I Tried The Witcher 3 (with no nostalgia)

Summary

Storyline

In a first-time, “blind” playthrough, Kappa Joe begins as Geralt, searching for Yennefer after a strange dream involving Ciri and the Wild Hunt.

In White Orchard, Geralt learns that Yennefer passed through a Nilfgaardian camp. The garrison commander agrees to share what he knows only if Geralt kills a griffin attacking the region.

While preparing for the hunt, Geralt investigates a missing cargo cart, gathers bait, tracks the griffin with his Witcher senses, and takes on side work—including a contract to defeat a noonwraith. After killing the griffin, he learns that Yennefer has gone to Vizima.

In Vizima, Emperor Emhyr tells Geralt that Ciri has returned and is being pursued by the Wild Hunt. Yennefer says Ciri was seen in Velen and Novigrad, sending Geralt to investigate.

In Velen, Geralt follows clues to the Bloody Baron, who confirms that Ciri visited him. The Baron agrees to tell Geralt more about Ciri if he finds his missing wife, Anna, and daughter, Tamara.

Geralt’s investigation leads through several tangled quests. He helps the sorceress Keira Metz explore elven ruins and defeat a Wild Hunt warrior, lifts a curse on Fyke Isle, and uncovers the tragic truth behind a werewolf’s murder of his wife.

The Baron’s family story reveals that Anna is connected to the Crones of Crookback Bog. Geralt learns that Ciri escaped the Crones and later helped the Baron fight a monster. Her use of her powers drew the Wild Hunt’s attention, and she eventually headed toward Novigrad.

By the end, Geralt still hasn’t found Ciri, but the player is invested in the story and eager to continue.

Gameplay Highlights and Tips

• Use Witcher senses: They reveal tracks, clues, and quest objects, helping Geralt follow trails and investigate locations.
• Prepare before difficult fights: Enemies can be dangerous, so completing side quests and improving equipment can help before taking on a major target.
• Use signs strategically: Axii can influence people, Quen provides a protective shield, and the magic trap sign helps against certain supernatural enemies.
• Build around your playstyle: The player invests an ability point in fast-attack damage because it suits their preferred combat approach.
• Use the crossbow and dodge in combat: These tools are useful against fast or airborne enemies, though the griffin fight takes several attempts.
• Try optional activities: Side quests, contracts, exploration, and Gwent add variety and often lead to surprising stories or rewards.

Gamer and Source

• Kappa Joe — narrator and player; channel context: CupppaJoe+.
• No other sources are identified in the subtitles.