Table of contents
Comprehensive Guide to Completing the 'Hard Times' Quest in Witcher 3
Introduction
In "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," the 'Hard Times' quest offers players a chance to delve deeper into the lives of the downtrodden in Novigrad. This side quest unfolds the story of a desperate man and his family struggles, and helps to illustrate the wider themes of poverty and survival within the game. This guide will walk you through each step of the quest, ensuring you make the right choices while exploring the immersive world created by CD Projekt Red.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
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Starting the Quest
- Begin your journey by heading to Novigrad. You can initiate the 'Hard Times' quest by searching for a quest marker located in the southwestern area of the city, specifically near the "Near the Well" signpost.
- Speak to the character named Bertold, who is struggling with the responsibilities of providing for his family.
- After the conversation, you’ll learn that he’s in dire straits and needs your help.
- Begin your journey by heading to Novigrad. You can initiate the 'Hard Times' quest by searching for a quest marker located in the southwestern area of the city, specifically near the "Near the Well" signpost.
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Investigate the Situation
- After hearing Bertold's plight, you’ll be given the option to investigate further.
- Head to the area marked on your map where Bertold's family is currently located (just a short distance from where you met him).
- Upon arrival, you’ll overhear a conversation. Listen carefully as it provides context for current events and the family’s situation.
- Speak to Bertold's wife, who will shed more light on the situation. This may prompt a dialogue option regarding how to help them.
- Head to the area marked on your map where Bertold's family is currently located (just a short distance from where you met him).
- After hearing Bertold's plight, you’ll be given the option to investigate further.
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Gathering Information
- Your next task involves gathering additional information regarding the local situation.
- Visit the nearest tavern, the Kingfisher, and speak with locals.
- You will notice several NPCs who may provide side information or rumors that could aid the main quest.
- Pay attention to hints about a local crime lord or potential solutions they mention. This is crucial for the next step in the quest.
- Visit the nearest tavern, the Kingfisher, and speak with locals.
- Your next task involves gathering additional information regarding the local situation.
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Confronting the Bandits
- Based on the information you've gathered, you’ll likely need to confront a gang responsible for the family's troubles.
- Travel to the location indicated on your quest marker, usually an abandoned site or hideout related to the bandits.
- Prepare for a fight, as you’ll need to confront several enemies.
- Utilize your combat skills neatly—use potions, signs, and dodge maneuverability to your advantage.
- Travel to the location indicated on your quest marker, usually an abandoned site or hideout related to the bandits.
- Based on the information you've gathered, you’ll likely need to confront a gang responsible for the family's troubles.
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Resolving the Conflict
- After defeating the bandits, you’ll have a few options.
- You can either kill the remaining bandits or choose to spare them for a more merciful outcome.
- Be mindful that your choice here will affect the ending of the quest and how Bertold and his family perceive you.
- If you choose to spare them, consider negotiating with them for a truce and potential help for Bertold's family.
- You can either kill the remaining bandits or choose to spare them for a more merciful outcome.
- After defeating the bandits, you’ll have a few options.
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Returning to Bertold
- Once you’ve resolved the bandit situation, head back to Bertold and his family.
- During your return, you may face various encounters or random events, so stay alert.
- On your return, report the outcome of your encounter with the bandits. This is where your dialogue choices significantly impact the outcome.
- Depending on your actions, Bertold may express gratitude or despair, shaping his family's future prospects.
- During your return, you may face various encounters or random events, so stay alert.
- Once you’ve resolved the bandit situation, head back to Bertold and his family.
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Quest Conclusion
- Finish the quest by receiving your reward based on your choices throughout. This could be in the form of gold or items worthy of the effort you’ve exerted.
- Reflect on how your decisions may impact your overall relationship with the citizens of Novigrad as you explore further quests in the game.
- Finish the quest by receiving your reward based on your choices throughout. This could be in the form of gold or items worthy of the effort you’ve exerted.
Conclusion
Completing the 'Hard Times' quest in "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" is a rewarding experience that illustrates the game's intricate storytelling and moral choices. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ve ensured a well-rounded outcome for Bertold and his family. As you continue your journey in the vast world of Geralt of Rivia, remember the weight your decisions carry and how they can shape the fates of those you encounter. Enjoy your adventures!