Withers is introduced as a crucial component in Baldur’s Gate 3, offering the player the possibility to engage hirelings and resurrect fallen companions. However, his personality has progressively become a source of irritation among players.
It was bound to occur sooner or later. As a pivotal figure in the game, Withers’ significance stretches beyond mechanics and plot structure. Despite this, the character’s sanctimonious demeanor and continual refusal to provide comprehensive explanations make him an increasingly tiresome companion.
Withers exhibits a harsh demeanor towards Arabella in the midst of her mourning, pushing the player into conflict with the Chosen of the Dead Three. His penchant for lurking in the camp offering little in the way of useful dialogue further compounds player’s frustrations.
While it might be argued that Withers' ability to resurrect Shadowheart after consecutive fatalities might justify his inclusion, many players are beginning to question whether his utility outweighs the annoyance of his presence.
The Label of Manipulator
There is an emerging consensus among players about Withers’ frustrating nature. An increasing number of players are echoing sentiments expressed by one disgruntled gamer, who took issue with what they perceived as Withers’ manipulative behavior.
The player's discontentment centers on Withers’ unwelcomed appearance in their camp and an apparent attempt to legitimize his intrusion with claims of destiny. According to the player, Withers' continual presence feels somewhat invasive, implying an extended surveillance period since the Crypt.
Furthermore, the player takes issue with Withers’ use of the party to battle against numerous horrors, including three Gods’ Chosens and a steroid-enhanced Elder Brain. The player decries this manipulation which, according to them, is carried out without the party’s knowledge or consent and with little consideration for their safety or sanity.
The player also lambastes Withers’ tendency to mock players, regardless of their actions in the game. He scoffs at characters for failing to find a romantic liaison and is equally derisive of those that do. They also criticize his constant air of superiority, arguing that he seems to consider himself more intelligent than everyone else.
The Perception of Pawn
Players also express frustration with the fear that Withers might use their characters for some significant purpose in the future. This discontentment is summed up specifically in one allegation: “We are just a pawn in his cleanup operation to fix a mistake he made ages ago that caused trouble for like a whole trilogy”.
The growing resentment among players suggests that while Withers may continue to play a strategic role in the narrative and mechanics of Baldur’s Gate 3, his personality traits are increasingly overshadowing his in-game utility.
Frustration with Withers is but one example of how character personality and behaviour can impact players' experience. A character can be as strategically important as Withers, but if they lack the congeniality expected of an ally and confidant, players may still view them with disdain.
This offers a critical reminder for game developers about the power of character development. No matter how ingeniously a game mechanic is designed, if it’s executed by a character that players grow tired of, it risks diminishing the overall gaming experience.
Therefore, while the characterization of Withers has certainly sparked important conversations and emotional reactions among players, it also serves as a cautionary tale. Game developers must remember the importance of making their characters as complex and multifaceted as the worlds they inhabit.