Unlock Rare Shadowheart Content in Baldur’s Gate 3 with Secret Approval Mechanic

There is a secret approval score for Shadowheart in Baldur’s Gate 3 that can result in a rare dialogue during gameplay. This dialogue is determined by the number of points you have accumulated.

In Act 1, Shadowheart is introduced as one of your first companions. It is later revealed that she is a devout follower of Shar, an evil goddess in Baldur’s Gate 3. Throughout your journey together, the choices you make will determine whether she follows her faith’s demands or takes a darker path.

If you have not yet reached Act 2 from the Underdark or Mountain Pass, please be aware that this article contains spoilers. So, it is recommended to avoid reading further until you have reached that point.

Once you have advanced enough in Act 2, you will come across the Temple of Shar. This is where the Gauntlet of Shar trials are held, ultimately leading you to Nightsong once you have successfully completed them all. However, there is a certain method that allows you to skip the entire process if desired.

Once reaching the point of no return in Shadowfell, Shadowheart is faced with a choice. She can either use the Spear of Night, if it has been obtained and not lost, to kill the Nightsong or she can try to persuade her to spare the immortal being. These are the most common outcomes in Baldur’s Gate 3.

In a video, YouTuber SlimX shared that Shadowheart has a secondary approval mechanic, known as “Nightsong points,”which can impact her feelings towards Shar and the Nightsong. Along with the standard approval system, there are a total of six points that can be earned.

A screenshot from the game Baldur's Gate 3 — Larian Studios

Getting enough Nightsong points in Baldur’s Gate 3 can lead to this rare dialogue.

Shadowheart’s level of doubt in her religious devotion to Shar and her character’s demeanor when encountering the Nightsong may vary depending on the number of points earned during the playthrough.

The method by which these points are earned is through specific conversations or instances that challenge her beliefs, known as “faith-testing”moments. These moments are activated by:

Conversations after Shadowheart reveals her wolf memory
Conversation about Shadowheart’s wound flare
Using the Noblestalk to uncover her memory
Giving her blood during the Gauntlet of Shar trials

If you accumulate enough points and gain approval, she will always refrain from attacking the Nightsong unless instructed otherwise. Players who enjoy roleplaying may strive to earn as many Nightsong points and approval as possible in order to unlock the rare dialogue.