Summary
CD Projekt Red’sThe Witcherhas risen to prominence as one of the most beloved fantasy RPG series since its humble beginnings in 2007. Over the course of two more titles, the franchise skyrocketed in popularity, with a lot of the credit being given to 2015’sThe Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt.The Wild Hunt’s epic tale and memorable characters left a mark on many fans' hearts and minds, and is hailed as a modern classic, often finding itself in the running as one of the best games in the genre. With plans for another title in place, the developer would seem to have its work cut out for it with a follow-up.
While details are presently in short supply, there are a number of indications that CDPR will move on from Geralt of Rivia’s storied journeys to focus on a new main character in the fourth main installment. Though it’s not yet clear who this new protagonist might be, there is one consistent facet of Geralt’s adventures that has greatly contributed to their quality and enjoyment. One of Geralt’s closest companions, flirtatious minstrelJulian Alfred Pankratz aka Dandelion, is often seen caught up in amusing and tricky circumstances, and in need of Geralt’s assistance. Yet the two share a close bond, and the way they play off each other, with Dandelion serving as the lighthearted side of the coin to Geralt’s more measured attitude, is something the studio should endeavor to retain inThe Witcher 4.
IP creator and authorAndrzej Sapkowski has revealed a newWitchernovelthat could possibly serve to provide inspiration for the next game’s characters or plot.
The Next Witcher Game Should Seek to Emulate Geralt and Dandelion’s Dynamic for its New Protagonist
Dandelion is the Yin to Geralt’s Yang
A pairing seen countless times, Geralt and Dandelion play into the trope of the “straight man” and the comedic relief characters, respectively. Throughout the trilogy, Dandelion is portrayed as well-meaning (if sometimes over-ambitious), usually finding himself comically over his head in various situations, but always a firm friend to Geralt, and vice versa. While the two may seem mismatched as friends, that’s also a large part of their appeal, asGeralt’s general gruffnessis balanced by Dandelion’s antics and carefree perspective. His roguish charm contrasts with Geralt’s serious mannerisms, and together they form an extremely likable and entertaining duo.
How the Next Witcher Title Could Iterate on Dandelion and Geralt’s Rapport
Many of the story moments andquests involving DandelionkeptThe Witcher’s tone from remaining too entrenched in dark and gritty territory. The levity he brought was a welcome turn to some of the more harrowing events and characters that Geralt encounters. Dandelion was also far from one-note, and displayed a depth of emotion and intelligence beyond his more farcical traits, adding great heart and a true sense of companionship to both characters.
While much is reliant on speculation for now, a few clues point to the next entry’s protagonist being a member of anew Witcher school, which will certainly inform their personality. Nevertheless, it’s likely they will lean towards a serious disposition. This would allow CD Projekt Red some leeway then in potentially including a figure that serves as a mirror to the main character in the same vein as Dandelion is for Geralt. Some broad characterization options that CDPR could consider that may work well in this regard might be:
Still, no matterwhich directionThe Witcher 4takesin its plot and other elements, it would behoove CDPR to ensure that fans see an ally for its main character that reflects Dandelion and his relationship with Geralt. The next title including a similar dynamic via such a pairing would go a long way towards maintaining the series' quality of storytelling and engaging characters.
