Who Should Rule Skellige in The Witcher 3? A Deep Dive into the Succession Crisis
The islands of Skellige, a land of proud warriors, seafarers, and ancient traditions, face a crucial moment in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: the death of King Bran and the ensuing succession crisis. As Geralt of Rivia, you’ll find yourself deeply involved in this political turmoil. But who is the best choice to rule Skellige? Without a doubt, Cerys an Craite stands out as the most forward-thinking, pragmatic, and ultimately, the best option for the future of the isles. Choosing Cerys is the morally and strategically superior decision.
The Case for Cerys an Craite
Cerys embodies a sharp intellect and a willingness to break from the rigidly traditional, often self-destructive, ways of Skellige. Her strength isn’t brute force, but intelligent problem-solving. During the “King’s Gambit” questline, while her brother Hjalmar an Craite resorts to reckless violence, Cerys investigates the cause of the attack on the coronation feast, uncovering a curse and ultimately saving the assembled clans. This demonstrates her dedication to the well-being of her people and her ability to think critically under pressure.
Her approach to leadership emphasizes innovation and progress. She aims to improve the lives of Skelligers through peaceful trade, fostering alliances, and addressing the underlying problems that plague the isles. This contrasts sharply with Hjalmar’s more simplistic approach, which relies heavily on raiding and brute force – tactics that are becoming increasingly unsustainable in a changing world.
Choosing Cerys isn’t just about picking the “nicest” character. It’s about recognizing that Skellige needs a ruler who can adapt to survive and thrive in a world increasingly dominated by powerful empires and political intrigue.
The Downfalls of Hjalmar an Craite
While Hjalmar possesses undeniable courage and charisma, he lacks the strategic thinking necessary to lead Skellige effectively. He is a skilled warrior and raider, but his solutions to problems often involve violence and aggression. While these qualities might have served Skellige well in the past, they are less suited to the challenges of the present.
Hjalmar’s quest for glory and his tendency to act impulsively can lead to disastrous consequences. His rash decisions during “The Lord of Undvik” quest, although born from a desire to avenge his men, highlight his lack of strategic foresight. His rule would likely lead to increased conflict with neighboring kingdoms and potentially destabilize the region.
The Alternative: Svanrige Tuirseach
The third option, Svanrige Tuirseach, husband of Cerys’ younger sister, is arguably the worst choice of all. Svanrige represents a rigid adherence to tradition and a desire to maintain the status quo. He lacks the charisma and respect of the other candidates, and his policies would likely stifle progress and innovation in Skellige. Electing Svanrige would lead to stagnation and decline.
Impact on the Main Game
Your choice of Skellige’s ruler has significant repercussions for the overall narrative of The Witcher 3. A strong and stable Skellige, under the leadership of Cerys, can provide valuable support in the fight against the Wild Hunt. Conversely, a divided or weakened Skellige under Hjalmar or Svanrige would be less effective in this crucial conflict.
The Roleplaying Perspective
From a roleplaying perspective, supporting Cerys aligns with Geralt’s pragmatic and problem-solving nature. Geralt often favors solutions that minimize bloodshed and promote stability. Cerys’s approach to leadership reflects these values, making her a natural ally for the Witcher. Furthermore, helping Cerys allows Geralt to use his investigative skills and make a tangible difference in the lives of the Skelligers.
Conclusion: Cerys is the Clear Choice
In conclusion, while each candidate for the Skellige throne possesses certain strengths, Cerys an Craite stands out as the most capable and forward-thinking leader. Her intellect, her commitment to her people, and her willingness to embrace innovation make her the best choice for the future of Skellige. Choosing Cerys is not only the most logical decision but also the most morally satisfying one, aligning with Geralt’s values and leading to a more positive outcome for the archipelago.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Skellige Succession
1. What exactly influences the Skellige ending?
Your choices during the “King’s Gambit” questline, specifically which sibling you help investigate the attack on the coronation, determine who becomes the ruler of Skellige. Supporting Cerys or Hjalmar leads to them taking the throne. Choosing neither results in Svanrige becoming king. Your choice is the single biggest influence on Skellige’s future.
