Multiplayer: Single-player Only (Fan-made multiplayer mod for PC)
Setting: Medici (Fictional Mediterranean Island Republic)
Platforms: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Unique Feature: Signature Grappling Hook, Wingsuit, and Parachute traversal; massive physics-based destruction sandbox; liberation of a vast Mediterranean archipelago; Gear Mod system for customizing abilities.
Rebel Fighters (Army of Liberation): As Rico liberates settlements and military bases, AI-controlled rebel fighters will spawn and engage Di Ravello's forces. They act independently but contribute to the chaotic battles and can provide covering fire or draw enemy attention. Rico can sometimes find rebel squads to assist in specific encounters, but he cannot directly command them.
Human (AI-Controlled Rebels)
Mission-Specific Allies (Mario, Dimah, Sheldon, Annika): Key story characters like Mario Frigo, Dimah al-Masri, Tom Sheldon, and Annika Svensson (in DLC) will accompany or assist Rico during specific story missions or provide objectives and intel. They are not persistent controllable companions but play roles in dedicated mission sequences.
Human (Key NPCs)
Rebel Drop Pilots (Implied): Though not visible companions in the traditional sense, pilots from the rebellion deliver requested vehicles, weapons, and gear to Rico's location via Rebel Drops (supply drops). Their efficiency and the range of available items can be improved by collecting Vintage Parts.
Human (AI-Controlled Rebels)
Ciri (Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon - Temporary Playable & AI): During specific story segments, the player takes control of Ciri. She has a unique combat style focused on teleportation (Blink), fast sword attacks, and powerful Elder Blood abilities. When not playable, she sometimes fights alongside Geralt as an AI companion in key narrative moments.
Human (Elder Blood User)
Story-Specific AI Companions (Yennefer, Triss, Eskel, Lambert, Zoltan, Vesemir, Roche, Letho, etc.): During various main story quests and major side quests, key characters will temporarily join Geralt as AI-controlled companions. They provide combat support according to their abilities (e.g., Yennefer uses powerful magic, Lambert fights with Witcher skills, Zoltan uses his axe). Their presence is scripted for those missions and they are not persistently commandable.
Human, Witcher, Dwarf, Sorceress
Roach (Geralt's Horse): Geralt's loyal steed and primary means of long-distance travel. Can be called almost anywhere in the open world. Allows for mounted combat (swinging swords, using Signs/crossbow from horseback). Can be equipped with saddles (stamina), saddlebags (inventory capacity), and blinders (reduce panic). Trophies can be attached for passive buffs.
Equus caballus (Various Breeds/Colors)
Key Collectibles
Di Ravello Tapes: Audio logs recorded by General Di Ravello, scattered across Medici. Collecting these reveals more about his backstory, motivations, and personality. There are 71 tapes in total.
Ancient Tombs: Hidden tombs found in various locations. Each tomb contains a switch that, when activated, contributes to unlocking the U-24 Zabijak, a unique shotgun. There are 23 tombs.
Daredevil Jumps: Specific ramps or locations designed for performing vehicle jumps. Completing all 30 Daredevil Jumps is required for an achievement/trophy.
Vintage Parts: Collectible parts for various weapons and vehicles, found by searching specific locations marked on the map (often after liberating areas or finding intel). Collecting all parts for an item unlocks it for Rebel Drops. There are 79 unique items to collect parts for (weapons, land vehicles, sea vehicles, air vehicles).
Rebel Shrines (Virgin Mary Shrines): Small shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary, scattered across Medici. Lighting all 49 shrines is part of a side activity and unlocks an achievement/trophy.
Tomb Raider Relics (Easter Egg - from 'Lost Explorer' mission): Specific relics found during 'The Lost Explorer' side mission series, referencing the Tomb Raider franchise.
Witcher Gear Diagrams (Scavenger Hunts): Hidden diagrams required to craft and upgrade Witcher School armor and swords. Found by following Scavenger Hunt quests, often in dangerous ruins, caves, or monster lairs across all regions.
Places of Power: Glowing standing stones found throughout the world. Interacting with one for the first time grants Geralt one Ability Point and a temporary significant buff to a specific Witcher Sign. Marked on the map once discovered nearby.
Gwent Cards: Collectible cards for the in-universe card game, Gwent. Acquired by winning matches against NPCs, purchasing from merchants, or as quest rewards. There are hundreds of cards across different factions (Northern Realms, Nilfgaard, Scoia'tael, Monsters, Skellige - DLC). A major side activity with its own questline ('Collect 'Em All').
Hidden Treasures & Smuggler's Caches: Marked on the map as '?' points of interest, often guarded by enemies or monsters. Contain loot chests with gear, crafting materials, money, or diagrams. Smuggler's Caches are typically found underwater in Skellige.
Monster Nests & Bandit Camps: Locations overrun by monsters or bandits. Geralt must defeat all enemies and destroy the nest (for monsters) or loot the main chest (for bandits) to clear the area, earning XP and rewards.
Guarded Treasures: Specific locations marked on the map, usually guarded by a powerful monster or group of enemies, protecting a valuable loot chest.
Persons in Distress (Rescues): NPCs captured by bandits or monsters. Rescuing them often unlocks new merchants, Gwent players, or provides other minor rewards. Marked as '?' until approached.
Spoils of War (Underwater Treasures): Sunken ships or chests in bodies of water, particularly around the Skellige Isles, containing valuable loot. Often requires use of the crossbow against Drowners.
