Is The Witcher 2 Canon?
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is a critically acclaimed action role-playing game developed by CD Projekt Red. Released in 2011, it is the sequel to The Witcher and the second game in the Witcher series. With its rich storyline, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, The Witcher 2 has captivated gamers worldwide. But one question has long been debated among fans: Is The Witcher 2 canon?
Direct Answer:
No, The Witcher 2 is not considered canon in the Witcher franchise. According to the game’s developers and the franchise’s lore, The Witcher 2 is not considered part of the main story canon.
Why is The Witcher 2 Not Canon?
Here are some reasons why The Witcher 2 is not considered canon:
• Deviation from the source material: The Witcher 2 takes creative liberties with the original book series by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, which is the foundation of the Witcher franchise. The game’s storyline and characters diverge from the book series, making it non-canonical.
• Changes to key characters: The Witcher 2 introduces significant changes to key characters, including Geralt’s backstory, the fate of certain characters, and the timeline of events. These changes alter the original storyline, making it non-canonical.
• Alternative timeline: The Witcher 2 exists in an alternate timeline, separate from the main storyline of the book series and subsequent games. This alternate timeline allows for different events and outcomes, which are not considered part of the main canon.
• Intent of the developers: CD Projekt Red, the game’s developers, have stated that The Witcher 2 is a standalone game and not part of the main canon. This intention is evident in the game’s storyline, characters, and overall tone, which deviate from the main series.
Impact on the Franchise:
The Witcher 2’s non-canonical status has had an impact on the franchise, particularly on the subsequent games:
• Inconsistencies: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the next game in the series, addresses inconsistencies and changes made in The Witcher 2, effectively erasing some of the events and characters introduced in the game.
• Continuity issues: The Witcher 3’s storyline and characters are more aligned with the book series, attempting to restore the franchise’s continuity and coherence. However, some fans still lament the changes made in The Witcher 2.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is not considered canon in the Witcher franchise. The game’s deviation from the source material, changes to key characters, and alternative timeline make it a standalone game that is not part of the main storyline. While some fans may disagree, the developers’ intention and the franchise’s overall continuity suggest that The Witcher 2 is not canon.
Additional Facts:
- The Witcher 2’s non-canonical status is acknowledged by CD Projekt Red, the game’s developers.
- The game’s storyline and characters have been largely overwritten by subsequent games, particularly The Witcher 3.
- Fans of the franchise continue to debate the topic, with some arguing that The Witcher 2 is still an important part of the franchise’s history.
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