Should I do DLC before finishing main story Witcher 3?
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The answer to whether you should do DLC before finishing the main story in Witcher 3 is that it depends on your personal playstyle and preferences, but generally, it’s recommended to complete the main game first to get the most out of the story and then proceed with the DLCs, which include Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. Completing the main quest first allows you to experience the story as intended, and then you can dive into the DLCs, which offer additional engaging storylines and gameplay.
Understanding the DLCs
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand what each DLC offers. Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine are two significant expansions that provide new stories, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Hearts of Stone can be played before or after the main story, but it’s recommended to play it after reaching a certain level to ensure you can handle the challenges it presents. On the other hand, Blood and Wine is best played after completing the main story, as it offers a conclusive and satisfying experience.
Deciding the Best Approach
The decision to play DLCs before or after the main story also depends on your level and progress in the game. If you’re looking to experience the story in a linear fashion, completing the main game first is the best approach. However, if you’re looking for a change of pace or want to experience the DLCs without waiting, you can start them before finishing the main story, keeping in mind the level requirements and potential story spoilers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions that can help clarify the best approach for playing Witcher 3 with its DLCs:
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Q: What is the recommended order for playing Witcher 3 DLCs? A: The recommended order is to complete Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, then Hearts of Stone, and finally Blood and Wine.
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Q: Can I play Hearts of Stone before the main story? A: Yes, Hearts of Stone can be played before the main story, but it’s recommended to play it after reaching a level where you can handle its challenges, typically around level 30.
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Q: Does playing DLCs before the main story affect the game’s ending? A: Playing Hearts of Stone before the main story can have some effects on the game, but Blood and Wine is designed to be played after the main story for the best experience.
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Q: How long does it take to complete Witcher 3 with all DLCs? A: Completing Witcher 3 with all DLCs can take at least 150 hours, depending on your playstyle and level of completionism.
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Q: Is Blood and Wine better than the main game? A: Many players consider Blood and Wine to be one of the best parts of Witcher 3, offering a rich story, beautiful visuals, and engaging gameplay.
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Q: What happens if I finish Blood and Wine before the main quest? A: Finishing Blood and Wine before the main quest can result in lower experience points for remaining quests outside of Toussaint, making them less rewarding.
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Q: Should I do Hearts of Stone before Final Preparations? A: It’s recommended to play Hearts of Stone while doing the main quest “Final Preparations” in Novigrad for the best narrative experience.
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Q: Can I complete Blood and Wine before the main story? A: Yes, Blood and Wine is self-contained and can be started at any time, but it’s tailored for characters around level 34.
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Q: Are there any bad endings in The Witcher 3? A: Yes, The Witcher 3 has multiple endings, including some that can be considered “bad” depending on the player’s choices throughout the game.
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Q: Can I play the Citadel DLC after the end of the game? A: The Citadel DLC is designed to be played after the main story and can be accessed after completing the game.
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Q: Should I play Hearts of Stone before or after Skellige? A: Hearts of Stone can be played before or after Skellige, but it’s recommended to play it after returning from Skellige to ensure you’re at an appropriate level.
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Q: How long is the Hearts of Stone DLC? A: Hearts of Stone is approximately 10 hours long for main objectives and up to 18 hours for 100% completion.
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Q: What level should I start Hearts of Stone? A: The recommended level to start Hearts of Stone is 30, as the enemies in the DLC will be challenging at lower levels.
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Q: Can you become a vampire in The Witcher 3 Blood and Wine? A: No, you cannot become a vampire in The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine, as vampires are a separate species in the game’s lore.
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Q: What to do after completing Blood and Wine? A: After completing Blood and Wine, you can explore the game world, complete any remaining quests, or start a new game plus to experience the story again with your leveled-up character.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether to play DLCs before or after finishing the main story in Witcher 3 depends on your personal preferences and playstyle. Understanding the content and level requirements of each DLC can help you make an informed decision. For the most immersive experience, completing the main game first is recommended, followed by Hearts of Stone and then Blood and Wine. Regardless of your approach, Witcher 3 and its DLCs offer an unforgettable gaming experience with deep storytelling, engaging characters, and vast open worlds to explore.