The Witcher 3: Siding with Cerys or Hjalmar – A Deep Dive into Skellige’s Succession
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So, you’ve arrived in the wild and windswept isles of Skellige, and find yourself embroiled in a royal succession crisis. The question looms: Should you side with Cerys or Hjalmar to claim the throne? The short answer: Cerys generally offers the most beneficial outcome for Skellige in the long run, and leads to a more satisfying quest experience. Her reign typically results in peace and prosperity, utilizing her cleverness and diplomacy to benefit the islands. Furthermore, siding with Cerys allows access to a unique place of power, granting Geralt an extra skill point.
However, the ‘best’ choice isn’t always about objective benefits. It also hinges on your Geralt’s personality and your own roleplaying preferences. Hjalmar, with his warrior spirit, represents a more traditional Skelligan approach, one of strength and conquest. If your Geralt is a staunch traditionalist or admires a strong hand, supporting Hjalmar might feel more appropriate. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but understanding the consequences of each path is crucial.
Delving Deeper: Cerys’ Approach
Cerys champions a more methodical and strategic approach. Her questline often involves investigation and problem-solving, requiring Geralt to use his Witcher senses and deductive reasoning. By choosing Cerys, you will expose Birna Bran as the true culprit behind the Kaer Trolde massacre. This path often appeals to players who enjoy intricate storylines and prefer brains over brawn. Cerys’ focus on stability and trade leads to a more prosperous Skellige in the game’s epilogue. Her ability to find solutions without resorting to brute force showcases a forward-thinking leadership style.
Examining Hjalmar’s Path
Hjalmar embodies the traditional Skelligan values of strength and courage. His questline is more straightforward, revolving around hunting monsters and demonstrating his prowess in battle. Supporting Hjalmar means embracing a more aggressive and warlike approach. While his bravery is undeniable, his impulsiveness can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. In the long run, Hjalmar’s rule can lead to instability and continued conflict.
The Impact on the Game World
The choice between Cerys and Hjalmar significantly alters the political landscape of Skellige. Cerys’ reign focuses on internal development and peaceful relations, while Hjalmar is more likely to engage in external conflicts. This decision also influences Geralt’s relationships with key Skelligan characters, shaping the overall narrative experience. The epilogue will reflect your choice, illustrating the long-term consequences of your decision on the islands and its people.
The Roleplaying Perspective
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your interpretation of Geralt’s character. Do you see him as a pragmatist who values stability and peace, or as a warrior who respects strength and tradition? Consider Geralt’s past experiences and his personal values when making your decision. This is one reason why The Witcher is considered to be one of the greatest RPG of all time. Roleplaying offers a deeper connection to the game world, making the choices more meaningful and impactful.
A Place of Power and More
Siding with Cerys provides access to an additional skill point and the ability to uncover a hidden place of power. This is an advantage that Hjalmar’s questline does not offer. This makes Cerys’ path preferable for players focused on character progression and maximizing Geralt’s abilities. The added skill point can be a valuable asset in later stages of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does it matter who becomes ruler of Skellige?
Yes, the choice significantly impacts the ending of the game and the overall state of Skellige. The islands will experience either prosperity under Cerys or potential conflict under Hjalmar. Your choice will be reflected in the game’s epilogue.
2. Is there a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ choice between Cerys and Hjalmar?
No, there is no objectively “right” or “wrong” choice. It depends on your roleplaying preferences and what you value in a leader. However, Cerys is generally considered the better ruler due to her strategic and diplomatic approach.
3. How do I trigger the quest to choose the ruler of Skellige?
Complete the quests “Possession” and “The Lord of Undvik.” This will automatically trigger the “King’s Gambit” quest, where you will choose between Cerys and Hjalmar.
4. What happens if I don’t get involved in the succession?
If you don’t get involved, Svanrige Tuirseach will become the ruler of Skellige. This is generally considered the worst outcome, as it leads to instability and potential Nilfgaardian influence.
5. Can I help both Cerys and Hjalmar?
Yes, you can participate in both their quests, but ultimately you must choose one to support. You can complete both of their preliminary quests, but your final choice will determine who ascends the throne.
6. What are the specific benefits of siding with Cerys?
Siding with Cerys allows you to solve the mystery of the Kaer Trolde massacre, exposing Birna Bran. It also leads to a more stable and prosperous Skellige and provides access to a place of power for an extra skill point.
7. What are the specific benefits of siding with Hjalmar?
Siding with Hjalmar aligns with the traditional Skelligan values of strength and courage. His path offers more combat-focused gameplay and a more straightforward questline.
8. Does siding with one sibling affect my relationship with the other?
Yes, your choice can impact your relationship with the sibling you didn’t support. They may express disappointment or even resentment towards Geralt.
9. How much experience do I get for helping Cerys or Hjalmar?
You generally receive around 900 experience points for completing either Cerys’ or Hjalmar’s questline. The experience reward is similar regardless of your choice.
10. Do I get any unique items for siding with Cerys or Hjalmar?
You will receive the crossbow “Death From Above” regardless of who you help. There are no other major unique item differences based on your choice.
11. Is it possible to change my decision after choosing a side?
No, once you have committed to supporting either Cerys or Hjalmar, you cannot change your decision. Be sure to carefully consider your options before making a final choice.
12. How does the ruler of Skellige impact the main story?
The ruler of Skellige affects the allies you can call upon during the final battle against the Wild Hunt. A strong ruler, like Cerys, can provide valuable support.
13. What happens if I fail Cerys’ or Hjalmar’s quest?
If you fail their quest, they may still become ruler, but the outcome will likely be less favorable. The specifics will depend on the circumstances of the failure.
14. Does siding with Cerys or Hjalmar affect my romance options?
No, your choice does not directly affect Geralt’s romance options with Triss or Yennefer. The succession quest is separate from the romance storylines.
15. Can I learn more about the importance of role-playing and how games can be used for educational purposes?
Yes, you can visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to learn more about the educational benefits of games. GamesLearningSociety.org promotes the use of games in learning and education, highlighting their potential to enhance engagement and understanding.