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The Netherese Orb is a powerful magical artifact in Baldur's Gate 3, and its usage can have drastic effects on the storyline.
Gale, a wizard companion in the game, is in possession of this orb. He needs to absorb magical items to keep its power under control. He has a powerful Netherese Orb in his chest that can be used to cause a giant explosion. It can only be used in certain cutscenes and offers unique outcomes. The Netherese Orb can only be activated by Gale himself.
Using the orb at the end of Act Two can have severe repercussions for the game's story. The player is able to end the game early with Gale sacrificing himself, thus killing off the entire party, the Chosen, and the Absolute. However, the tadpoles will continue to transform into Mind Flayers after the Explosion. This leads to a rather unsatisfactory end.
The Netherese Orb can be used again at the end of the third Act, before confronting the Absolute. If chosen, Gale uses his powers to explode, taking out the Elder Brain. The party will be sent away. It ends with a unique storyline. However, this will prevent Gale's own ending. While this may be a viable option for players, it cuts out important portions of the final battle.
Choosing not to use the Orb gives the player access to a variety of Endings depending on the choice during the final encounter with Mystra. The story will then require the retrieval of the Crown of Karsus. Ultimately, whether the orb is used or not depends on the player’s preferences. However, not using it offers a more fulfilling story for Gale.
Players will be able to choose to use the orb during cutscenes that give the option to sacrifice Gale and his Netherese Orb. You can also select "Netherese Orb Blast" from the menu at any time in battle; however, it will end the game instantly.
The orb serves to enhance the story and the narrative by giving Gale a powerful choice that allows players to alter the game. This, however, has some significant consequences, ultimately making this decision critical in shaping the ending of the Baldur's Gate 3 story.