When Astarion wants to join the conversation…

Oh, Astarion. He truly is the master of making his feelings known without saying a single word… well, sometimes he says a lot! If you're playing Baldur's Gate 3, you know exactly what I'm talking about when you see that little red 'Astarion disapproves' pop-up. It's like he's always lurking, ready to join the conversation with his disapproval, no matter how noble or kind your intentions. And honestly, me every time I try to be a good person in Faerûn, there he is, judging my life choices! I've lost count of how many times I've tried to help an innocent, offer mercy to a foe, or simply be a decent human being, only for Astarion to chime in with his signature eye-roll and a sharp drop in approval. It's almost a running gag in my playthroughs. You're trying to build a reputation as a hero, and your own companion is there, silently (or not so silently) questioning your every move. It really makes you wonder, 'Can you just be a good person for like two seconds, please?' His disapproval usually stems from actions that are selfless, altruistic, or involve getting entangled in other people's problems without a clear benefit for himself. Offering gold to beggars, helping the Tieflings, showing any form of compassion towards a helpless creature – these are almost guaranteed to earn you a frown from our favorite vampire spawn. It makes sense, given his past and his self-serving nature, but it can be quite the challenge if you're trying to play a morally upright character! Honestly, I've found that sometimes I just have to lean into it. If I'm trying to gain his approval, I know I need to be a bit more cunning, a little more self-interested, or even a little chaotic. Picking locks, being sarcastic, or making choices that prioritize personal gain over universal good usually does the trick. But it's a constant balancing act, especially if you're also trying to keep other companions happy. It feels like a mini-game within the game just to manage everyone's feelings! What are some of your most memorable Astarion disapproval moments? Did you try to get him to approve of your heroic deeds, or did you just accept that he's going to be perpetually unimpressed by your good heart? It's part of his charm, I suppose, but it certainly adds a unique flavor to every conversation. Let me know how you handle his constant disapproval!