In the sprawling, open-world universe of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the bustling, tempestuous city of Novigrad stands out as a crown jewel of narrative complexity and immersive gameplay. This metropolis isn’t just a hub for traders and political intrigue; it’s a living, breathing organism that offers gamers a cornucopia of quests, characters, and secrets waiting to be unearthed. Buckle up, Witchers, as we embark on a comprehensive deep dive into the heart of Novigrad—covering key locations, must-do quests, unique characters, hidden treasures, and indispensable exploration tips.
Key Locations
1. Hierarch Square - The vibrant epicenter of Novigrad teeming with life, vendors, and sometimes, a public execution or two. Not only is it a key fast travel point, but it’s also where you’ll find important characters and start lethal contracts that will test your mettle.
2. The Bits - A less savory district known for its ramshackle buildings and a hotbed for the city’s underbelly activities. Dive deep into its corners to uncover quests that expose the grittier side of city life.
3. Crippled Kate’s - This establishment is more than just a brothel. It’s where destinies intertwine, and sometimes, where the key to unlocking your next adventure lies with the person sitting across from you.
4. Passiflora - The most luxurious brothel in Novigrad offers not just fleshly delights but also houses high-stakes Gwent games. The Gwent matches here are not for the faint of heart but offer fantastic rewards.
5. Novigrad Docks - The pulsing heart of the city’s trade, bustling with merchants from across the known world. The docks are a crucial part of several quests and a place where you may board a boat to navigate Novigrad’s waterways for a different view of the city.
6. Temple Isle - Dominating the city’s skyline, this location is critical for several main and side quests. The atmosphere here is steeped with the mystic and the divine, making it a must-visit for those tracking down specific leads in their journey.
Quests in Novigrad
The quests in Novigrad are as diverse as the city itself, weaving a narrative web that ranges from the deeply personal to the epically grandiose.
1. Broken Flowers - A crucial quest that brings Geralt ever closer to finding Ciri. Dealing with Dandelion’s comical messes offers both a lighthearted respite and essential clues.
2. Pyres of Novigrad - This quest thrusts you into the fiery tension between the city’s mages and the Witch Hunters. Your decisions here echo through the storyline, affecting the fate of many.
3. Carnal Sins - A dark, twisting narrative that uncovers the underbelly of Novigrad. This quest is as much a detective story as it is a grim reflection on the city’s society.
4. A Matter of Life and Death - Join Triss Merigold in a daringly bold escapade to save mages from persecution. It’s a quest filled with both tension and charm, offering deeper insight into Triss’s character.
5. Get Junior - A deep dive into the criminal underworld. This questline not only progresses the main story but also offers players choices that shape their relationship with significant powers in Novigrad.
Unique Characters
Novigrad is teeming with characters that are as complex as the city itself. Here are a few notable ones:
1. Triss Merigold - More than just a love interest, Triss is a powerful sorceress with deep ties to Novigrad and its underground mage community. Her quests offer an emotional depth to the game’s narrative.
2. Dandelion - The flamboyant poet and Geralt’s best friend finds himself in quite the pickle in Novigrad. His quests are not just vital to the main storyline but also offer humorous interludes.
3. Priscilla - The talented bard whose beautiful voice captures the essence of Novigrad and whose tragic tale intertwines with one of the game’s darkest quests.
4. Hattori - A master swordsmith hidden within Novigrad. Finding and assisting him not only unlocks a supplier of top-tier weaponry but also provides a glimpse into the city’s politics.
5. Cleaver - A dwarf crime boss whose help you might enlist (or confront) in your quest to dismantle Novigrad’s criminal hierarchy. His character offers a gritty counterpoint to the city’s more polished facades.
Hidden Treasures
Scattered throughout Novigrad are hidden treasures that reward the keen-eyed Witcher with riches untold.
1. The Eternal Fire Shrine near Hierarch Square - A seemingly inconsequential place holds secret riches for those who dare to explore beneath its surface.
2. Beneath the Hanged Man’s Tree - A grim landmark that, surprisingly, guards one of the city’s many hidden caches. Lending a whole new meaning to digging beneath the surface.
3. Locked Houses in the Bits - Many abodes in the poorer districts are bolted shut, hiding treasures and occasionally, secrets tied to Novigrad’s darker narratives.
4. Underwater near the Novigrad Docks - The murky waters conceal prizes for those inclined to take a dive. Remember, the best treasures are often hidden where least expected.
Novigrad Exploration Tips
Navigating Novigrad can be as daunting as slaying the most formidable beasts. Here are a few tips to make your journey smoother:
1. Keep an eye on the notice boards - These are not just for show. Each notice board is replete with contracts, quests, and events that breathe life into your experience.
2. Use the fast travel points wisely - Novigrad is massive. Save time and frustration by utilizing fast travel points whenever possible. Yet, remember that some hidden gems can only be found when wandering aimlessly.
3. Engage with the locals - Whether it’s a simple game of Gwent, a drink at a tavern, or a casual conversation, engaging with Novigrad’s inhabitants not only provides depth but might also lead to unexpected quests.
4. Be prepared for anything - The streets of Novigrad can turn from friendly to hostile in a blink. Ensure your gear is always in top shape, and your potion inventory stocked.
5. Explore the rooftops - Some of Novigrad’s secrets are perched high above the common folk. Finding a way onto the city’s roofs can uncover pathways to hidden treasures or vantage points for breathtaking views.
Venturing through the city of Novigrad is an essential chapter in your Witcher 3 saga, one that promises a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and rewards. Whether you’re here for the Gwent, the glory, or the gritty narrative threads, Novigrad has something to offer for every type of Witcher. Keep this guide handy as you navigate the cobblestone alleys and dark corners of this magnificent city—your epic journey through the heart of Novigrad awaits.