Books, Letters, Notes (Lore Items): Found extensively throughout the world in houses, ruins, on corpses, etc. Provide rich lore, backstory, hints for quests, or initiate new quests. Contributes to the in-game glossary.
Rico's primary tool. Can attach to surfaces for traversal, tether multiple objects/enemies together (up to 6 tethers simultaneously with upgrades), and retract tethers remotely. Upgradable via Gear Mods for strength, speed, and number of tethers.
A wide variety of conventional firearms. Rico can dual-wield one-handed weapons. Examples: CS Negotiator (Grenade Launcher), UPU-210 (Rocket Launcher), Capstone Hydra (Rocket Launcher), Fire Leech (Homing Cluster Rocket), M488 (Multi-Lock Missile Launcher).
Special Weapons (e.g., M488, Fire Leech): Heavy / Unique Firearm
Powerful weapons often found in military bases or unlocked through progression, offering significant destructive capability, such as multi-lock missile launchers or homing rockets.
Versatile C4-like explosives that can be planted on surfaces, vehicles, or enemies and detonated remotely. Can be upgraded to have proximity triggers or increased explosive yield via Gear Mods.
Grenades: Throwable Explosive
Standard fragmentation grenades. Capacity can be upgraded via Gear Mods.
The 'Gravitational Remote Influence Projector' (GRIP) equipped on controllable Mechs in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC, allowing players to pick up and throw objects (including enemies and vehicles) with powerful force.
Eden Spark (Bavarium Sea Heist DLC): Energy Weapon
A powerful Bavarium-powered lightning gun acquired in the 'Bavarium Sea Heist' DLC, capable of chain lightning attacks.
Steel Swords: Melee (Primary vs. Humans & Non-Monsters)
Geralt's primary weapon against human opponents and common animals. Various types exist (e.g., Longclaw, Vitis, various relic swords) with different stats, rune slots, and appearances. Can be crafted or found.
Silver Swords: Melee (Primary vs. Monsters)
Geralt's specialized weapon for fighting monsters, as silver is effective against most supernatural creatures. Similar variety and upgrade paths as steel swords (e.g., Aerondight, various Witcher school silver swords).
Crossbows: Ranged (Utility/Underwater)
A secondary ranged weapon. Primarily used for grounding flying enemies, underwater combat against Drowners, or triggering environmental interactions. Various bolt types can be crafted (standard, broadhead, explosive, tracking).
Specialized sets of swords belonging to different Witcher schools. Each set offers unique stat bonuses and visual styles, often complementing the armor sets of the same school (e.g., Feline swords for fast attacks and bleed, Ursine for strong attacks and adrenaline).
Unique named swords found as quest rewards, loot from powerful enemies, or in hidden locations. Often have special properties, higher base damage, or unique visual designs (e.g., Aerondight, Iris, Winter's Blade).
Armor / Gear Sets
Rico's Default Outfit: Rico's signature attire (leather jacket, jeans) doesn't provide specific numerical armor values. Player survivability is based on health and regeneration, which isn't directly tied to equippable armor pieces in the traditional RPG sense.
Gear Mods (Defensive): While not visible armor, certain Gear Mods can enhance Rico's resilience, such as those that increase his resistance to damage or improve health regeneration, effectively acting as an armor system.
Bavarium Wingsuit (Sky Fortress DLC): The Bavarium Wingsuit itself offers no direct damage resistance but provides enhanced mobility and offensive capabilities which contribute to survivability by allowing Rico to evade attacks and quickly dispatch enemies. It's more of an offensive/traversal tool.
Mech Armor (Mech Land Assault DLC): When piloting Mechs in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC, the Mech itself provides significant protection and firepower. The Mech acts as Rico's temporary armor and weapon platform.
Witcher School Gear Sets (Feline, Griffin, Ursine, Wolven, Viper, Manticore): Sets of matching Chest Armor, Gauntlets, Trousers, and Boots belonging to different Witcher schools. Each set offers specific stat bonuses tailored to a playstyle (e.g., Feline for light armor/fast attacks/crit, Ursine for heavy armor/strong attacks/adrenaline, Griffin for medium armor/Sign intensity). These sets can be crafted using diagrams found via Scavenger Hunt quests and upgraded through multiple tiers (Basic, Enhanced, Superior, Mastercrafted, Grandmaster - with DLC).
Common, Magic, Master, Relic Armor Pieces: Non-Witcher gear armor pieces found as loot, purchased from merchants, or crafted. Categorized by rarity (Common - grey, Magic - blue, Master - yellow/orange, Relic - gold/brown) which influences their base stats, number of rune slots, and potential for unique perks. Can be mixed and matched.
Armor Runestones & Glyphs: Enhancements that can be socketed into armor pieces with available slots. Runestones (typically for swords) and Glyphs (for armor) provide passive bonuses like increased Sign intensity, elemental resistance, health regeneration, or reduced damage from specific enemy types.
Heavy, Medium, Light Armor Types: Armor pieces are generally classified as Light, Medium, or Heavy, affecting Geralt's stamina regeneration rate (Light armor regenerates stamina fastest, Heavy slowest). Certain character skills in the General tree can mitigate these penalties or provide bonuses based on armor type.
Outfits/Customization
Rico's Default Outfit: Rico's iconic attire, typically a leather jacket, jeans, and boots. The base game does not feature extensive customization options for this outfit itself, beyond it getting progressively more worn as he takes damage (cosmetic effect).
