The Strange Ox is a curious creature you’ll come across in Baldur’s Gate 3 while exploring Emerald Grove. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary ox, blending in seamlessly with others.
But as you hover over it or highlight your surroundings, you’ll notice its unique name: “Strange Ox.” That’s your first clue that something unusual is going on.
Perception Checks Reveal Clues
When you approach the Strange Ox, perception checks will trigger. These checks are the game’s way of signaling that there’s more to this creature than meets the eye. The Ox seems ordinary, but its behavior and presence suggest otherwise. If you’re curious about its true nature, there’s plenty to uncover.
Interacting with the Strange Ox
If your character can speak with animals, you can initiate a conversation with the Strange Ox. This opens up several dialogue options, allowing you to question its motives. To dig deeper, you’ll need to pass a high Arcana check. Successfully doing so reveals the creature’s hidden goal: a desire to travel to the bustling city of Baldur’s Gate.
This revelation raises more questions. Why would an ox want to visit such a place? Is it more than it appears? These mysteries add to the intrigue surrounding this creature.
What Happens If You Attack the Strange Ox?
If you choose to attack the Strange Ox, the situation takes a dramatic turn. The creature explodes into acid, leaving behind an interesting reward: the Shapeshifter’s Boon Ring. This magical item is a powerful tool, granting a bonus d4 to all checks while shapeshifting or disguising yourself.
For players who own the Mask of the Shapeshifter, this ring can significantly enhance its utility. However, killing the Ox might feel harsh, as its true intentions remain ambiguous.
Is the Strange Ox a Shapeshifter?
The evidence suggests that the Strange Ox could be a shapeshifter in disguise. Its goal of blending in with other animals and traveling to Baldur’s Gate hints at this possibility, though it’s never explicitly confirmed in the game. Players can only speculate on its motives, adding to the mystique.
