Baldur's Gate 3: Cazador's Tragic Backstory Explained

Delving into Cazador's backstory in Baldur's Gate 3 reveals a complexity often missed, showcasing a villain with more than just surface-level evil. While Cazador is undoubtedly a hated figure, understanding his past sheds light on his present actions and offers a chilling parallel to another fan-favorite character, Astarion.

Many players may see Cazador as a one-dimensional villain, however, there are layers to his character. But is there more to him than meets the eye? Let's explore his history.

Unveiling Vellioth: The Source of Cazador's Torment

Within the depths of Szarr Palace, the remains of Vellioth, Cazador's former master, are found. This discovery is key to understanding Cazador's backstory. Vellioth, a previous Vampire Lord, subjected Cazador to brutal "lessons" that shaped his twisted worldview.

These lessons, revealed through interacting with Vellioth's skull, highlight the abuse and manipulation Cazador endured. Vellioth instilled three core principles:

• Dominate all, allowing no equals.
• Power comes from solitude; sharing is weakness.
• Act with calculated patience, making others pay the price.

Each rule was enforced with cruelty. Cazador was punished for showing kindness and for attempting to rebel, enduring years of impalement. This cycle of abuse becomes eerily familiar when observing Cazador's treatment of Astarion.

Cazador's Abuse: A Mirror of Vellioth's Cruelty

The parallels between Cazador's experience and Astarion's are striking. Cazador inflicts the same possessive and abusive behavior upon Astarion that he once suffered. This raises a question: Is Cazador simply a product of his environment?

While his actions are inexcusable, understanding the origins of his cruelty adds depth to his character. Had circumstances been different, could Cazador have followed a different path? This is a question that adds depth to the game.

Even in death, Cazador seems to lament his lost humanity, hinting at a time before his vampirism consumed him. This glimpse of his former self suggests a potential for good, buried beneath layers of trauma and abuse.

The Cycle of Abuse and Astarion's Ascension

The story of Cazador's backstory serves as a warning, particularly regarding Astarion's potential ascension. Documents within Cazador's palace reveal a lineage of vampire lords and their usurpers, highlighting a repeating cycle of power and abuse.

Choosing to ascend Astarion may perpetuate this cycle, transforming him into a figure mirroring Cazador's cruelty. While Astarion's ascension may seem like a victory, it could be interpreted as a continuation of an ancient pattern of abuse.

Understanding Cazador's backstory enriches the narrative of Baldur's Gate 3. It challenges players to consider the complexities of even the most despised villains and to recognize the potential consequences of their choices.