Larian Studios reveals Illithid Powers for Baldur’s Gate 3 in Community Update

In the 22nd Community Update for Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios reveals a new feature called Illithid Powers. After three years in Early Access, Baldur’s Gate 3 is rearing to release. There are tons of new features still unknown to players, which will be available in the full version. Posted on July 31, we now have a better look at the Mind Flayer’s powers given to your characters.

Mind Flayer Illithid Powers revealed for Baldur’s Gate 3 in Community Update

It’s really no spoiler to say that you and your companions are infected by a Mind Flayer parasite. This happens at the very start of the game, and slowly you’ll realize you have some strange abilities. During the Early Access period, there were certain features you could play around with, but that was just the surface of what is to come.

Larian Studios’ 22nd Community Update, posted just three days before release, for Baldur’s Gate 3 reveals the Illithid Powers feature. This is a hidden skill tree you can use to upgrade and enhance your abilities from that parasite in your brain. You can choose to either ignore this skill tree, or lean into it. To get more powers, you must find more parasites throughout the Forgotten Realms. You’ll most likely find these in items like jars or skulls.

Screenshot via Larian Studios

Once you consume a parasite—so gross—you’ll unlock a new Illithid Power from the skill tree. In total, there are 25 powerful abilities, divided by five different branches. These branches have themes surrounding manipulation, psionics, and even health restoration. Or you can decide to choose ones that inflict damage and torment enemies. There’s even an ability to become a displacer beast!

Sadly, these powers will come with a cost, as your companions may not like your new-found abilities. Depending on what type of character you’d like to play, you can fully embrace having Illithid Powers and head to the dark side. Or, perhaps you’d like to stay away from these features to focus on being a well-rounded hero. Nevertheless, the Illithid Powers are quite an interesting feature for you to discover once you get your hands on Baldur’s Gate 3, releasing on August 3.