12 things The Witcher 3 doesn't tell you
An essential strategy guide for tackling the next-gen version of CD Projekt Red’s masterpiece.Discover twelve mechanics and hidden secrets that the game doesn't explicitly explain—perfect for starting the adventure or getting back into the action as Geralt of Rivia.
Aim your crossbow directly at the giant Golyat's exposed eye to take him down instantly and unlock the associated trophy.You can use Aard or North Wind bombs to immobilize him if you are having trouble hitting the target.
Deflect projectiles with Aard
Use the Aard Sign to deflect most incoming projectiles, including bolts, arrows, mud throws, and fireballs.The Sign also allows you to block and suspend boulders thrown by trolls in mid-air.
Make money with honeycombs
Cast Igni at the beehives in White Orchard, collect the honeycombs that fall to the ground, and sell them to the herbalist Tomira at a good price to quickly amass Crowns during the early stages of the game.
Enable quick Sign casting
Go to the game settings and enable quick Sign casting to assign a specific button to each power.This option allows you to cast Signs instantly without opening the radial menu during combat.
Recover the coins from the captain
Go to the shipwreck in Skellige after completing the relevant quests and search the captain's corpse to retrieve all the Crowns you previously handed over to him in Novigrad.
Eliminate fall damage with a roll
Press the jump button twice just before hitting the ground to perform a roll.This move drastically reduces or completely negates damage taken from a fall.
Loot everything
Thoroughly explore every location and building.Gather flowers and odds and ends wherever you go.Many of these items serve as crafting or alchemy materials—a fundamental part of the game.
Repair your gear
Use repair kits to keep your weapons and armor in top condition.Buying kits from merchants costs less than paying a blacksmith to repair your items.
Use Places of Power
Absorb energy from Places of Power to gain a temporary stat boost and extra ability points, which are useful for learning new skills.
Optimize your mount
Upgrade Roach's saddlebags to increase your inventory capacity.Buy blinders to reduce your horse's fear level and better saddles to increase its stamina.
Master the Signs
Use Aard to knock down obstacles or enemies, Axii to stun opponents or influence them during dialogue, and Quen as a defensive shield.Remember to cast Quen before starting a fight.
Make use of alchemy
Craft potions, weapon oils, and bombs in the dedicated menu.Consult the bestiary to discover your enemies' vulnerabilities and apply the right oils to your swords to deal extra damage.
Gather everything you can
Pick up any item you find lying around, provided no guards are watching the area.Sell or dismantle duplicates at blacksmiths to recover rare materials needed for future crafting.
Visit Places of Power
Explore the map and track down Places of Power to gain temporary bonuses and, most importantly, free skill points to help your character grow.
Utilize the Gourmet skill and the Quen sign
Activate the Gourmet skill from the General tree to extend health regeneration to twenty minutes after eating food.Combine this technique with the Quen sign to create a protective shield.that absorbs blows from stronger enemies.
Upgrade your horse and gear
Buy better saddlebags to increase your horse's carrying capacity and equip blinders to reduce the animal's fear level during combat.Visit grindstones and armorer's tables before a fight to temporarily boost your weapons and armor.
Find the Moonblade silver sword
Head southwest of the Hanged Man's Tree marker and dive into the water to explore the overturned boat.Open the chest guarded by enemies to quickly acquire a powerful silver sword early in the game.
Exchange currency at the bank
Travel to Novigrad and visit the local bank to speak with the teller.Exchange foreign coins for Crowns to boost your funds when you're running low.