2. Does killing Radovid affect who rules Skellige?
No, killing Radovid does not directly impact the Skellige succession. The “Reason of State” questline, involving Radovid’s assassination, is separate from the Skellige storyline. Radovid’s death and who you side with in that questline mainly impacts the Northern Kingdoms’ political landscape.
3. Is there a “canon” choice for the Skellige ruler?
CD Projekt Red has not declared a “canon” choice. However, given Cerys’s strategic thinking and focus on peace and prosperity, many players and critics consider her to be the most fitting ruler for Skellige.
4. What are the benefits of helping Cerys?
Helping Cerys allows you to investigate the cause of the attack, revealing a curse and ultimately saving the assembled clans. This demonstrates her intelligence and earns the respect of the Skelligers. It also leads to a more prosperous and stable Skellige under her rule. You also receive 900 experience points.
5. What are the benefits of helping Hjalmar?
Helping Hjalmar involves fighting monsters and showcasing his strength and courage. While this appeals to the traditional Skelligan values, it doesn’t address the underlying problems facing the archipelago. You also receive 900 experience points, and both give you the Death From Above crossbow.
6. Can I romance Cerys or Hjalmar?
No, neither Cerys nor Hjalmar are romance options for Geralt.
7. What happens if I don’t help either Cerys or Hjalmar?
If you don’t actively support either sibling, Svanrige Tuirseach, Cerys’ brother-in-law, will become the ruler of Skellige. This is generally considered the worst outcome, as Svanrige represents stagnation and a lack of vision for the future of the isles.
8. Does my choice affect the ending slides?
Yes, your choice of Skellige ruler is reflected in the game’s ending slides, which describe the fate of the archipelago under their leadership.
9. Is there a “good” or “bad” ending for Skellige?
Most players consider Cerys’s rule to be the “good” ending, as it leads to peace, prosperity, and innovation. Svanrige’s rule is often seen as the “bad” ending, leading to stagnation and decline. Hjalmar’s rule is somewhere in between, maintaining the traditional Skelligan values but potentially leading to conflict.
10. How do I start the Skellige succession questline?
The questline begins after King Bran’s death. You’ll need to attend the wake and speak with Crach an Craite. This will trigger the “King’s Gambit” quest, which leads you down the path of choosing a new ruler. Completing the side quests such as “Possession and The Lord of Undvik” will allow you to get help from other recruits.
11. Does who I choose as ruler impact the Battle of Kaer Morhen?
While a strong Skellige under Cerys can offer more support, the impact on the Battle of Kaer Morhen is relatively minor. Your relationships with other characters and your choices throughout the game have a more significant impact on who participates in the battle.
12. What skills does Cerys possess that make her a good ruler?
Cerys is highly intelligent, has excellent analytical skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and is willing to listen to advice. She focuses on long-term planning and the well-being of her people, rather than short-term gains or personal glory.
13. Are there any hidden consequences to choosing a specific ruler?
While the major consequences are clear (the overall state of Skellige), some minor dialogue and interactions may vary depending on your choice of ruler. These differences are mostly cosmetic and don’t significantly impact the gameplay.
14. Does helping Cerys or Hjalmar affect my relationship with Crach an Craite?
Yes, Crach an Craite is the father of Cerys and Hjalmar. He respects Geralt’s decision, but he will be happy if you chose to help one of his children. Crach is a firm supporter of Skellige’s prosperity and peace.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the impact of choices in games?
You can explore the complexities of game design and how choices impact narrative at places like the GamesLearningSociety.org website. The Games Learning Society promotes research and understanding of how games can be used for education and engagement. You can visit the Games Learning Society to learn more about the intersection of gaming and learning.