Should I Finish the Witcher 3 Game Before the DLC?
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action-packed, narrative-driven open-world role-playing game developed by CD Projekt RED. The game’s main storyline is completed in approximately 53 hours, according to How Long To Beat. However, the game offers two expansive DLCs (Downloadable Content) – Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine – which provide additional gameplay hours and depth to the main story. Before diving into these DLCs, many players wonder: should they finish the main game first?
Direct Answer
Yes, it’s highly recommended to finish the main game before diving into the DLCs. Completing the main story sets the stage for the additional content, and understanding the story and character developments up to that point will enrich your experience.
Reasons to Finish the Main Game First
- Story Continuity: The main game and DLCs are designed to be consumed in a specific order to preserve narrative integrity. Understanding the events and story arcs from the main game will ensure that you fully appreciate the DLCs’ contributions.
- Character Development: By the time you reach the end of the main game, you’ve invested considerable time and emotional investment in the characters and their development. The DLCs take place after the main game and build upon the established character dynamics, making their stories more impactful.
- Gameplay Mechanics and Lore: Completing the main game provides a deeper understanding of the game’s lore, mechanics, and gameplay systems. This foundation enables you to approach the DLCs with a better appreciation for the added content, reducing confusion and frustration.
- DLC Expectations: By finishing the main game first, you’ll have a clearer idea of what to expect from the DLCs. The added content expands upon the game’s universe, adds new mechanics, and features complex storylines, all of which require a baseline understanding of the main game’s narrative.
Optional Route: Finishing Side Quests
If you’re eager to start playing the DLCs, it’s still a good idea to complete as many side quests as possible before doing so. These quests not only provide valuable experience points and loot but also expand on the game’s world, characters, and story.
Important Points
- Play the Game as Intended: Playing the game according to the developers’ original vision – i.e., completing the main story and then proceeding to the DLCs – ensures the most cohesive and engaging experience.
- The DLCs are an Extension of the Main Game: The Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine DLCs are not standalone products; they’re designed to complement the main game and continue the story.
- The Choice is Ultimately Yours: If you’d rather jump straight into the DLCs, you’re free to do so. However, be aware that you may miss out on crucial story beats and character development.
Conclusion
Finishing the Witcher 3 main game before diving into the DLCs provides a richer, more immersive experience. By following this order, you’ll be able to appreciate the added content and story beats without feeling lost or disconnected from the game’s universe. While you can start the DLCs at any time, doing so at the end of the main game ensures that you experience the game as intended by the developers.
Final Tips
- Use Your Save Points Wisely: Make sure to use your save points strategically throughout the game to ensure that you don’t overwrite important saves.
- Experiment and Explore: Take the time to explore the game’s world, talk to non-playable characters, and try out different combat tactics and skills to get a better feel for the game’s mechanics.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your Witcher 3 experience. Happy gaming!