Witcher 3 Beginner's Guide – First 10 Things to Do in 2025
Introduction
Did you know that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has sold over 50 million copies worldwide, making it one of the most beloved RPGs of all time? If you're just stepping into Geralt of Rivia's boots for the first time, you're in for an absolutely incredible adventure! But here's the thing – this massive open-world RPG can feel overwhelming at first.
I remember my first playthrough vividly. I spent hours wandering aimlessly, missing crucial mechanics and making rookie mistakes that cost me dearly later on. Don't let that happen to you! This comprehensive beginner's guide will walk you through the first 10 essential things every new witcher should prioritize.
Whether you're picking up the Complete Edition or diving in through Game Pass, these fundamental tips will set you up for success in the Northern Kingdoms. Let's transform you from a confused newcomer into a seasoned monster hunter!
Master the Combat Basics and Sign Magic
- Understanding light attacks, heavy attacks, and dodging mechanics
- Learning when to use Quen (protective shield) vs other signs
- Mastering the timing for parries and counterattacks
- Using Igni for crowd control and Aard for environmental kills
- Combat preparation: oils, potions, and meditation
Optimize Your Inventory Management System
- Understanding weight limits and how they affect gameplay
- Which items to keep vs sell to merchants
- Organizing weapons, armor, and crafting materials efficiently
- Using storage containers and stash management
- Best practices for looting without becoming encumbered
Complete White Orchard Tutorial Area Thoroughly
- Finding all Places of Power for ability point bonuses
- Completing every side quest and contract available
- Collecting essential crafting diagrams and recipes
- Learning monster weaknesses through bestiary entries
- Gathering coin and experience before moving to Velen
Understand the Character Building and Skill Trees
- Overview of Combat, Signs, Alchemy, and General skill trees
- How to allocate ability points effectively for beginners
- Understanding mutagens and how they enhance abilities
- Creating your first viable character build
- When and how to use Places of Power strategically
Learn Essential Crafting and Alchemy Systems
- Finding and upgrading witcher gear sets
- Brewing essential potions like Swallow and Cat
- Creating weapon oils for specific monster types
- Understanding crafting materials and where to find them
- Locating reliable blacksmiths and armorers
Navigate the Gwent Card Game Like a Pro
- Basic Gwent rules and winning strategies
- Building your starter deck with common cards
- Finding merchants who sell rare cards
- Completing Gwent-related quests and tournaments
- Why Gwent mastery enhances your overall experience
Explore Efficiently Using Fast Travel and Roach
- Unlocking signposts for fast travel convenience
- Mastering Roach controls and horse combat
- Using the map effectively to plan exploration routes
- Understanding question marks and points of interest
- Balancing main quests with exploration rewards
Make Smart Dialogue Choices and Relationship Decisions
- Understanding how choices affect story outcomes
- Building relationships with Yennefer, Triss, and other characters
- Navigating political conflicts in different regions
- Learning when dialogue choices have permanent consequences
- Using Geralt's witcher knowledge in conversations
Manage Your Finances and Trading Strategies
- Best items to sell for maximum profit
- Finding wealthy merchants who pay fair prices
- Understanding regional price differences
- Investing in essential upgrades vs luxury items
- Money-making strategies for early game progression
Set Up Essential Gameplay Settings and Options
- Adjusting difficulty settings for optimal challenge
- Configuring UI elements and HUD preferences
- Understanding movement alternatives (alternative vs standard)
- Setting up inventory and quest tracking efficiently
- Customizing controls for combat and exploration comfort
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have the essential foundation to begin your witcher journey with confidence. These 10 fundamental strategies will save you countless hours of frustration and help you appreciate the incredible depth that The Witcher 3 offers.
Remember, this game rewards curiosity and thorough exploration. Don't rush through the main story – take time to absorb the rich lore, engage with side characters, and experiment with different combat approaches. Every contract you complete and every conversation you have adds another layer to this masterfully crafted world.
Ready to hunt some monsters and shape the fate of the Northern Kingdoms? Grab your silver sword, stock up on Swallow potions, and step into one of gaming's greatest adventures. The path of the witcher awaits, and trust me – it's going to be legendary!