But the question is, why should a player go to war with the game for the opportunity to do what he wants to do? In a good RPG, one should confront those in-game obstacles and challenges that arise from the game's story, as part of the roleplay, not go to war with the scenario itself.
We shouldn't have to, simple as that.
Originally Posted by melgreg
I just feel like there is some upsetting bait and switch going on with Astarion’s character. The early acts give you the strong impression that he has a domination kink, which I frankly thought was cool to see represented in a video game romance. The problem is, if you don’t ascend Astarion he becomes completely fluffy and sweet with no indication he ever had a kinky bone in his body; which is also inconsistent, in its own way.
It's something I've complained about too. You don't just drop your sexual likes because you make one heroic decision. All of it makes no sense. He behaves like he's repressing himself and he'll feel miserable in the relationship if he cannot even express his sexuality.
Originally Posted by melgreg
I have always felt like you’re making a devil’s bargain when you kneel. In exchange for freedom you choose a life of sin, luxury, decadence and pleasure. You can’t leave, and you’re not an equal partner, but that’s a price you can pay.
I feel the same about it. Then again the loss of freedom is only on paper if Tav actually truly loves Astarion and intends to stay with him.
Originally Posted by melgreg
As far as Astarion. Even Ascended, it felt like he needed Tav. Except that’s weakness. So he exerts control in order to maintain his self image and prove that he has power even over his own emotions. The only way for him to feel safe in a relationship on this path is to dominate it.
In a banter with Lae'zel he admits he needed someone he could trust. He also heavily hints that he turned Tav because he was scared of being betrayed and left by them.
