Complete Guide to the Great Erasmus Vegelbud Memorial Derby in Witcher 3

Introduction

In the vast world of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, there are numerous side quests that offer rich experiences and meaningful rewards. One such quest is the Great Erasmus Vegelbud Memorial Derby, a horse racing competition that can be found in the beautiful region of Novigrad. In this guide, we will provide a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough to help you complete this thrilling quest and come out on top.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

• Starting the Quest

  • Head to the Novigrad's pass where the Derby is held.
  • Speak with the Nilfgaardian soldier near the starting line to enter the race.
    • Make sure you have your horse, Roach, ready before talking to him.
    • You need to have completed the "The Horse and His Boy" quest to unlock this Derby.

• Understanding the Race Mechanics

  • Pay attention to the race controls and mechanics.
    • Use the W key (or the corresponding button on consoles) to accelerate.
    • Use the S key (or the corresponding button) to slow down or brake.
    • Use the A and D keys (or the corresponding buttons) to steer your horse.
      • Learn how to weave in and out of lanes and anticipate other racers’ movements.

• Preparation for Victory

  • Consider leveling up your horse for an advantage.
    • Focus on acquiring good horse gear, like saddles or stirrups, which can grant bonuses to your speed and stamina.
    • Engage in previous races or complete other quests to ensure Roach has good stats.

• Starting the Race

  • After you've spoken to the soldier, follow the prompts to begin the race.
    • Keep an eye on the countdown timer—stay calm during the initiation.
    • Start strong by pressing the acceleration button just before the race starts to get a good lead.

• During the Race

  • Manage your stamina carefully.
    • Use stamina boosts (tap the appropriate button) when you feel comfortable maintaining speed.
    • Avoid clashing with other racers; bumping can slow you down significantly.
      • If another racer is ahead, try to find a way to overtake them rather than forcing an aggressive maneuver.

• Navigating the Track

  • Familiarize yourself with the course layout before the race begins.
    • Take note of sharp turns and tricky terrain that could slow you down.
    • Utilize Roach's speed burst ability on straightaways for an edge.

• Finishing Strong

  • Approach the final stretch of the race strategically.
    • Use any remaining stamina boosts to close the gap between you and the leaders.
    • Look for openings, and don’t hesitate to make quick decisions as you approach the finish line.
      • Aim for a smooth finish without colliding with other horses.

• Winning the Race

  • If you cross the finish line first, you'll be greeted with cheers.
    • A cutscene will play, showing your victory.
    • Speak to the celebratory characters afterward to claim your rewards.

• Rewards and Conclusion

  • Upon completing the race, you will receive a sum of Crowns and potentially other rewards like horse gear.
    • Take a moment to savor your victory and the accolades you’ve received.
  • Don’t forget to check your in-game journal for any further quests or objectives that might arise post-race.

Conclusion

Completing the Great Erasmus Vegelbud Memorial Derby in The Witcher 3 is not only exhilarating but also a testament to your skills as a Witcher and a racer. By following this detailed walkthrough, you can confidently navigate the challenges of the Derby and emerge victorious. Race hard, strategize well, and enjoy the thrill of competition in the captivating world of Novigrad!