notably, the rest of your party may disagree with the decision, and you could lose trust or relationships depending on their moral views. However, it’s a valid and impactful ending, highlighting Gale’s arc from flawed mortal to divine figure.
Dialogue and Companion Influence
Encouraging Gale’s Confidence
Throughout the game, use dialogue options that praise Gale’s intelligence and potential. Avoid mocking his past mistakes or diminishing his ambitions. Even when his ego shows, reinforcing his belief in his own power helps push him toward the godhood path.
Dealing with Other Party Members
Characters like Shadowheart, Wyll, or Karlach may question Gale’s decision to pursue godhood. You may need to navigate conflicting party opinions by making careful choices. In some cases, disagreements won’t matter, but in others, they can lead to friction or disapproval.
If approval ratings are critical to you, save before key conversations and experiment with dialogue until you achieve your desired outcome without alienating important allies.
Alternative Outcomes to Consider
If You Refuse the Godhood Path
Choosing to stop Gale or destroy the Crown will lead to different endings. Gale may either redeem himself in Mystra’s eyes or remain a powerful, yet mortal, wizard. These outcomes offer their own narrative depth but are distinct from the godhood path.
If Gale Dies
If Gale dies at any point in the story, especially before Act 3, the godhood ending becomes impossible. Be sure to protect him in combat and manage your party’s survival carefully. His resurrection is possible, but missing key moments will prevent the ending from triggering.
Summary of Required Steps
- Keep Gale in your party from Act 1 onward
- Reject Mystra’s redemption and support Gale’s independence
- Let Gale take the Crown of Karsus in Act 3
- Choose dialogue supporting Gale’s ascension during the final battle
- Accept the consequences of disrupting the divine balance
A New God is Born
Ascending Gale to godhood in Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of the most powerful and narratively rich outcomes available in the game. It showcases a unique character evolution, transforming a remorseful wizard into a self-made deity. This path is built on trust, support, and ambition and ultimately represents a rejection of control by gods like Mystra. For players seeking a bold and magical conclusion, guiding Gale to divine ascension delivers one of the most unforgettable endings in the Forgotten Realms.