When Should I Start Hearts of Stone?
The Hearts of Stone DLC is a significant addition to the Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, offering a new storyline, characters, and challenges. However, many players are unsure about when to start this expansion. In this article, we’ll explore the recommended times to begin Hearts of Stone and provide guidance on how to make the most of your experience.
Direct Answer:
According to the developers, the recommended time to start Hearts of Stone is shortly before you find Ciri or after the battle of Kaer Morhen. This allows you to experience the story in its intended order and avoid spoilers.
Why This Recommendation?
Starting Hearts of Stone at this point in the game allows you to:
• Avoid spoilers: If you start the DLC earlier, you may encounter plot twists and characters that you haven’t yet encountered in the main game. Starting after the battle of Kaer Morhen ensures you’re prepared for the events that unfold.
• Enhance the story: Hearts of Stone is designed to be a natural extension of the main game’s storyline. By starting at this point, you’ll appreciate the connections between the two and enjoy a more cohesive narrative.
• Tackle challenging content: Hearts of Stone introduces new and challenging enemies, quests, and mechanics. Starting when recommended allows you to adapt to these changes and improve your skills before facing more demanding content.
But What If I Want to Start Earlier?
If you’re eager to start Hearts of Stone earlier, you can still do so. However, be aware that you may encounter spoilers or feel disconnected from the main game’s story.
Key Considerations When Starting Hearts of Stone
Before starting the DLC, consider the following:
• Level: Hearts of Stone is designed for level 30 and above. If you’re below this level, you may find the content too challenging or unevenly paced.
• Story: As mentioned earlier, starting Hearts of Stone at the recommended time enhances the story. If you start earlier, you may miss key events or characters that impact the narrative.
• Gameplay mechanics: Hearts of Stone introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to play as a ghoul. Ensure you’re comfortable with the game’s core mechanics before diving into the DLC.
Table: Hearts of Stone Starting Points
| Starting Point | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Shortly before finding Ciri or after the battle of Kaer Morhen | Avoid spoilers, enhance the story, tackle challenging content | May feel like too much repetition |
| Early in the game | Gain experience, adapt to new mechanics | Risk encountering spoilers, disconnected from main story |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recommended starting point for Hearts of Stone is shortly before you find Ciri or after the battle of Kaer Morhen. This allows you to experience the story in its intended order, avoid spoilers, and tackle challenging content. However, if you’re eager to start earlier, be aware of the potential drawbacks and consider your level, story, and gameplay mechanics.