Should You Take the Money from the Strumpet in Witcher 3? A Definitive Guide
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The question of whether to accept a small payment from a strumpet in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt might seem inconsequential, but it’s one that often pops up among players. The short answer is: yes, absolutely take the money. The game mechanics essentially force you to accept it, even if you initially decline. This particular interaction, offering a paltry 15 Gold, has no tangible impact on the game’s narrative or Geralt’s reputation. You’ll receive the payment regardless of your initial decision, rendering the choice a superficial one. However, this prompts a deeper dive into the financial mechanics of Witcher 3 and when choices do actually matter. Let’s explore this minor interaction and address some related, critical financial decisions in the game.
Understanding the Strumpet’s Offer
Early in your adventures in The Witcher 3, you will encounter a strumpet who, after receiving help from Geralt, offers a small token of gratitude. Specifically, this interaction typically follows assisting her, after which she will offer a modest reward of 15 Gold. The game presents you with the option to accept or refuse this offer. However, regardless of what you choose, the game will notify you that Geralt has received the 15 Gold. This means that, in practical terms, your choice does not matter. This design decision is more of a narrative touch than a true choice with consequences. It’s not a “morality” choice; it’s just a small piece of the world-building in the game. So the question “Should I take the money from the strumpet in Witcher 3?” is moot. You will, without exception, receive it.
The Illusion of Choice
The crucial takeaway here is that not all choices in The Witcher 3 have significant repercussions. This particular scenario serves as an example of how the game can sometimes present an illusion of choice, which is actually not pivotal to the game at all. While many of your decisions do have far-reaching consequences on the narrative, this interaction is not one of them. In essence, this is designed for world-building, not to influence the story. The developers likely included this interaction to enhance the immersive experience of the game rather than to shape your journey through the Northern Kingdoms.
Focusing on Choices That Matter
While the strumpet’s offer is ultimately inconsequential, it serves as a reminder to focus on the choices that do matter. There are several instances in The Witcher 3 where your decisions will significantly affect the narrative, character relationships, and even the game’s ending. For example, one of the most impactful early choices occurs when you assist the merchant in the early hours of the game. This is the primary choice that will impact what ending you get, rather than the choice about the 15 gold. It’s critical to keep this in mind as you play through the game and don’t focus on those choices that end up not mattering.
Financial Strategies in Witcher 3
While the 15 gold from the strumpet is trivial, building wealth is an important part of playing The Witcher 3. Here are some key strategies to consider:
- Monster Hunting: Contracts provide significant income. Mastering monster hunting is crucial for financial success in the game.
- Treasure Hunting: Hidden treasure caches are a valuable source of loot.
- Trading and Crafting: Items you obtain can often be crafted into better items, or traded for profit with merchants.
- Gambling and Mini-Games: If you’re confident, mini-games like Gwent can be very profitable.
- Selling Junk: Always sell or dismantle junk items, as they only take up weight and inventory space.
- Skellige Question Marks: The question marks on the map in Skellige often hold treasure that can be looted for coin.
FAQs: Essential Tips for The Witcher 3 Finances and Choices
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify other aspects of choices and finances within The Witcher 3:
1. Should I take the cards or coin from Zoltan?
When Zoltan offers a reward for your help, choose the three rare Gwent cards over splitting the gold (350 crowns). These cards are important for the side quest “Collect ’em All!” and are more valuable long-term.
2. Is it worth loaning the man money in Skellige?
Yes, it is. If you loan the man money in Skellige, you will find him later in Fyresdal with 220 crowns, netting you a 70 crown profit.
3. Why is Crippled Kate’s empty?
If you complete Contract: Deadly Delights and find Crippled Kate’s empty, fast travel to another map and then back to fix it. This often occurs because of a game glitch.
4. How do you unlock Crippled Kate’s?
To unlock Crippled Kate’s, follow the hoof prints found at the crime scene using your Witcher Senses. These hoof prints will lead you towards the tavern’s front door.
5. Where is the black pearl?
You can find a merchant with black pearls on the islands separating Eldberg Lighthouse from Ard Skellig. You’ll have to swim to reach him.
6. Do you have to pay $1000 to get to Skellige?
Yes, you need at least 1,000 crowns to travel to Skellige, but you will get this money back in the course of the story.
7. Who is the best choice for Skellige’s ruler?
Cerys is considered the best choice for Skellige’s ruler. Her leadership leads to a more peaceful and prosperous Skellige compared to Hjalmar.
8. What should I not miss in White Orchard?
Do not miss the White Orchard Inn. It is the main hub in the area with important characters to interact with.
9. What happens if you don’t bow to the emperor?
Refusing to bow to the Emperor will upset the Chamberlain. While it has no major effect on the plot, it is worth considering that the chamberlain will be punished on Geralt’s behalf.
10. Should I let the Duke live?
There’s no negative consequence to sparing the Duke, so do as you like. He might even be found later resigned to life in the sewers.
11. What is max level in Witcher 3?
The max level in the base game plus Hearts of Stone is 70. However, with the Blood and Wine expansion, the cap increases to 100.
12. Does killing Radovid change anything?
Yes, killing Radovid and siding with Djikstra in Reason of State results in Djikstra ruling with an iron fist and his subjects being discontent.
13. Should I invest 5000 crowns in Witcher 3?
Yes, the 5000 crown investment is worth it, as you receive the Preservation enchantment, which is one of the few enchantments that are worthwhile.
14. Is it worth getting all the question marks in Skellige?
The question marks in Skellige can be worth a lot of money and gear, but they are very out of the way. Consider if they are impeding your enjoyment of the game.
15. Should I go to Novigrad or Skellige first?
Novigrad is recommended first as you are funnelled there from the main quest. The Novigrad story also serves as a prelude to Skellige.
Final Thoughts
While the interaction with the strumpet and the 15 gold is a negligible aspect of The Witcher 3, it opens the door to a broader understanding of the game’s financial and decision-making systems. Knowing which choices truly matter and how to amass wealth is essential for making the most of your experience in this expansive and immersive world. So, take the money; you will receive it anyway and focus your efforts on those decisions and activities that genuinely impact your adventure.