How to Ditch the Griffin Head (And Why You Might Not Want To) in Witcher 3
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So, you’ve slain the mighty Griffin, proven your worth, and now you’re wondering: how do I get rid of this massive, feathered head bobbing around on the back of Roach? Fear not, fellow Witcher, for the answer is straightforward, though perhaps not as simple as a toss in the nearest river.
The Griffin head is a monster trophy. To remove it, simply:
- Open your inventory screen.
- Navigate to the character tab.
- Look for the monster trophy slot (it’s typically located in the bottom left of your equipment slots).
- Highlight the Griffin trophy and select the option to remove it (usually by pressing the appropriate button prompt shown on screen, like X on Playstation or A on Xbox).
Now, before you gleefully hock that head for a few measly crowns, let’s consider why you might want to hold onto it a little longer. Monster trophies aren’t just gruesome decorations; they offer valuable passive buffs. The Griffin head, specifically, provides bonus experience points (XP) from both human and monster kills.
Think of it as a temporary XP boost. Early in the game, those extra experience points can be quite significant in helping you level up faster and acquire new skills. Once you find a trophy with a better bonus (such as a higher percentage of XP, increased attack power, or elemental resistance), then it’s time to bid adieu to the Griffin.
Selling Monster Trophies: When you’re ready to part ways, head to any merchant. While some merchants may offer slightly better prices than others, the difference is usually negligible, especially compared to the trophy’s early-game benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monster Trophies in The Witcher 3
What do Monster Trophies actually do?
Monster trophies, when equipped on Roach (your horse), grant Geralt passive bonuses. These can range from increased XP gain to enhanced attack power, resistance to certain damage types, or even a higher chance to dismember enemies. Each trophy offers unique benefits, adding a layer of strategic customization to your build.
Where is the Monster Trophy slot?
The monster trophy slot is located in the character equipment screen, typically in the lower left corner. It is readily visible when browsing Geralt’s gear.
How do I equip a Monster Trophy?
Equipping a monster trophy is the same process as removing it: Navigate to the character equipment screen, select the trophy slot, and choose the trophy you wish to equip from your inventory. The game will automatically equip the most recently acquired trophy upon defeating a monster, but manually equipping is vital for swapping to different bonuses.
Is the Griffin head still on Roach? How can I check?
If you haven’t manually changed it, the Griffin head is likely still equipped on Roach assuming it was the last trophy you acquired. To confirm, simply open your inventory, navigate to the character tab, and check the monster trophy slot.
What’s the best Monster Trophy in the game?
There’s no single “best” trophy, as the optimal choice depends on your play style and the challenges you’re facing. However, some popular and powerful options include:
- Doppler Trophy: +5% to experience gained from humans and nonhumans. This is a good all-around trophy.
- Ekimmara Trophy: +5% to Health restored with each foe slain. This is excellent for sustain, particularly on higher difficulties.
- Fiend Trophy: +20 Carrying Capacity. If you’re constantly struggling with being over-encumbered, this is a godsend.
Should I take the coins for killing monsters?
Absolutely! Taking the reward money for Witcher contracts has no negative impact on the game’s story or your reputation. Geralt is a professional, and Witchers are paid for their services. Taking the coins is simply a matter of adhering to the contract. You do not have to prove your worth to anyone.
What’s the point of killing monsters if not for the money?
While money is a significant incentive, killing monsters also grants you experience points, valuable crafting ingredients, and, of course, the monster trophy itself. These elements all contribute to Geralt’s growth and your ability to tackle increasingly difficult challenges.
Can I equip more than one Monster Trophy at a time?
No, you can only equip one monster trophy at a time. This encourages strategic decision-making as you consider which bonus best suits your current needs.
What level should I be to fight the Griffin?
The recommended level for the first Griffin fight (the one in White Orchard) is around level 3. However, skilled players can defeat it at a lower level by utilizing proper tactics, potions, and signs.
What are the Griffin’s weaknesses?
The Griffin is vulnerable to the Aard sign, which can knock it out of the sky. Using a crossbow to shoot it down is also effective. Consider crafting the Thunderbolt potion to boost your attack power and using a silver sword as they are most effective against monsters.
Why does Geralt call all his horses Roach?
Geralt names all his horses “Roach” as a matter of tradition. It’s a practical choice, as it saves him from having to come up with new names for each steed. It also highlights his somewhat detached and pragmatic personality.
Is Roach a male or female horse?
Roach is generally depicted as a mare (female horse). There are instances in the game and books where Geralt refers to Roach with feminine pronouns.
What happens if Roach dies?
If Roach “dies” (usually from falling from a great height or combat), she will typically reappear shortly afterward. The game doesn’t permanently penalize you for Roach’s demise, though it can be inconvenient in the moment.
What is the best weapon against Griffins?
A silver sword is the most effective weapon against Griffins. In addition, exploiting its vulnerability to the Aard sign and using a crossbow to bring it down from the air are crucial tactics.
Is Griffin gear worth it in Witcher 3?
The Griffin School Gear is a decent medium armor set, particularly useful in the early to mid-game. It provides a bonus to Sign intensity, making it a good choice for players who rely heavily on using Signs in combat. However, as you progress, you’ll likely find better armor options.
Ultimately, whether you choose to immediately sell the Griffin head or keep it for its bonus XP is up to you. Consider your current level, your play style, and the availability of other trophies before making your decision. Happy hunting, Witcher!
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