Yes, letting Jowan out of his cell is a pivotal decision in Dragon Age: Origins that can significantly impact the outcome of the Redcliffe Castle questline, particularly if your goal is to save Connor without resorting to drastic measures that harm him or his mother, Arlessa Isolde.
Strategic Advantages of Freeing Jowan
Freeing Jowan is presented as an essential step to successfully save Connor and Arlessa Isolde without causing them harm. His unique knowledge or abilities become crucial for a specific resolution path concerning Connor's plight. This choice aligns with a more diplomatic or less violent approach to solving the crisis in Redcliffe.
Impact on Companion Approval
Your companions will react to this decision, leading to changes in their approval ratings. These changes reflect their individual moral compasses, past experiences, and priorities.
| Companion | Approval Change | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Morrigan | +7 Approval | She generally favors pragmatic or less conventional solutions. |
| Leliana | +2 Approval | Her approval suggests a degree of understanding or acceptance of Jowan's role in the greater good. |
| Alistair | -5 Disapproval | Alistair, often driven by his sense of justice and duty, strongly disapproves of freeing a blood mage, reflecting his principled stance against such individuals. |
Weighing Your Options
When deciding whether to free Jowan, consider the following:
- Quest Resolution: If your primary objective is to find a non-lethal solution for Connor and Isolde, freeing Jowan is the recommended path.
- Companion Relationships:
- This choice is beneficial for building approval with Morrigan and Leliana, which can unlock new dialogue, quests, or even romance options later in the game.
- Be prepared for a significant drop in Alistair's approval. If maintaining a high relationship with Alistair is a priority, you may need to take actions later to compensate for this disapproval.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your preferred playstyle, your desired outcome for the Redcliffe quest, and which companion relationships you prioritize.
