Witcher 3 Ending: Witcher 4's Canon

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Post on Dec 13, 2024

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Witcher 3 Ending: Witcher 4's Canon – Which Choice Matters?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt boasts multiple endings, leaving players wondering which one will influence the narrative of the upcoming Witcher 4. The impact of your choices in the main storyline, particularly Ciri's fate, is a topic of much speculation and debate among fans. This article delves into the various endings, analyzing their potential impact on the canon of the Witcher universe and what that might mean for the future of Geralt and his companions.

Understanding the Witcher 3 Endings

The core of The Witcher 3's ending hinges on Ciri's destiny. Your actions throughout the game, especially during crucial quests like "The Battle of Kaer Morhen" and "The Last Wish," directly impact her ultimate fate. Essentially, you guide her toward one of three broad outcomes:

1. The Empress:

This ending sees Ciri embrace her destiny, becoming a powerful sorceress and ultimately ruling the Northern Kingdoms. This ending establishes Ciri as a strong, independent leader, potentially setting up interesting political conflicts in future installments.

2. The Witcher:

Choosing this path leads Ciri to become a Witcher herself, following in Geralt's footsteps. This option aligns closely with the themes of family and the witcher lifestyle, potentially offering a different dynamic in Witcher 4, with the possibility of a mentor-mentee relationship between Geralt and Ciri.

3. The Runaway:

This bittersweet ending shows Ciri choosing to reject her destiny, opting for a life outside the political and supernatural conflicts. While seemingly the least impactful on a larger scale, this ending provides an opportunity for introspection on the burden of destiny and the allure of a simple life. However, this path is potentially less likely to shape the wider narrative of Witcher 4.

Which Ending is Canon for Witcher 4?

CD Projekt Red hasn't officially declared any single ending as canon for Witcher 4. This deliberate ambiguity is a clever tactic, keeping fans engaged and speculating. However, analyzing the developers' statements and the overall trajectory of the Witcher saga, some subtle clues emerge.

Several statements from developers suggest a preference for Ciri becoming a powerful figure. The potential for a strong female lead in a future game aligns well with current trends in gaming and narrative design. The "Empress" ending, therefore, seems more likely to have a lasting impact on the larger Witcher universe.

However, it’s crucial to remember that CD Projekt Red is known for its complex and nuanced storytelling. They might surprise us by weaving elements from all three endings into the fabric of Witcher 4. It’s entirely plausible that the writers will acknowledge the various player choices, making the specific ending chosen less significant than the overarching themes and character arcs.

The Importance of Player Agency

Ultimately, the "canon" ending for Witcher 4 might not be a singular, definitive outcome. The developers might cleverly incorporate aspects of each ending, recognizing the importance of player agency and the diverse experiences players had in The Witcher 3. This would be a bold move, showcasing the game's commitment to a rich and evolving narrative that respects player choice.

The Future of Geralt and Ciri

Regardless of the chosen path for Ciri, Geralt's role in Witcher 4 remains a significant question. Will he be a central protagonist, a mentor figure to Ciri, or perhaps even a more background character? This is another aspect that will greatly shape the overall narrative direction of the next installment. The close relationship between Geralt and Ciri, regardless of the ending, establishes the continuing significance of their bond.

Conclusion: Speculation and Anticipation

The mystery surrounding Witcher 4's canon ending fuels excitement and endless discussions within the gaming community. While we await official confirmation from CD Projekt Red, the potential implications of each ending in Witcher 3 offer a rich tapestry of speculation for the future of the Witcher saga. The ambiguity itself is a testament to the game’s masterful storytelling, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter. What are your thoughts? Which ending do you believe will most heavily influence Witcher 4? Share your theories in the comments below!