Is Aerondight the Best Silver Sword in The Witcher 3? A Definitive Guide
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Unequivocally, yes. Aerondight is the best silver sword in The Witcher 3, especially when considering the Blood and Wine DLC. Its unique scaling mechanic, coupled with its potential for immense damage output, makes it the undisputed champion for slaying monsters across the Continent. This isn’t just a matter of opinion; it’s a conclusion reached by countless Witchers (players) who’ve meticulously tested and optimized their builds. Let’s delve into why Aerondight reigns supreme and explore everything you need to know about this legendary blade.
Aerondight: More Than Just a Sword
Aerondight isn’t just a weapon; it’s a symbol of virtue and Geralt’s potential. Obtaining it requires completing the “There Can Only Be One” quest in Toussaint, a test of the Five Virtues: Honor, Compassion, Valor, Generosity, and Wisdom. This quest ensures only a worthy Witcher can wield its power. But what makes it so special, mechanically speaking?
The Scaling Mechanic: Power That Grows With You
Unlike other swords that become obsolete as you level up, Aerondight scales with Geralt. Its damage increases as you level, ensuring it remains relevant throughout your entire playthrough. But the key is the charge mechanic. Each successful hit on an enemy increases the sword’s damage by 10%, up to a maximum of 100%. Once fully charged, Aerondight guarantees a critical hit on every attack, effectively doubling and then redoubling its already enhanced damage. This multiplicative scaling is what truly sets it apart.
The Leveling Process: Unleashing its True Potential
The sword doesn’t simply level up automatically. Each time you level up, it adds 10 “extra damage capacity” for you to earn by killing something at full charge 5 times. It expands by ten with each level you gain.
For example, if you acquire Aerondight at level 47, its stats might be 522-638. By level 67, consistently using the sword to dispatch monsters while fully charged, its stats could reach 722-838. The theoretical maximum damage output at level 100 is staggering, making Geralt an unstoppable force. The sword’s maximum potential level will keep increasing as you level up until you reach your level cap of 100. That will give you the sword’s final maximum level and you can keep levelling it up until you reach that maximum level.
Synergies and Builds: Maximizing Aerondight’s Power
Aerondight’s power is further amplified when combined with specific builds. The Alchemy build, focusing on potions and decoctions, provides sustained damage output and survivability, allowing you to maintain Aerondight’s charge consistently. The Combat build, with its fast attacks and critical hit chance enhancements, further boosts the sword’s effectiveness. And of course, the Sign build can be used to enhance the weapon’s enchantments, providing further damage output. No matter the build, Aerondight is designed to excel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aerondight
Here are some common questions players have about Aerondight, along with detailed answers:
1. When is the best time to acquire Aerondight?
It doesn’t truly matter when you obtain Aerondight. It scales with you, so acquiring it earlier simply means you’ll have a powerful weapon throughout more of your playthrough. Get it as soon as you’re able to complete the “There Can Only Be One” quest.
2. Can Aerondight be upgraded with runes?
Yes! Aerondight can have sockets added and runes applied by the Runewright in Hearts of Stone. This allows for further customization and enhancement of the sword’s abilities. Adding rune slots to Aerondight allows further customization, allowing you to add effects like increased burning chance, bleeding chance, or even increased sign intensity. Experiment to find the perfect combination for your playstyle.
3. Does Aerondight work against humans?
While Aerondight is a silver sword primarily designed for monsters, it can still be used against humans. However, it’s less effective than a steel sword against non-monster foes. Its true potential shines when facing beasts and specters. So, save it for the monsters, but if you’re caught in a bind with bandits, it’s still a perfectly serviceable weapon.
4. Can Aerondight be sold?
No, Aerondight cannot be sold. This ensures you always have access to this powerful weapon once you’ve earned it.
5. What happens if I lose Aerondight?
You cannot lose Aerondight permanently. The narrative prevents Geralt from being separated from the sword.
6. What are the ideal enchantments for Aerondight?
Enchantments are a matter of personal preference and playstyle. However, popular choices include:
- Preservation: Prevents the sword from losing charge when struck.
- Levity: Makes equipped armor count as zero weight.
- Severance: Increases the range of Whirl and Rend.
7. How do I charge Aerondight quickly?
Use fast attacks and abilities that increase attack speed. Also, consider using oils that increase damage against specific monster types. Combine fast attacks with potions like Thunderbolt and oils like Beast Oil to maximize damage output and charge the sword quickly.
8. Is Aerondight better than other Witcher gear swords?
Generally, yes. While Witcher gear swords like the Grandmaster Feline or Manticore swords are powerful in their own right, Aerondight’s scaling and charge mechanic give it a significant advantage in the long run.
9. Does Aerondight’s damage increase past level 100?
No, the sword’s scaling caps out at level 100.
10. What are the best skills to complement Aerondight?
Skills that enhance attack power, critical hit chance, and adrenaline generation are ideal. “Muscle Memory,” “Precise Blows,” and “Razor Focus” are excellent choices.
11. Is Aerondight worth using on New Game Plus?
Absolutely! Aerondight carries over to New Game Plus, allowing you to start with a significant advantage. Its scaling ensures it remains powerful throughout your second playthrough.
12. How does Aerondight compare to Iris (Olgierd’s sword)?
Iris is a powerful steel sword with a unique “Charge” ability, which is different from Aerondight’s “charge” ability. Iris is a great early-game option. Its ability to unleash stored energy for a powerful attack makes it a situational powerhouse, but Aerondight’s consistent scaling and damage output ultimately make it the superior choice.
13. Can I use Aerondight with a Sign build?
Yes. It will enhance the enchantment put on it. Runes like Invigoration work well with sign builds that focus on multiple sign casts.
14. What is the maximum damage increase with Aerondight?
Aerondight can increase the damage of each hit on an enemy by 10% for a max of 100%. Once fully charged, Aerondight guarantees a critical hit on every attack.
15. Why does everyone love Aerondight so much?
Besides being the most powerful silver sword in the game, Aerondight is designed to be very enjoyable to use. Its scaling mechanic keeps it relevant, its charge mechanic rewards aggressive play, and its overall damage output is unmatched. It truly feels like a legendary weapon worthy of a Witcher.
Conclusion: The Undisputed Champion
Aerondight is more than just a sword; it’s a testament to Geralt’s skill and virtue. Its unique scaling mechanic, coupled with its immense damage potential, makes it the best silver sword in The Witcher 3. Whether you’re a seasoned Witcher veteran or a newcomer to the Continent, acquiring and mastering Aerondight is a rewarding experience that will significantly enhance your gameplay.
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