DLC & Special Edition Skins (Wingsuit & Parachute): Various DLC packs (e.g., 'Kousavá KēRaras • Stealth Wingsuit & Parachute Skin') and special editions (like the Day One Edition's Weaponized Vehicle Pack which might include themed skins) provided cosmetic skins for Rico's wingsuit and parachute, allowing for visual personalization of these traversal tools.
Bavarium Wingsuit (Sky Fortress DLC): A unique, jet-powered and weaponized wingsuit acquired in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC. It has a distinct appearance and functionality, effectively acting as a new 'outfit' for aerial traversal and combat.
Witcher School Gear (Armor Sets: Feline, Griffin, Ursine, Wolven, Viper, Manticore, Grandmaster variants): Geralt can craft and upgrade full sets of armor (Chest, Gauntlets, Trousers, Boots) belonging to different Witcher schools. Each set provides unique stat bonuses tailored to specific playstyles (e.g., Feline for light armor/fast attacks, Ursine for heavy armor/strong attacks, Griffin for Sign intensity). Visuals change with each upgrade tier (Basic, Enhanced, Superior, Mastercrafted, Grandmaster).
Common, Magic, Master, Relic Armor Pieces: A vast array of non-Witcher gear armor pieces found as loot, purchased, or crafted. These include gambesons, leather jackets, plate armor pieces, trousers, boots, and gauntlets. Categorized by rarity, influencing stats and rune slots. Can be mixed and matched.
Formal Attire (Doublets, Pourpoints - e.g., for Novigrad/Toussaint noblesse): Specific outfits required for certain quests or to fit in with high society, particularly in Novigrad and Toussaint. Often more ornate and less combat-focused.
Dyes (Blood and Wine DLC): The Blood and Wine expansion introduced armor dyes, allowing players to change the color of most Witcher gear and some other armor pieces using specific dye formulas and ingredients.
Hairstyles & Beards: Geralt can visit barbers in towns and cities to change his hairstyle and beard style. His beard also grows dynamically over time if not shaved.
Trophies (Monster Trophies for Roach): Defeating certain powerful monsters or winning horse races can reward Geralt with trophies that can be equipped to his horse, Roach, providing small passive bonuses (e.g., +% gold, +% dismemberment chance). These are also visually displayed on Roach.
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World & Exploration
World & Level Design
N/A
The game features several large, distinct open-world regions rather than one single contiguous map. These include: White Orchard (prologue area), Velen & Novigrad (a massive combined region of swamps, forests, battlefields, and the large city of Novigrad), Skellige Isles (an archipelago of mountainous, Viking-inspired islands), Kaer Morhen (a smaller mountainous region with the Witcher keep), and later through DLCs, Toussaint (a vibrant, fairy-tale duchy). The total landmass is estimated to be very large (e.g., Velen/Novigrad alone is often cited as over 100 sq km, with Skellige adding another significant portion). Each region is densely packed with quests, points of interest, monster nests, and hidden treasures.
Playable Vehicles
Civilian & Military Cars/Trucks/Bikes: Land Vehicle (Transport / Light Combat / Utility)
A vast array of cars (sports cars, sedans, beaters), pickup trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and larger trucks. Military versions are often armored and may have mounted weapons. Can be hijacked or called in via Rebel Drop.
Tanks & Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs): Land Vehicle (Heavy Combat)
Heavily armored and armed vehicles like tanks (e.g., CS Odjur, Urga Mstitel) and APCs, primarily used by Di Ravello's forces. Rico can hijack and operate these for immense destructive power.
Helicopters (Attack & Transport): Air Vehicle (Combat / Traversal)
Includes attack helicopters armed with missiles and machine guns (e.g., U-7 Dravec, CS Navajo), as well as transport helicopters (e.g., Mugello Pescespada SX). Essential for aerial combat and rapid deployment across Medici's islands.
Fighter Jets & Planes: Air Vehicle (Fast Combat / Traversal)
Fixed-wing aircraft ranging from fighter jets (e.g., CS7 Thunderhawk, U-24 Zabijak - also a weapon) with advanced weaponry to cargo planes (e.g., CS Peregrine) and smaller prop planes. Used for high-speed travel and air-to-ground/air-to-air attacks.
Boats & Naval Craft: Water Vehicle (Transport / Combat)
Various watercraft for navigating Medici's extensive coastlines and seas, including small fishing boats, speedboats (e.g., Pescatore GSL), patrol boats (often armed), and larger military vessels like destroyers (e.g., CS Powerrunner 77).
Includes unique or specialized vehicles like Formula 1 cars (Mugello Vistosa), monster trucks (Urga Pocomotive X), construction vehicles, and the massive land-based 'FOWs' (Forward Operating Bases) which are more like mobile fortresses than simple vehicles.
A heavily upgraded, jet-powered and weaponized wingsuit equipped with Bavarium machine guns and missiles. Allows for sustained flight and aerial combat. Acquired in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC.
Mechs (Mech Land Assault DLC): Bipedal Combat Walker
Controllable Mechs introduced in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC. Equipped with powerful weapons including the GRIP (gravity gun) for manipulating objects and enemies, and other energy weapons or machine guns.
A heavily armed speedboat featured in the 'Bavarium Sea Heist' DLC, equipped with multi-lock missiles and machine guns, designed for naval combat.
Roach (Geralt's Horse): Primary Mount / Living Vehicle
Geralt's loyal and ever-present horse (regardless of how many times a 'Roach' might perish, the next one is also named Roach). Essential for traversing the vast open world. Can be called with a whistle. Allows for mounted combat, and can be equipped with saddles (for stamina), saddlebags (for increased inventory weight), blinders (to reduce panic), and trophies (for passive buffs).
