Dominate Monster

Lore & Background

The magic of domination taps into the deepest vulnerabilities of a creature's psyche, overriding their natural instincts and personal desires. In the Forgotten Realms, this spell is often associated with powerful archmages and evil entities who seek to build armies of unwilling thralls rather than fighting alone. The sensation for the victim is often described as a crushing weight pressing against their thoughts, silencing their inner voice until only the caster's commands remain. While effective, the use of Dominate Monster is controversial among the faithful and the moral guardians of Faerûn. Many view it as an abomination that strips a sentient being of its soul's autonomy, treating them merely as a tool to be wielded. In the shadowy history of Baldur's Gate, such magic has been used by tyrants to control city guards and by cultists to force devout paladins into committing acts against their own oaths.

In Their Own Story

The air in the ruined temple grew heavy with static as Elara raised her hand, her eyes glowing with violet light. Before her stood a massive Owlbear, its fur matted with blood, roaring a challenge that shook the dust from the ceiling. She did not raise a shield or draw a blade; instead, she whispered the ancient syllables of domination. The beast's roar cut short, replaced by a confused whimper as its eyes glazed over, the wild fury instantly extinguished. Slowly, the great predator turned its massive head toward Elara, bowing its head in submission, ready to obey any command.

Reader's Guide

Dominate Monster is a Level 5 Enchantment spell that requires concentration for up to one minute. It targets a creature with an Intelligence of 10 or less; creatures with higher intelligence must make a Wisdom saving throw to resist the effect. Upon casting, the target becomes charmed and under your control until the end of your next turn. While dominated, you can mentally command the creature on each of your turns, dictating its actions as if it were an ally. This is strategically invaluable for turning high-level enemies against their own party or using a powerful beast to block enemy movement. Acquisition varies by class: Wizards find it in their spellbook at level 9, while Sorcerers and Bards learn it naturally as they progress. It is also available through certain magical scrolls found in the game world. Players should note that breaking concentration on this spell immediately ends its effect, making it risky to use against enemies capable of high damage or dispelling magic.

Did You Know?

• Dominate Monster is a 5th-level Enchantment spell in Baldur's Gate 3, based on the fifth edition rules of Dungeons & Dragons.
• The spell requires concentration and can last up to 1 minute, but breaking concentration ends its effect immediately.
• In Baldur's Gate 3, outcomes for spells like Dominate Monster are determined by rolling a 20-sided die (d20).
• The spell can be acquired by Wizards at level 9, and by Sorcerers and Bards as they progress, or through magical scrolls.
• Using Dominate Monster on a creature with an Intelligence of 10 or less bypasses the Wisdom saving throw, making it easier to control beasts and monsters.