Highlights
– A fan restored a cut ending scene in The Witcher 3 using REDkit modding tools.
– The restored content adds context to Yennefer’s role in the game’s plot and Geralt’s life.
– CD Projekt Red hasn’t explained why the ending was cut, but narrative changes are common during development.
In an impressive feat of dedication, a fan has unearthed and restored a previously removed ending scene from *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt*. Using the newly released REDkit modding suite, YouTuber Glassfish777 has brought this hidden content to life, offering fans a fresh perspective on the game’s conclusion. This restoration, which focuses on a significant interaction between Geralt of Rivia and Yennefer of Vengerberg, sheds new light on Yennefer’s character and her relationship with Geralt.
The Witcher 3’s Enduring Legacy
Despite being nearly a decade old, *The Witcher 3* continues to captivate players with its expansive, immersive world and intricate storytelling. Thanks to ongoing updates from developer CD Projekt Red, the game maintains a level of interest comparable to major new releases. The community-driven efforts to explore and expand the game, such as this recent restoration, further contribute to its longevity. The REDkit modding suite has been instrumental in enabling fans to delve deeper into the game’s content, much like how modding communities have kept classics like *Skyrim* and *Half-Life* alive and thriving.
Restoring a Hidden Ending
The newly restored ending scene offers a fascinating extension to the aftermath of Geralt’s climactic battle against Eredin Breacc Glas, the primary antagonist and leader of the Wild Hunt. Originally, the game’s ending featured a timely teleportation by Yennefer, but the restored content provides a more detailed and emotional conclusion. In the newly uncovered scene, Geralt awakens in a medical tent after the battle. As he leaves the tent, he converses with Yennefer about the consequences of the Nilfgaard-Skellige war. Yennefer reveals that the war has no victor, largely due to the death of Crach an Craite, the Jarl of Skellige.
Unveiling New Plot Details
The extended ending allows players to further explore the game’s rich narrative. Geralt can now interact with various NPCs to inquire about Ciri’s whereabouts, leading him to attend Crach an Craite’s funeral with Triss Merigold. This somber event serves as a transition to a crucial scene involving Yennefer, Geralt, Triss, and the Lodge of Sorceresses—a significant faction within the Witcher series.
A Betrayal Uncovered
In this newly restored content, Yennefer’s actions take a surprising turn. She betrays the Lodge of Sorceresses after discovering Ciri’s location, revealing that she has struck a deal with the Nilfgaardian emperor, sacrificing the sorceresses’ lives. This twist adds a layer of complexity to Yennefer’s character and sets up potential future storylines within the Witcher universe. Geralt’s reaction to Yennefer’s betrayal is one of disapproval and dismay, highlighting the intricate web of relationships that define the series.
The Mystery of the Cut Ending
CD Projekt Red has not provided an official explanation for why this ending was cut from the final game. However, it’s not uncommon for game narratives to undergo significant changes during development. Entire storylines can be altered or removed for various reasons, from pacing issues to shifts in creative direction. The restored ending raises intriguing questions about the developers’ original vision and what future Witcher games might explore.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Overview
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is the third major installment in the acclaimed Witcher series. Players assume the role of Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned monster hunter navigating a vast, open world filled with contracts and quests. The central plot revolves around the search for Ciri, Geralt’s adopted daughter, who has mysteriously disappeared.
Franchise: The Witcher
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Switch, PC
Release Date: May 19, 2015
Developer: CD Projekt Red
ESRB Rating: M for Mature (Use of Alcohol, Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content)
The restoration of the cut ending in The Witcher 3 by a dedicated fan exemplifies the passion and creativity of the game’s community. This newly revealed content not only enriches the game’s narrative but also keeps the legacy of The Witcher 3 alive and vibrant. As fans continue to explore and expand the game’s universe, The Witcher 3 remains a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted storytelling and immersive gameplay.
