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As a romantasy book lover, I have always been captivated by intricate stories that unravel the complexities of human relationships. Much like the pages of a novel, the characters in video games can also offer a deep exploration of emotions, connections, and romantic tropes.

One game that has recently caught my attention is Baldur’s Gate 3, a turn-based role-playing game. What makes this game special? There is an entire list of reasons why this game is spectacular, but for the purpose of this post, we will focus on its diverse cast of fleshed-out characters. Each character offers a mysterious backstory (which you unravel throughout the game), unique personality, and a driving purpose.

Join me as we dissect the romantic dynamics within the game, focusing on the core companions: Gale, Astarion, Shadowheart, Lae’zel, Wyll, and Karlach. For sake of brevity, I will be using the default protagonist name, Tav.

Spoiler warning: Mentions of Act I dialogue.

1. Astarion – I Have A Secret

If Astarion isn’t rated first, then that person is lying to you or has never swooned over the dark character (which is probably for the best). Astarion is that classic dark character powered by chaos and sass and who isn’t attracted to that! The whole dark past, brutal scars, hunger for blood – Astarion’s got it all.

And who’s his guiding light? Yep, it’s you.

However, that sarcastic and cocky exterior seems to be a façade for a traumatic past.

When Astarion moves to bite Tav during a long rest, you are faced with the decision to let him. If you happen to let the elfen vampire have a taste of you, you wake in the morning with the Bloodless condition and a conversation with Astarion.

He confesses that you were his first humanoid blood.

Based on his whispered tone and timid movements, you are introduced to a vulnerable side that is a far cry from his initial arrogance and bravado.

Sounds awfully familiar to some of your favorite dark love interests?

2. Gale – Impossible Love

Gale’s relationship with the Tav is marked by an impossible love trope. Despite his charm and connection with Tav, Gale carries a dark secret within him – a consuming void that threatens to consume him.

After feeding Gale several magical items, he reveals that there is a part of the Weave within him that is bound to explode. He seems content with this outcome, knowing that it was his own foolish act of love that created this outcome.

Gale is reserved with his relationship, presenting as a man who doesn’t fear the path laid before him. His turmoil strikes a trope similar to Beauty and the Beast, where love blossoms despite external obstacles.

Essentially, he shares his fears of losing control and begs the protagonist to help him prevent the disaster that awaits if his darkness takes over.

As the game progresses, it is up to you to show Gale that he can have wants and desires outside of his inevitable doom.

The only problem is, will it last?

3. Lae’zel – Reluctant Alliance

Lae’zel’s dynamic represents the reluctant alliance trope. As a Githyanki warrior who has extensive knowledge about the mind flayers, she initially regards Tav as inexperienced and beneath her. Initially, she can be annoyingly stubborn and very direct with her intentions.

However, she understands the issue at hand and reluctantly decides to join your party.

However, as their journey progresses, their differences lead to mutual understanding. There are several key moments that warrant Lae’zel’s approval. As she sees more of Tav’s personality and capabilities, she reluctantly acknowledges Tav as an equal, signaling a shift from rivalry to respect.

4. Shadowheart – Enemies to Lovers Trope

The title in itself is enough to give away my reasoning for this rating. In the beginning, Shadowheart is seen as tough and standoffish. As a cleric on a mission, Shadowheart is wary of your motives and separates herself from the party, setting the stage for a wonderful enemies-to-lovers arc.

As you journey together, you are presented with the option to either pry into her past or allow her to keep her secrets. She slowly sheds her skepticism and develops an appreciation for Tav.

It’s that classic trope where two people who can’t stand each other end up developing feelings against their will. In short, imagine arguing about differing viewpoints, but then slowly coming to respect each other’s strengths. Swoon.

And my weakness? A good enemies-to-lovers.

5. Karlach – Forbidden Love

Karlach’s connection with Tav is steeped with the forbidden love trope. As a tiefling who escaped from Avernus, Karlach possess a heart of infernal metal. With burning hot skin and an expiring time outside of Hell, there are many things preventing Karlach and Tav’s romance.

But, there still might be hope! After visiting the Druid camp and speaking with an ironsmith, you discover that you just might be able to repair Karlach’s heart.

Perhaps someday Tav will finally be able to be able to touch Karlach, but until that day the world will keep denying their connection.

6. Wyll – The Heroic Devotion

Wyll, the human warlock, embodies the “Heroic Devotion” trope. As a loyal companion with a strong sense of justice, Wyll’s actions and motivations are driven by a desire to protect and assist the protagonist.

His unwavering loyalty and genuine concern create a powerful bond that is grounded in shared values and a common goal.

In fact, Wyll is so dedicated to protecting the good in the world that he refuses to kill Karlach for his patron, Mizora. Outraged at his statement, Mizora transforms Wyll into a partial devil, giving him horns, a single black eye, ridged skin, and sharp teeth.

With his alarming new features, Wyll’s spirit falters. He no longer presents as the hero he is cherished as.

It is up to you to convince Wyll that he is still worthy of the title Blade of Frontiers.

Who Will You Choose?

Baldur’s Gate 3 masterfully weaves a tapestry of romance tropes, each contributing to the depth and complexity of the game’s character dynamics. From the trauma-ridden flirt to the fallen hero, players are treated to a rich array of romantic relationships.

As a seasoned reader of romantasy, I was thrilled to explore all the possible dynamics Baldur’s Gate 3 presented. I invite fellow fans of romance and fantasy to explore this magnificent game.

Would you rank the characters the same? Who did you choose?