The Witcher 3: Unveiling Geralt's Epic Farewell
Despite a new game in development, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and its DLCs provide a compelling case for Geralt's retirement, offering a fitting conclusion and closing the door on his journey
Highlights
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offered a satisfying conclusion to Geralt of Rivia's tale, featuring various possible outcomes that could set the stage for a potential continuation.Nevertheless, the addition of the Blood and Wine DLC brought further closure to Geralt's journey, granting him a definitive ending and a joyous retirement on his very own property.
The next installment of the Witcher game series is currently being developed, indicating a shift away from Geralt as the central character. As the franchise progresses, it allows Geralt to take a much-needed and deserved hiatus from the limelight. Geralt's retirement is well-deserved after all his accomplishments.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released by CD Projekt Red in 2015, swiftly emerged as an exceptional video game, earning accolades as one of the finest of its console generation. It not only secured the title of the developer's highest-selling game but also exemplified the very essence of a fantasy video game. Naturally, curiosity was piqued regarding CDPR's plans for Geralt of Rivia following the conclusion of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
In 2020, it was announced that a Witcher project was set to commence once CD Projekt Red concluded its work on Cyberpunk 2077. Though a few development details and a teaser have been disclosed to fans, the precise nature of the project remains ambiguous. However, the developers have made it abundantly clear that it is not "The Witcher 4" and appears to be venturing beyond Geralt's storyline. Given the events of The Witcher 3, it is evident that Geralt of Rivia deserves a well-deserved retirement.
A Fitting Conclusion for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3 marked the culmination of a story, centered around Geralt's quest to locate his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is coveted by various factions. Among these are her biological father and The Wild Hunt, with Geralt aiming to protect her at all costs. Interestingly, the game's endings don't provide ample opportunity for a follow-up, as stated by the developer, signifying the conclusion of the story, if not the entire franchise.
The Witcher 3 boasts multiple endings that are determined by the player's choices, with four main variations pertaining to Geralt's fate. Depending on the player's actions, the protagonist may retire alongside one of his sorceress love interests, or continue his life as a roaming monster hunter. In the unfortunate event of Ciri's demise, Geralt is ambushed by monsters, leaving his destiny uncertain, although the unfavorable option portrays him giving up during the midst of the fight. While some endings bring closure and happiness to Geralt's story, others maintain a more uncertain tone, yet they all allow for potential future installment. Nevertheless, the release of the DLC seemed to indicate a definitive end to any possibility of continuation.
How the Blood and Wind DLC Further Closes the Door on Geralt
A year following the release of The Witcher 3, CD Projekt Red introduced the Blood and Wine DLC. This expansion served as an epilogue to the main game and featured Geralt undertaking a contract to eliminate a vampire in the region of Toussaint. As part of his reward, Geralt is granted his own estate. The narrative concludes with the demise of the vampire, with the player's choices throughout the DLC determining diverse outcomes for the region. Regardless, this provides Geralt with a satisfying conclusion.
The final moments of the Blood and Wine DLC depict Geralt unwinding on his new estate, engaging in a conversation with his vampire companion, Regis. They discuss the need for rest after having been involved in numerous significant events over the years. As the character smiles at the camera, the credits roll, signifying the end of the story and Geralt's opportunity to embrace a peaceful life. Additionally, if the player had chosen a romantic interest, either Yennifer or Triss, they may appear alongside Geralt. Alternatively, Geralt may be visited by Dandelion or Ciri. These narrative elements are deliberately included to ensure Geralt achieves a happy ending, and it is fitting that the character is granted this period of tranquility as a well-deserved reward.
Currently, very little information is available regarding The Witcher 4 and its direction. The full development of this new game will most likely commence after the completion of the Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty DLC. However, gamers may have to wait a while before hearing substantial updates. Nevertheless, it appears that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt strongly indicates that it is time for Geralt to take a break.
