No franchise has consumed as much of my time, attention, and adoration as Baldur’s Gate—all in all, I would not be surprised if I reached into the thousands for hours played, researched, and read. I make this claim with no shame or remorse. On the contrary, these games cultivated within me an evergreen love for words and storytelling that has made life all the more enchanting.
Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn was one of my very first role-playing games, and quite possibly my favorite video game of all time (although, over two decades later, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a now strong contender). I have played through in its entirety as every possible class and race, so I suppose you could say “these boots have seen everything”! One of the most enriching elements of all Baldur’s Gate games is the colorful cast of characters that join your party along the way. Each one is carefully crafted, becoming larger than life in their own unique ways.
There are no perfect heroes and not even the gods are without flaws. There are tragedies, triumphs, and traumas abound among your companions, some of which may compel you to rethink wishing to “live in more interesting times.” While their complexities cannot truly be distilled into simple personality traits, we thought it would be a bit of fun to speculate on the real world astrology signs of the Baldur’s Gate 3 origin characters. Without further ado, let’s gather our party and venture forth!
I will do my best to keep this spoiler-free.
Lae’zel – Aries
Lae’zel, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
Fierce Githyanki warrior Lae’zel embodies the courageous, headstrong, and dominant qualities of an Aries. She freely speaks her mind and ruthlessly pursues her objectives, sparing no feelings or mercies along the way. While independent, Aries are also known for their intense loyalty, whether that be to an entity or a principle. Lae’zel’s journey leads to revelations that test the very foundations of her world view. This may have compelled a weaker mind to turn a blind eye and submit to falsehood, but the unwavering devotion Lae’zel to her people and their tenets drives her to truly question who is worthy of her formidable faith.
Astarion – Scorpio
Astarion, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
It feels too easy compare a venemous predator to a vampire, but the parallels are undeniable. Scorpios are known to be cunning opportunists, and that is precisely how Astarion has flitted through life (and afterlife). Giddy with newfound freedom and hungry for more, he first sees others as nothing more than a tool to cultivate for protection and revenge. I cannot say much more without spoilers, but Astarion has his reasons for being so cutthroat and calculated in his crusade to break the centuries-old chains that bind him. Scorpios are also known for their passion, confidence, and mystery, all of which Astarion effortlessly exudes, but where does the facade end and the true Astarion begin? The guarded layers of Astarion are a prime example of why I love the characters of Baldur’s Gate so much.
Wyll – Libra
Wyll, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
“The frontiers demanded a blade. And so I heeded.”
Libras are the quintessential sign of justice, fairness, and balance, represented by a scale. Scales have two side locked in conflict with each other, much like Wyll strives towards the light while being shackled to Hell. Despite being forever bound to a demon, Wyll devotes his entire existence to righting wrongs, protecting the peace, and hunting monsters that plague on the less fortunate. Even his motivations for entering a soul-damning contract were noble despite being too naïve to truly understand what he had done at the time. Libras are also known for their natural diplomacy, intelligence, and sense of adventure, qualities which Wyll has in abundance.
Gale – Sagittarius
Gale, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
Gale was a bit more challenging to choose a Zodiac sign for, but I am going with Sagittarius. Allure describes Sagittarius as such: “What makes Sagittarius so unique is its dynamic blend of passion, curiosity, intensity, and adaptability. (…) Whether they’re white water rafting down a river in some undisclosed location or taking a pilgrimage to a sacred site to uncover secrets about an ancient civilization, Sagittarius’ quest for knowledge knows no bounds.” This perfectly captures Gale’s prodigious pursuit of all things arcane, compelling him on an arc that reminds me of the myth of Icarus who flew too close to the sun. He interprets “forbidden” as a challenge and is constantly reading, observing, and experimenting with a curiosity that does not seem to falter (even when the magic lashes back). Gale also radiates a playful optimism along with honesty about his role in the consequences he faces, classic Sagittarius qualities.
Karlach – Leo
Karlach, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
Leos are warm-hearted, and Karlach is quite literally warm-hearted! Of course, the Leo likenesses go beyond this. Despite experiencing the “hell is other people” aphorism quite literally at a young age, Karlach radiates a near indestructible exuberance that makes her one of my absolute favorite companions. She is fiercely loyal and protective, despite fiendish betrayals, and she is confident in a vulnerable way that is refreshing in a world of silver-tongued con artists. Leos are also expressive and enthusiastic, qualities that Karlach is practically bursting with, bringing flair and fun to interactions of all kinds. Karlach reminds me of a benevolent lioness, courageous and strong, but also willing to be soft and nurturing for those in need. She would make an incredible friend!
Shadowheart – Capricorn
Shadowheart, Baldur’s Gate 3, Image credit: Larian Studios
Disciplined? Check. Critical? Check. Stubborn? Check. Hardworking? Check. It’s easy to compare Shadowheart to a Capricorn, but the lines get blurred when you contemplate how much of it is Shar and how much is Shadowheart. Shadowheart begins as a zealous devotee to Shar, the goddess of darkness, and this faith embodies her like a heavy shroud. Capricorns are considered one of the “darkest” signs, known to be cold, calculated, and unwavering in pursuit of their goals or values. Shadowheart is steadfast in her mission, exhibiting a dark stoicism and pragmatism that stifles mercy and sympathy. Capricorns are also rigid perfectionists which can lead to an air of melancholy, a trait that Shadowheart exudes as expected from a Lady of Loss disciple. These are all characteristics cast upon Shadowheart by her faith, so who is the real Shadowheart? There are many ways this question can unfold and that is the beauty of Baldur’s Gate 3! As you are discovering the world, the origin characters are also discovering themselves, and your influence can be a catalyst of colossal proportions. In the wise words of Tav: “Cursed to put my hands on everything!”
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Featured image photo credit: Larian Studios
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