How to Defeat the Elder Brain in Baldur's Gate 3
Game Information
- Game Name: Baldur's Gate 3
- Developer: Larian Studios
- Initial Release Date: October 6, 2020 / Full Release Date: August 3, 2023
- Genre: Role-playing
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Google Stadia
Introduction
The Elder Brain in Baldur's Gate 3 is a daunting challenge, ruling over a mind flayer colony in the Gauntlet of Shar. This guide will provide a comprehensive strategy to defeat this formidable enemy.
The Elder Brain Location
The Elder Brain resides in the Chamber of Command within the Gauntlet of Shar, located beneath the Thorm Mausoleum in the Underdark. Players must pass several trials, including defeating magical copies of their party, sneaking past duergar guards, and making a perilous leap across a chasm, to face the Elder Brain.
Elder Brain Abilities and Tactics
The Elder Brain wields powerful psionic abilities like Mind Blast, Psychic Scream, and Dominate Monster. It also summons mind flayer arcanists and dominated creatures for assistance. Players should stay mobile, use line-of-sight tactics, and quickly eliminate its minions.
Defeating the Elder Brain
Defeat the Elder Brain by exploiting its psychic vulnerability, controlling its minions, disrupting its concentration, and removing enchantments. Keep moving to avoid AOE attacks and use environmental elements for damage.
Battle Plan
Phase 1: Eliminate Entry Threats
Use ranged attacks and Protect from Evil spells to handle initial threats.
Phase 2: Advance & Disrupt Minions
Advance cautiously, using cover, and incapacitate minions with spells like Hypnotic Pattern.
Phase 3: Attack the Elder Brain
Target the Elder Brain directly, using multiple angles and spells like Hunger of Hadar.
Phase 4: Counter Psychic Attacks
Counter the Elder Brain’s Psychic Scream with Counterspell and use Dispel Magic for charms.
Phase 5: Finish It
Bait and endure attacks, using mobility and control abilities, then finish off the Elder Brain.
Rewards for Victory
Defeating the Elder Brain rewards players with the Elder Brain Artifact, over 20,000 XP, completion of the Gauntlet of Shar questline, freedom for captured mind flayer thralls, and treasures.
Optimizing Your Party
Bring a well-optimized party with abilities in psychic damage, crowd control, dispels, healing, and mobility.
Approach and Positioning
Engage strategically, eliminating entry threats, focusing on minions, flanking the Elder Brain, and rotating damaged allies.
Alternative Strategies
Consider rushed assaults, kiting, brute force, controlled defense, environmental attacks, and sneak attacks for variety.
Common Questions
- Level Requirement: At least level 10
- Best Classes: Rogues, Wizards, Clerics
- Avoiding Stun Attacks: Use improved Constitution saves and protective spells
- Sneaking Past: Not possible; must defeat to complete quest
- Dealing with Controlled Party Members: Use Dispel Magic and Protection from Evil.
Conclusion
The Elder Brain demands intense preparation and strategic approach. With persistence and optimized tactics, players can conquer this challenge and reap significant rewards.