Should You Get Branded in Baldur’s Gate 3?

One of the many options you get in Baldur’s Gate 3 Act 1 is to get branded with the Mark of the Absolute from the goblin priestess. The priestess of the Goblin Army has an intriguing proposition for you, but should you make this choice? It comes down to what type of player you are.

What Does the Goblin Priestess Branding Do in Baldur’s Gate 3?

At one point in Baldur’s Gate 3 Act 1, you’ll have the option to get branded with the Mark of the Absolute from the goblin priestess in hopes of removing your parasite. No, this will not remove your parasite, but it will affect your game in several ways.

For one, you’ll be able to use certain items that would otherwise cast Bane on your character if you used them, like the Gloves of Power. This power comes at a cost, though, including the disdain of party members like Shadowheart.

In addition, undergoing this procedure requires you to be alone and vulnerable, which will likely lead to a tough fight. You can make it and get your party to still help you, but it won’t be easy. If you care about being able to use any item in the game, go ahead and get yourself branded.

On the other hand, if you don’t care about this more niche feature, it’s probably not for you. I also mainly recommend this to players who side with the Goblin Camp and Minthara, and help them against the Druids. It makes sense from a roleplay perspective for those types of players.

Personally, I didn’t opt to get branded in Baldur’s Gate 3, mainly so I could sneak up and initiate an attack on the goblin priestess myself. This way, I was able to easily defeat her for Halsin without much trouble.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is available for PC and PlayStation 5.