The Maximum Depth of The Witcher 3's Endings: A Comprehensive Guide

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a gaming gem known for its intricate narrative and impactful choices. The game offers a rich tapestry of endings, each with their own complexities and paths. This article delves into the various outcomes for the main characters and dive into the numerous options available to players. By the end of this guide, you will understand the full scope of the game's narrative possibilities.

Three Major Endings for the Main Characters

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt presents players with three primary outcomes for the main characters. These endings are deeply interconnected and significantly influenced by the player's actions during the game. Let's explore each of these distinct destinies:

Ending 1: Ciri Dies

One potential path to the end is the scenario where Ciri, the daughter of the witcher Vesemir, perishes. In this outcome, the main character, Geralt, may follow various paths, but the most notable is his demise. If you inadvertently cause Ciri's death, you may also result in Geralt's passing. This ending is often associated with a tragic and bittersweet conclusion.

Ending 2: Ciri Becomes Empress of Nilfgaard

In this scenario, Ciri rises to power, becoming the Empress of Nilfgaard. The player must then decide between two potential outcomes for Geralt. He can either retire with Yennefer, his old love, or continue his wanderings with Triss, the enigmatic White Wolf. Both endings offer unique experiences and a sense of closure to the story, reflecting the game's nuanced approach to defining heroes and villains.

Ending 3: Ciri Becomes a Witcher

Another significant outcome sees Ciri taking the path of a witcher, skipping the traditional trials. Geralt, in this case, similarly chooses between retiring with Yennefer or Triss, or continuing his journey as a witcher. This ending focuses on the challenges of modern witching and the complex relationships between the main characters.

The Impact on DLCs and Side Quests

Regardless of which of the three main endings you choose, the decision does not significantly affect the gameplay narrative of the DLCs. The DLCs (Blood and Wine, The Wild Hunt, Ghost of Kilunter, and Lady in White) remain accessible. The only impact is on the ending of Blood and Wine, which can only be achieved if you have completed certain main questlines, particularly the ones involving Ciri.

Side Characters and Their Endings

While the main characters have a limited number of ending scenarios, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt does not stop there. Side characters, particularly Darrius, Isabel, Kodlak, and Yuki, each have their own branching paths and possible endings. The game rewards exploration by offering numerous opportunities to interact with these characters, with each interaction potentially altering their fate.

For example, playing as Darrius, a virtuous man, might lead to a more compassionate ending, while choosing Isabel, a former bandit, could result in a more bittersweet conclusion. The same principle applies to Kodlak, the wise boar-killing chieftain, and Yuki, the compassionate Yan Value soldier.

Conclusion

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a game that demands multiple plays to fully appreciate the depth of its narrative. With an array of endings and numerous side quests and character interactions, the game offers endless replayability and a rich exploration of its world. Whether you want to create hero or face the consequences of a tragic ending, this game is sure to provide a memorable gaming experience.

What's your favorite ending in The Witcher 3?