Should I go to Novigrad or Skellige first?

Should I Go to Novigrad or Skellige First?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers an open-world experience, giving players the freedom to explore and embark on various quests. One of the initial questions many players face is whether they should start their journey in Novigrad or Skellige. While both locations are crucial to the story, the order in which you visit them affects the narrative and gameplay. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of starting in Novigrad or Skellige to help you make an informed decision.

What is Novigrad and Skellige?

Novigrad is the major city in the Kingdom of Temeria, where the game’s story takes center stage. It’s the birthplace of Ciri, the Empress of Nilfgaard, and the location of the Nilfgaardian army. The city is bustling with activity, and it’s here that you’ll encounter many main storyline quests, including the Imperial Audience, Reason of State, and the climactic conclusion of the game.

Skellige, on the other hand, is a archipelago of islands in the northwest part of the Continent. It’s inhabited by pirates, warriors, and mercenaries, and is home to the Clan an Craite, a powerful and prestigious clan. Skellige offers a diverse range of quests, including the Blood Ties, King’s Gambit, and the final preparation of the Skellige kingdom for Cerys an Craite’s rule.

Should I Start with Novigrad?

There are several reasons why you may want to start your journey in Novigrad:

• Main storyline progression: Novigrad is central to the game’s main storyline, and you’ll encounter many crucial quests and characters that are directly related to the Nilfgaardian invasion.
• Initial challenges: Novigrad’s quests are designed to introduce you to the game’s mechanics, and you’ll encounter several challenging battles and puzzles to prepare you for the rest of the journey.
• Ciri’s significance: Novigrad is connected to Ciri’s story, and exploring the city will give you insight into her background and motivations.

However, starting in Novigrad also means that you’ll miss out on some exciting adventures and quests in Skellige. Skellige is often recommended for players who want to explore alternative storylines and characters, so keep that in mind when deciding which path to take.

Should I Start with Skellige?

Similarly, there are compelling reasons to begin your journey in Skellige:

• Side quests and characters: Skellige offers a wide range of unique characters, quests, and storylines that complement the main narrative. You’ll meet fascinating individuals like Cerys an Craite, Ozzel, and Yghem.
• Alternative perspective: Skellige presents an alternative perspective on the world of the Witcher, offering a fresh take on the characters and events that shape the game’s story.
• Challenges and puzzles: Skellige is home to some of the game’s most challenging puzzles and battles, which will test your skills and wit.

However, starting in Skellige means that you’ll encounter some spoilers for the main storyline, as the events in Novigrad are connected to Skellige’s narrative. Additionally, Skellige’s quests are often designed as side quests, so you’ll miss out on the main storyline progression if you don’t visit Novigrad first.

The Ideal Approach

Ultimately, whether you should start in Novigrad or Skellige depends on your playstyle and preferences. If you want to prioritize the main storyline and explore Ciri’s character, Novigrad may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy side quests, alternative storylines, and meeting new characters, Skellige offers a rich and rewarding experience.

What About the DLC?

Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine are two of the game’s most acclaimed DLCs, and they offer additional quests and storylines that can be explored once the main game is completed. If you start with Novigrad, you may want to wait until the end of the main game to explore these DLCs, as they contain significant spoilers for the main storyline.

In Conclusion

The decision to start with Novigrad or Skellige is crucial to your Witcher 3: Wild Hunt experience. Both locations offer unique storylines, characters, and quests that can enhance your gameplay and immerse you in the game’s world. By considering the pros and cons of each location, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the game to its fullest.

Remember, the order in which you visit Novigrad or Skellige is a matter of personal preference. Whichever choice you make, the Witcher 3: Wild Hunt promises an unforgettable gaming experience filled with action, adventure, and strategic combat.