Boats (Skiffs, Sailboats): Watercraft
Used for navigating rivers, lakes, and the seas around the Skellige Isles. Includes small rowboats/skiffs and larger sailboats. Some boats are equipped with a fast travel point. Vulnerable to Sirens and other aquatic threats.
Fast Travel (Signposts): Map Traversal Mechanic
Once Geralt discovers a Signpost in the world, he can use it (or any other discovered Signpost) to instantly travel to any other known Signpost location, greatly reducing travel time across large distances.
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Story & Characters
Main Characters
Rico Rodriguez: Protagonist / Former Agency Operative / 'The Dictator Removal Specialist'
The main playable character. A highly skilled operative with expertise in demolition, combat, and extreme traversal using his grappling hook, wingsuit, and parachute. Returns to his homeland of Medici to liberate it from General Di Ravello.
General Sebastiano Di Ravello: Main Antagonist / Dictator of Medici
The brutal military dictator of Medici who rules with an iron fist and exploits the island's Bavarium resources for his own nefarious purposes. He is Rico's primary target.
Dimah al-Masri: Ally / Scientist
A brilliant scientist who was forced to work for Di Ravello on Bavarium weapons. She defects and aids Rico and the rebellion with her technical expertise and knowledge of Bavarium.
Mario Frigo: Ally / Rebel Leader / Rico's Childhood Friend
Rico's best friend from childhood and a key figure in the Medician rebellion against Di Ravello. Provides Rico with missions and support.
Tom Sheldon: Ally (Ambiguous) / Former Agency Handler
Rico's former Agency handler who appears in Medici with his own agenda, often assisting Rico but with questionable motives. A recurring character in the Just Cause series.
A rebellious smuggler and pilot who assists Rico in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC against the eDEN Corporation and their Sky Sentinels.
Rosa Manuela: Ally / Rebel Propagandist
A voice for the rebellion, often heard on radio broadcasts, inspiring the people of Medici to rise up against Di Ravello.
Zeno Antithikara (Mentioned): Scientist / Creator of Bavarium tech (Deceased)
A scientist who pioneered Bavarium technology and was Dimah's mentor. His work was twisted by Di Ravello.
Geralt of Rivia: Protagonist / Witcher (School of the Wolf)
The main playable character. A renowned professional monster slayer, mutated and trained from a young age. He is searching for his adoptive daughter, Ciri, while navigating complex political conflicts and personal relationships. Known for his dry wit, pragmatism, and combat prowess.
The ashen-haired princess of Cintra and possessor of the Elder Blood, granting her immense magical power, including the ability to travel through space and time. Geralt's adoptive daughter, pursued by the Wild Hunt. Playable in specific story segments, showcasing her unique teleportation-based combat style.
Yennefer of Vengerberg: Ally / Sorceress / Geralt's True Love
A powerful and ambitious sorceress from the Lodge of Sorceresses, Geralt's on-again, off-again lover, and a mother figure to Ciri. Known for her striking beauty (violets and gooseberries scent), sharp intellect, and complex morality.
A skilled Temerian sorceress, close friend to Geralt and Yennefer, and another important figure in Ciri's life. Known for her kindness, loyalty, and powerful fire magic. A potential romantic interest for Geralt.
Vesemir: Ally / Witcher Mentor (School of the Wolf)
The oldest and most experienced Witcher at Kaer Morhen, serving as a father figure and mentor to Geralt and other Witchers. Wise, grizzled, and highly skilled.
Dandelion (Julian Alfred Pankratz, Viscount de Lettenhove): Ally / Bard / Geralt's Best Friend
A flamboyant and renowned poet, minstrel, and Geralt's loyal (if sometimes troublesome) best friend. Often provides comic relief and narrates parts of the story through his ballads.
A boisterous and fiercely loyal dwarven warrior and friend of Geralt and Dandelion. Always ready for a fight or a game of Gwent.
Emperor Emhyr var Emreis (The White Flame Dancing on the Barrows of his Foes): Antagonist / Ruler of Nilfgaard / Ciri's Biological Father
The powerful and ruthless Emperor of Nilfgaard, waging war against the Northern Kingdoms. He is Ciri's biological father and seeks to find her for political and personal reasons.
Eredin Bréacc Glas (King of the Wild Hunt): Main Antagonist / Leader of the Wild Hunt
The fearsome king of the Aen Elle elves from another dimension, leader of the spectral Wild Hunt. He relentlessly pursues Ciri to harness her Elder Blood power for his own purposes.
Imlerith & Caranthir Ar-Feiniel: Antagonists / Generals of the Wild Hunt
Two of Eredin's most powerful generals. Imlerith is a brutal warrior, while Caranthir is a skilled mage specializing in ice and teleportation.
Phillip Strenger (The Bloody Baron): Key NPC / Warlord of Velen
A complex and tragic figure, a former Temerian soldier who has become the self-proclaimed ruler of Velen. His questline to find his missing wife and daughter is a major, dark storyline.
Keira Metz: Ally / Sorceress / Former Advisor to King Foltest
A sorceress hiding in Velen after the witch hunts. She assists Geralt with information and magic, and has her own ambitions.
Sigismund Dijkstra: Key NPC / Former Head of Redanian Intelligence / Novigrad Underworld Figure
A cunning spymaster and influential figure in Novigrad's criminal underworld. Often an information broker for Geralt, with his own political agenda.
