Baldur's Gate 3 "Bug" Makes Muscle Mommy Karlach A Reality

A user on Reddit recently posted what they thought was a funny bug that had made their character take the "female role" during an adult scene with Karlach. As it turns out, this is not a bug, but merely BG3 working as intended.

Karlach Muscle Mummy
Karlach is now an even better romance option. | © Larian Studios

Baldur's Gate 3 has been famous for its focus on romance since the extended gameplay reveal, which contained the infamous bear scene. But BG3's portrayal of adult themes goes far beyond endless downstairs options and bizarre outrage. It's also about love, and self-expression, and inclusion.

Of course, as multifaceted as love is in BG3, just over 50% of all players still went with the conventional (basic) option of romancing Shadowheart on their first play through. However, others were more persuaded by Astarion's charisma, Lae'zel's determination, and Karlach's strength.

Karlach, often referred to by the BG3 community as "muscle mummy", has a particularly endearing romance story that doesn't promise the same happily-ever-after as the others. Now, one player has found a way to make romancing Karlach even more exciting...

BG3 Players Discovers Way To Give Karlach "Male Animations" During Adult Scene

If you are successfully romancing Karlach and go on a date with her in Act 3 of Baldur's Gate 3 then even if your character is male they will use the female animations during the adult scene, and Karlach will play the role of the male partner. In other words, Karlach will throw you down on the bed, lift up your legs, and use her hands.

Here is the scene in question:

LMAO I heard about this bug by u/cappin_crunch71 in BaldursGate3

It's worth reiterating what others in the comments told the original poster: This is not a bug. You don't need to do anything special, you just need to treat Karlach right and secure a date during Act 3 in the city. If you get to this stage of romancing Karlach, then it doesn't matter what downstairs situation your character has, Karlach will take control during that scene.

So, there you have it, a new idea for your next playthrough. Who did you romance first in Baldur's Gate 3?

Jon Ramuz

Jon has a BA and an MA in English Literature, and as Content Lead for EarlyGame has written over 1,500 articles. He focuses on shooters, but also writes about entertainment and gaming in general....