Minsc, a beloved companion from previous games, is an integral companion and romantic partner in Baldur’s Gate 3. A Ranger with a kind but unhinged nature is renowned for his unique relationship with Boo, a hamster he believes to be a miniature giant space hamster, Minsc is a true spectacle in any party.
Not only can Minsc be persuaded to join your journey, but with the right choices and actions, players can even foster a deeper connection, potentially romancing both him and the ever-watchful Boo.
As with all characters in the realm of Baldur’s Gate 3, relationships are multifaceted. Navigating the intricate dance of gaining a companion’s trust, securing their approval through choices, and potentially courting them for romance forms an essential and immersive part of the gaming experience.
How to Increase Approval Rating with Minsc
Minsc’s approval is deeply intertwined with his nature and past experiences. His whimsical and somewhat naive view of the world, combined with his deep loyalty to friends, makes understanding his approval rating essential.
Actions that increase approval:
- Showing kindness to animals, especially Boo.
- Supporting his views and decisions.
- Defending Jaheira and other companions in conflict.
Actions that Decrease approval:
- Disrespecting or endangering Boo.
- Acts of unnecessary cruelty or deceit.
- Challenging or ridiculing his beliefs.
How to Recruit Minsc as a Companion
While many companions present themselves early in your journey through Baldur’s Gate 3, recruiting Minsc requires a bit more effort, unfolding primarily in the game’s third act. Here’s how you can have Minsc and his hamster Boo on your side.
Minsc’s recruitment in Baldur’s Gate 3 is both intricate and tied to the fate of other characters you encounter. Specifically, your primary objectives should be to recruit Jaheira and save The Emperor.
For the full details on how to recruit Jaheria read this article and follow this guide to save The Emperor.
With the guide above, Jaheira will have joined your party. By the time you journey into Act III, your bond with Jaheira will deepen, leading her to entrust you with her companion quest “The High Harper”. This quest, while challenging, serves as a beacon to Minsc’s location and current plight. You will find that Minsc has been “tadpoled,” making him a subservient thrall to the Absolute. This transformation has not only changed his allegiance but also trapped him in a cycle of servitude.
As you navigate the intricate pathways of the Lower City’s sewers, your main objective becomes clear, find Orin the Red, head to the co-ordinates X = -203, Y = 867, here lies the Abandoned Cistern Valve Puzzle where you must raise the water and temperature to the correct levels. Once completed, you will face the real test of confronting Minsc, he will be accompanied by a group of hardened thugs.
You must approach this fight strategically as it’s essential to defeat Minsc without killing him. The final blow must not be lethal. To do this, you must equip a melee weapon or use unarmed attacks, then toggle your combat settings to “non-lethal attacks”. Killing Minsc will not only stop you from recruiting him but Jaheira will also leave your party.
Following this battle, you will engage in a dialogue sequence where you must advocate for Minsc against the Emperor. As he is infected with a “Tadpole”, you must convince The Emperor to shield Minsc from the Absolute’s control. Do so by following these dialogue options:
- “Try to protect him. I must defy my urge.”
- “He’s Jaheira’s friend. Do it.”
- “I don’t think you want to find out,” or “It doesn’t matter–help him.”
Subsequently, Minsc will introduce you to Boo, and both of them will join your party.
How to Have a Relationship and Romance Minsc
Forming a deeper relationship with Minsc is dependent on gaining his trust and understanding his whimsical nature. Showcasing genuine interest in his stories and adventures, especially those involving Boo, will endear you to him.
While explicit details about romancing Minsc are yet to be revealed, developers have hinted that all companions have the potential for romance. However, given Minsc’s deep bond with Boo and his zany nature from previous games, it remains to be seen if players can divert his attention long enough to kindle a romance in Baldur’s Gate 3.