Crach an Craite: Ally / Jarl of Clan an Craite (Skellige)
A powerful and honorable Skellige Jarl, uncle to Ciri through his sister Calanthe, and a friend to Geralt and Yennefer. Father of Hjalmar and Cerys.
An ancient and knowledgeable elven sage with a deep connection to Ciri and the Elder Blood. His motives are often enigmatic, acting as both a guide and a manipulator.
Example Missions
Main Story Campaign (Liberating Medici)
A series of narrative missions following Rico Rodriguez's efforts to overthrow General Di Ravello and free his homeland of Medici. This involves destabilizing Di Ravello's regime by destroying his military infrastructure, rescuing key allies like Dimah al-Masri, and ultimately confronting the General himself.
Province Liberation
Systematically liberating all settlements and military bases within each province of Medici's three main regions (Insula Fonte, Insula Dracon, Insula Striate). This is achieved by destroying all designated "Chaos Objects" (e.g., propaganda speakers, statues, fuel tanks, military hardware) in each location. Liberating provinces unlocks new missions, challenges, Rebel Drops, and fast travel points.
Challenges (Various Types)
Completing numerous optional challenges scattered across Medici. These include: Destruction Frenzies (cause as much damage as possible with a specific weapon/vehicle), Races (car, boat, plane), Wingsuit Courses, Scrapyard Scrambles (collecting Bavarium), Crash Bomb challenges, and Shooting Galleries. Achieving high scores (gears) unlocks Gear Mods.
Random Encounters / Encounters of Chance
Dynamic, short events that occur as Rico explores Medici, such as helping stranded rebels, defending rebel outposts, or intercepting Di Ravello's couriers. These provide small rewards and Chaos points.
Ancient Tomb Exploration
Finding and exploring 23 hidden Ancient Tombs. Activating the altar in each tomb lights a candle, and lighting all of them unlocks the U-24 Zabijak, a unique mortar-like shotgun.
Sky Fortress DLC Campaign
A new storyline where Rico, with the help of Annika Svensson, infiltrates the massive Sky Fortress airship and battles the eDEN Corporation's forces and their advanced drone technology, utilizing the new Bavarium Wingsuit.
Mech Land Assault DLC Campaign
Rico travels to the new island of Lacrima to liberate it from The Black Hand, who are harvesting Bavarium with powerful Mechs. Players can pilot these Mechs, equipped with GRIP gravity guns and other weapons.
Bavarium Sea Heist DLC Campaign
Rico infiltrates Di Ravello's secret offshore Bavarium research facility, 'The Stingray,' utilizing a new heavily armed rocket boat ('Loochador') and acquiring the Eden Spark lightning gun.
Main Questline (The Wild Hunt & Ciri's Fate)
A sprawling narrative following Geralt's search for Ciri across Velen, Novigrad, and Skellige, while evading and eventually confronting the otherworldly Wild Hunt. Involves major plot points, character reunions, political intrigue, difficult choices, and epic battles. Culminates in one of several possible endings based on player actions.
Witcher Contracts
Monster hunting assignments taken from notice boards or directly from NPCs. Geralt must investigate the monster sighting, track the beast using his Witcher Senses, learn its weaknesses from the Bestiary, prepare accordingly (oils, potions, bombs, Signs), and then slay or deal with the monster. Rewards include coin, XP, and sometimes unique items or diagrams.
Secondary Quests (Major Side Storylines)
Often lengthy and narratively rich optional questlines that delve into the stories of key supporting characters (e.g., Yennefer, Triss, Keira Metz, The Bloody Baron, Crach an Craite's children Hjalmar & Cerys, Vernon Roche, Sigismund Dijkstra) or explore significant political or social issues within a region. Many feature impactful choices.
Treasure Hunts & Scavenger Hunts (Witcher Gear)
Quests initiated by finding maps or notes that lead to hidden stashes of valuable loot (Treasure Hunts) or diagrams for crafting powerful Witcher School gear (Scavenger Hunts). Often involve exploring ruins, caves, or solving light environmental puzzles.
Gwent Quests (Card Collection & Tournaments)
A series of quests related to playing and collecting Gwent cards. Includes challenging unique NPCs to matches to win their rare cards, participating in major Gwent tournaments (like the one at the Passiflora in Novigrad), and ultimately aiming to 'Collect 'Em All'.
Fistfighting Championships
A series of unarmed brawling tournaments across Velen, Novigrad, and Skellige, where Geralt fights progressively tougher opponents to become champion of each region.
Horse Races
Participate in horse races against NPCs in various regions. Winning races rewards unique horse equipment (saddles, saddlebags, blinders) and money.
Numerous '?' markers on the map that represent small combat encounters or explorable locations. Clearing these provides XP, loot, and contributes to regional completion.
Hearts of Stone DLC Main Questline
A dark and compelling new main story involving Geralt making a pact with the enigmatic Gaunter O'Dimm (Master Mirror) to fulfill three impossible tasks for Olgierd von Everec, an immortal nobleman. Set primarily in the northeastern Velen/Novigrad region.
Blood and Wine DLC Main Questline
Geralt travels to the vibrant, idyllic duchy of Toussaint to investigate a series of brutal murders. This expansion features a new massive region, a complex storyline involving vampires, knights, and courtly intrigue, and introduces new game mechanics like vineyard management (Corvo Bianco) and Mutations.
