Complete Guide to the Gwent: Old Pals Quest in The Witcher 3

Introduction

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers players a rich tapestry of side quests, mini-games, and card collecting, one of which is Gwent—a popular card game in the game's world. The "Gwent: Old Pals" quest is a delightful side activity that involves Geralt seeking to challenge an old friend to a Gwent match. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough to successfully complete this quest and gain valuable rewards, including new cards for your Gwent deck.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Initiate the Quest
Begin your journey in the Crow's Perch area, specifically within the Velen region.
Speak to the innkeeper at the inn in Crow's Perch to learn about a new Gwent quest available.
Acquiring the quest will direct you to your next steps, where you need to find your old friend, the character named "Cardinal."
Locate Cardinal
Head to the waypoint marked on your map labeled "Cardinal."
You'll find Cardinal in the village of Oxenfurt, which is just east of Velen.
Interact with him to initiate a dialogue about the game and gather additional information.
Gather Gwent Cards
During your conversation, Cardinal will inform you about a few unique Gwent cards available for you to acquire.
Take time in Oxenfurt to check any merchants or players who might have Gwent cards for sale or for play.
You can find and collect some valuable cards here that will strengthen your deck.
Challenge Cardinal to a Game
After gathering the necessary cards, return to Cardinal's location.
Choose the option to challenge Cardinal to a Gwent match.
Prepare your deck by selecting a strong combination of cards and strategy that fits your style.
Win the Gwent Match
Engage in the Gwent match with Cardinal. Be strategic in your plays:

* Use weather cards to negate your opponent’s powerful cards.
* Pay attention to what types of cards Cardinal plays, and adjust your strategy accordingly.
* Apply pressure early in rounds to draw out his stronger cards sooner if possible.

Winning the match is crucial. If you lose, you can always challenge him again.
Claim Your Reward
Upon winning the match, Cardinal will reward you with new Gwent cards.
Have a discussion with him to unlock additional lore related to your past friendship and the game.
Make sure to check your Gwent deck to update it with any newly acquired cards.
End the Quest
After the rewards are claimed and the dialogue ends, you will complete the "Gwent: Old Pals" quest.
You can return to Crow's Perch or any other location to continue your adventures in The Witcher 3.

Conclusion

Completing the Gwent: Old Pals quest not only provides you with new Gwent cards but also deepens the narrative and relationships in the game world. The challenge of defeating Cardinal in Gwent may test your skills, but with some preparation and strategy, you will emerge victorious. Now, gather your cards and prepare for even more Gwent matches as you explore the rich world of The Witcher 3!