Are any of The Witcher games canon?

Are any of The Witcher games canon?

The Witcher series, created by CD Projekt Red, has garnered a massive following worldwide. The franchise consists of video games, books, and a Netflix original series. With multiple platforms, it’s natural to wonder: are any of The Witcher games canon?

The Book Series Comes First

The book series, written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, predates the video games. The games are set after the last book in the series, which means that the games are not canon to the books. This is evident when examining the character of Ciri, who plays a significant role in the games. In the books, Ciri is a central figure, but in the games, she is introduced later, without any prior buildup. This shows that the games are not directly adapted from the books.

The Games Handle Storytelling Differently

The Witcher games handle storytelling in a unique way. Each game is its own story, with events and characters that relate to other games or books. This approach allows players to jump into the series at any point, without worrying about prior knowledge. However, this also means that the games are not canon to the books or other games.

DLC and Its Canonicity

The Witcher 3’s DLC, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, is a separate entity from the main game. Blood and Wine, in particular, is a self-contained story that can be played independently. While the DLC is set within the Witcher 3 universe, it is not considered canon to the main game.

Romancing Anna Henrietta

In Blood and Wine, players can encounter Anna Henrietta, a character who is part of the DLC’s story. However, it’s worth noting that Anna Henrietta is not a romance option for Geralt, unlike her sister Syana. This shows that the DLC is not directly connected to the main game’s story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, none of the Witcher games are canon to the books or other games. The series handles storytelling in a unique way, with each game being its own self-contained story. While the DLC is set within the Witcher 3 universe, it is not considered canon to the main game. The Witcher series is a complex and rich universe, with multiple platforms and storylines. Understanding the differences between the games and books can enhance the overall experience for fans of the series.

Important Points

• The book series comes first, and the games are set after the last book in the series.
• The games handle storytelling differently, with each game being its own story.
• The DLC is a separate entity from the main game and is not considered canon.
• Anna Henrietta is not a romance option for Geralt in Blood and Wine.

Table: Witcher Series Timeline

By understanding the differences between the Witcher games and books, fans can appreciate the unique storytelling approach taken by CD Projekt Red. The series is a testament to the power of creative storytelling and the flexibility of the gaming medium.