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Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
Just Cause 3 is officially a single-player only experience. While Avalanche Studios did not develop official multiplayer, a popular fan-made multiplayer mod was created and released for the PC version by the modding community, enabling unofficial online experiences.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a purely single-player experience. There are no multiplayer modes.
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Editions & DLC
Available Editions
Just Cause 3 was released with a Standard Edition and a Day One Edition (included Weaponized Vehicle Pack). The XL Edition bundled the base game with the 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass.' The XXL Edition (often available digitally) typically includes the base game, the Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass, the Weaponized Vehicle Pack, and the Explosive Weapon Pack.
Available in Standard Edition. A Collector's Edition included a Geralt vs. Griffin statue, SteelBook, artbook, medallion, map. Later, a Game of the Year Edition (or Complete Edition) was released, bundling the base game with both major expansions ('Hearts of Stone' and 'Blood and Wine') and all free DLCs. The Next-Gen Update (Patch 4.0) was a free upgrade for existing owners on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Post-Launch Content / DLC
The primary post-launch content was the 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass,' which included three major story-driven DLCs: 'Sky Fortress' (introducing a jet-powered, weaponized Bavarium Wingsuit and missions against aerial Sky Sentinels), 'Mech Land Assault' (allowing players to pilot powerful Mechs equipped with gravity guns on the new island of Lacrima), and 'Bavarium Sea Heist' (featuring a heavily armed rocket boat, the 'Loochador,' the Eden Spark lightning gun, and missions against Di Ravello's offshore Bavarium research facility, The Stingray).
CD Projekt Red released 16 free DLCs (cosmetic items, small quests, New Game+). Two major paid expansions were released: 'Hearts of Stone' (a lengthy, dark, and story-focused adventure with new characters and a compelling narrative) and 'Blood and Wine' (a massive expansion set in the new region of Toussaint, with a new main storyline, numerous side quests, new monsters, gear, and a player home vineyard). Both expansions are critically acclaimed.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was Just Cause 3 released? A: Just Cause 3 was released on December 1, 2015, for PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Q: Who is the main character in Just Cause 3? A: The protagonist is Rico Rodriguez, the series' recurring hero, known for his expertise with the grappling hook, wingsuit, parachute, and causing spectacular destruction.
Q: What is the setting of Just Cause 3? A: The game is set in Medici, a fictional Mediterranean island republic, Rico's homeland, which is under the oppressive rule of dictator General Sebastiano Di Ravello.
Q: What are the key traversal tools in Just Cause 3? A: Rico's signature tools are the Grappling Hook (for tethering objects and quick movement), the Wingsuit (for high-speed gliding), and the Parachute (for controlled descent and aerial combat). These can be used in combination for dynamic traversal.
Q: How does liberation work in Just Cause 3? A: Players liberate provinces by destroying specific "Chaos Objects" (e.g., propaganda billboards, statues, fuel tanks, military installations) within enemy-controlled settlements and military bases. This inspires the local population to join the rebellion.
Q: Does Just Cause 3 have multiplayer? A: Officially, Just Cause 3 is a single-player game. However, a popular fan-made multiplayer mod was developed for the PC version, allowing for unofficial online experiences.
Q: What major DLCs are available for Just Cause 3? A: The 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass' included three major DLCs: 'Sky Fortress' (introducing a jet-powered, weaponized Bavarium Wingsuit and missions against Sky Sentinels), 'Mech Land Assault' (allowing players to pilot powerful Mechs on the new island of Lacrima), and 'Bavarium Sea Heist' (featuring a rocket boat, the Eden Spark lightning gun, and missions against The Stingray battleship).
Q: What are Gear Mods in Just Cause 3? A: Gear Mods are upgrades for Rico's abilities and equipment, unlocked by completing various challenges throughout Medici. They are categorized into Tethers, Traversal, Destruction, Weapons, and Vehicles, allowing players to customize aspects like tether strength, grenade capacity, or wingsuit agility.
Q: Is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt the end of Geralt's story? A: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and its 'Blood and Wine' expansion are considered the definitive end of Geralt of Rivia's saga as told by CD Projekt Red. While the Witcher universe continues in other media, the developers have stated this game concludes Geralt's main storyline.
Q: Do I need to play The Witcher 1 and 2 before The Witcher 3? A: While The Witcher 3 is designed to be accessible to newcomers, playing the previous games (or at least being familiar with their stories) significantly enhances the understanding of the characters, world politics, and recurring plot threads. The game does allow importing saves from The Witcher 2 on PC to reflect some past choices.
Q: What is Gwent? A: Gwent is an in-universe collectible card game that Geralt can play with numerous NPCs. It involves building decks for different factions (Northern Realms, Nilfgaard, Scoia'tael, Monsters, Skellige) and strategically playing unit and spell cards across three rows to win two out of three rounds. It became so popular it spawned a standalone Gwent game.
Q: How important are choices in The Witcher 3? A: Player choices are extremely important and have far-reaching consequences. Decisions made in main quests, side quests, and even dialogues can affect character relationships, the fate of individuals and communities, regional politics, and ultimately lead to one of several distinct endings for Geralt, Ciri, and the world.
Q: What are Witcher Contracts? A: Witcher Contracts are side quests where Geralt undertakes his professional duty: hunting down and slaying dangerous monsters for a negotiated fee. These typically involve investigation (tracking, examining clues with Witcher Senses), preparation (learning about the monster's weaknesses, brewing appropriate potions/oils), and a challenging boss fight.
Q: What did the Next-Gen Update (Patch 4.0) change? A: The Next-Gen Update, released in December 2022, brought significant visual enhancements like ray-traced global illumination and ambient occlusion, improved textures and foliage, faster loading times (on supported hardware), new camera options, integrated community-made mods, quality-of-life improvements, and new content inspired by The Witcher Netflix series. It also increased system requirements, particularly for PC.
build
Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
Utilizes the Apex Engine (Avalanche Engine) to render the large Mediterranean archipelago of Medici with diverse environments, from sunny beaches to snowy mountains. Known for its impressive physics-based destruction, allowing for creative demolition of structures and military assets. Visuals focus on vibrant colors and spectacular explosive effects.
Powered by REDengine 3, The Witcher 3 was renowned for its stunning visuals at launch, showcasing vast, detailed landscapes, realistic weather systems, and expressive character models. The Next-Gen Update (Patch 4.0) significantly enhanced visuals on PC and current-gen consoles, adding ray-traced global illumination and ambient occlusion, improved screen space reflections, higher resolution textures, and denser environments, making it visually competitive with modern titles.
Audio & Soundtrack
Features an orchestral score composed by Henry Jackman, with additional music by Just Cause series composers. The music dynamically adapts to the on-screen chaos and action. Sound design emphasizes large-scale explosions, vehicle sounds, and weapon effects fitting the game's destructive nature.
Original score composed by Marcin Przybyłowicz and Mikołaj Stroiński, featuring a blend of orchestral arrangements, Slavic folk music influences, and haunting ambient tracks. The soundtrack, particularly tracks like 'The Wolven Storm (Priscilla's Song)' and various battle themes, is highly praised. Sound design is immersive, with distinct monster sounds, environmental ambiances reflecting different regions, and impactful combat effects.
User Interface (UI/UX)
The UI features a minimalist design to keep the focus on the action. Key elements include a map of Medici, objective markers, ammo/health indicators, a gear mod selection interface, and contextual prompts for grappling, parachuting, and wingsuiting. A 'Chaos' meter tracks destruction, unlocking missions and items.
Features a customizable HUD displaying health, stamina, toxicity, equipped Signs, and a mini-map. A radial menu allows quick selection of Signs, potions, bombs, and pocket items. Inventory, character (skills, gear), alchemy, crafting, journal, and world map are accessed through a comprehensive menu system. The Bestiary provides information on monsters and their weaknesses.
Accessibility Options
Just Cause 3 includes standard accessibility options for its time, such as subtitle display (on/off), remappable controls (keyboard & mouse, controller support), separate volume controls for master audio, music, SFX, and voice. Options like aim assist toggle and adjustable sensitivity are also present. Advanced features like colorblind modes or extensive UI scaling were not prominent.
The original release had limited accessibility options. The Next-Gen Update and subsequent patches improved this, adding features like customizable subtitles (size, background), options for font size, HUD scaling, control remapping (PC), options to reduce camera motion/head bob, and gameplay settings like auto-looting and alternative QTE inputs.
720p (HD) - Minimum (Target: 720p-1080p, Low-Medium settings, ~30 FPS)(Low to Medium Preset.)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU. Performance depends heavily on specific model's sustained clocks and cooling.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU with 2GB VRAM.
GPU (Laptop): Targets playable framerates at 720p Low or 1080p very Low. **2GB VRAM is an absolute minimum and may require texture compromises.** Performance highly variable based on specific laptop GPU model and TGP.
RAM: 6GB-8GB RAM. Dual-channel configuration highly recommended.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-2500K, 3.3 GHz or AMD Phenom II X6 1075T 3.0 GHz
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670 (2GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon HD 7870 (2GB VRAM)
laptop_macCPU (L): Intel Core i5-4200M / AMD A10-7400P or newer mobile CPUs with at least 2 cores/4 threads. An Intel Core i5 U-series (6th gen+) or Ryzen 3 U-series (2000 series+) would be better.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 860M (2GB), NVIDIA GeForce 940MX (GDDR5, 2GB); OR AMD Radeon R7 M440 (4GB, performance may vary). A GTX 960M (2GB/4GB) or GTX 1050 Laptop (2GB/4GB) would be a more comfortable minimum.
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 54 GB available space (SSD Recommended)
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1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (Original - 1080p ~30 FPS, Low/Medium Preset)(Low to Medium Preset (Original Game))
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for original release.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU. Modern i3/Ryzen 3 sufficient for original.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU for original release.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs for original release.
RAM: Minimum RAM for original release.
Storage: HDD minimum for original.
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memoryCPU: Intel CPU Core i5-2500K 3.3GHz or AMD CPU Phenom II X4 940
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 or AMD Radeon HD 7870
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 765M / AMD Radeon R9 M270X or better. **Modern integrated graphics could handle original low settings. An RTX 3050 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile would easily max out original settings and run Next-Gen medium/high.**
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU.
CPU (Laptop): Recommended laptop CPU for a solid 1080p experience at higher settings.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p High with 3GB+ VRAM.
GPU (Laptop): Targets ~60 FPS at 1080p High. **Ensure adequate TGP for NVIDIA cards.** 3GB VRAM is a minimum for this tier on laptops, 4GB+ strongly recommended for smoother performance.
RAM: 8GB RAM in dual-channel strongly recommended for optimal performance.
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU for original release 1080p High.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range laptop CPUs for original.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for original 1080p High.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance laptop GPUs for original.
RAM: Recommended RAM for original release.
Storage: SSD recommended for original.
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memoryCPU: Intel CPU Core i7-3770 3.4GHz or AMD CPU FX-8350 4GHz
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 770 or AMD Radeon R9 290
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970M / GTX 1050 Ti Mobile or AMD Radeon RX 470 Mobile. **An RTX 3060 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile will run original maxed out at high FPS and handle Next-Gen High settings well.**
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 50 GB SSD
save Overall Storage
Spec: 54 GB available space (SSD Recommended) Note: An SSD is recommended for faster loading times, particularly when fast-traveling or respawning in the large world. Type: SSD
Spec: Approx. 50 GB available space (SSD Recommended). Size may increase with DLCs and HD Texture mods. Note: An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times and smoother world traversal. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows Vista SP2 / Windows 7 SP1 / Windows 8.1 (64-bit Operating System Required) Explanation: A 64-bit version of Windows Vista SP2, 7 SP1, 8.1, 10, or 11 is required.
Spec: Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 10 (64-bit) Explanation: 64-bit OS required. Windows 10/11 64-bit recommended for Next-Gen Update features like ray tracing (DX12).
gamepad DirectX Version
N/A
Spec: DirectX 11 (Original), DirectX 12 (for Ray Tracing in Next-Gen Update) Explanation: DX11 for base game, DX12 required for ray tracing features.
info_outline Other Game Notes
Official PC system requirements for 'Just Cause 3' (released in 2015). An SSD is recommended for better loading times. These requirements reflect hardware from that era and are modest by today's standards.
Laptop Performance Note: Just Cause 3, with its large open world and emphasis on physics-based destruction, can still be somewhat demanding, especially during intense chaotic sequences. For a good laptop experience, a gaming laptop with a dedicated GPU from its release era or newer is recommended. Laptop GPUs and CPUs perform differently than desktop equivalents. **Performance can vary based on the specific laptop model's TGP, cooling, and overall system configuration.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P Impact: While less of a factor than with modern high-wattage GPUs, ensuring the laptop GPU receives adequate power for its class is still important.
Laptop Consideration: Advanced Cooling Thermals: Good cooling helps maintain consistent performance, especially in a game known for numerous explosions and physics calculations that can tax the system.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Performance Sustain: A capable mobile CPU is needed to handle the open-world streaming and physics calculations without significant bottlenecks.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Configuration Speed: 8GB in dual-channel is recommended. While the game might run on 6GB, 8GB provides a much smoother experience.
Laptop Consideration: Display Panel G P U Pairing: Most laptops aiming for these specs will target 1080p. The GPU should be sufficient for this resolution at desired settings.
Laptop Consideration: Driver Updates O S Optimization: Using reasonably up-to-date GPU drivers and a well-maintained OS is beneficial for stability.
Optimization Detail: A P I Choice: The game primarily uses DirectX 11.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, LOD Detail, Water Quality, Anti-Aliasing, and Effects Quality (especially particles and explosions) significantly impact performance.
Game Name: Just Cause 3
Official PC system requirements from CD Projekt Red. The game received a 'Next-Gen Update' (Patch 4.0) in December 2022 which significantly upgraded visuals (including ray tracing) and increased system demands. The requirements below reflect both original and updated recommendations where appropriate.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs may work if their performance is comparable, but TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling are critical. **The Next-Gen Update makes the game very demanding at higher settings, especially with ray tracing.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent performance, especially with RT.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A good CPU is needed for the dense world and NPC interactions.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Next-Gen Update added support for NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: NVIDIA HairWorks (very demanding), Shadow Quality, Foliage Visibility Range, Grass Density, Texture Quality, Ambient Occlusion, Water Quality, and Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections, Shadows, AO - Next-Gen Update) heavily impact performance.
Game Name: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
build Optimization Details
A P I Choice: The game primarily uses DirectX 11.
Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, LOD Detail, Water Quality, Anti-Aliasing, and Effects Quality (especially particles and explosions) significantly impact performance.
Upscaling Tech: Next-Gen Update added support for NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
Key Settings Impact: NVIDIA HairWorks (very demanding), Shadow Quality, Foliage Visibility Range, Grass Density, Texture Quality, Ambient Occlusion, Water Quality, and Ray Tracing (Global Illumination, Reflections, Shadows, AO - Next-Gen Update) heavily impact performance.
laptop Laptop Considerations
G P U T G P Impact: While less of a factor than with modern high-wattage GPUs, ensuring the laptop GPU receives adequate power for its class is still important.
Advanced Cooling Thermals: Good cooling helps maintain consistent performance, especially in a game known for numerous explosions and physics calculations that can tax the system.
C P U Performance Sustain: A capable mobile CPU is needed to handle the open-world streaming and physics calculations without significant bottlenecks.
R A M Configuration Speed: 8GB in dual-channel is recommended. While the game might run on 6GB, 8GB provides a much smoother experience.
Display Panel G P U Pairing: Most laptops aiming for these specs will target 1080p. The GPU should be sufficient for this resolution at desired settings.
Driver Updates O S Optimization: Using reasonably up-to-date GPU drivers and a well-maintained OS is beneficial for stability.
G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent performance, especially with RT.
Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance.
C P U Power Limits: A good CPU is needed for the dense world and NPC interactions.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
info_outline
Laptop recommendations are estimates based on available component benchmarks and game requirements.
Actual performance may vary depending on settings, drivers, cooling, power limits, etc.
Prices and availability subject to change. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.