With the announcement of The Witcher 4 trailer, fans are thrilled to see Ciri confirmed as the protagonist. According to the makers, they’ve devised a way to make Ciri a Witcher regardless of which ending you chose in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This bold decision has sparked countless theories about how her return might unfold while respecting the original game’s branching narratives. Here, we present our theories about how she can return as a Witcher after each Witcher 3 ending, as well as how she’ll be nerfed in upcoming game series.
Ciri as a Balanced Protagonist in Witcher 4
Ciri’s Elder Blood makes her one of the most powerful beings in the Witcher universe, capable of interdimensional travel and wielding immense magical abilities. However, such power could disrupt gameplay balance. To address this, her Elder Blood traits might be diminished or suppressed due to the toll of saving the world from the White Frost. Alternatively, undergoing the Trial of Grasses may have altered her physiology, giving her the Witcher enhancements necessary for using potions and signs while muting her overpowered abilities to ensure a more grounded, skill-based experience for players.
After the “Ciri Becomes a Witcher” Ending
If the ending where Ciri chooses the life of a Witcher is canon, her transition into The Witcher 4 is straightforward. Having embraced her new role, she could be taking contracts, exploring uncharted lands, or seeking answers about her Elder Blood. The story might focus on her carving her own path as a Witcher while wrestling with her unique heritage.
After the “Ciri Becomes Empress” Ending
In this ending, Ciri becomes the ruler of Nilfgaard, leaving her Witcher aspirations behind. Her return in The Witcher 4 could stem from a crisis in the kingdom, forcing her to abandon the throne to protect her people. Perhaps a dire event tied to her Elder Blood drives her to the Trial of Grasses, granting her the tools necessary to face a new existential threat while leaving her royal identity behind.
After the “Ciri Dies” Ending
The “Ciri Dies” ending poses the biggest challenge narratively. However, the makers’ confirmation suggests her Elder Blood could play a pivotal role in her survival. Perhaps she was never truly “dead” but instead transported to another realm, where she was reborn or transformed. This could serve as a jumping-off point for her to undergo the Trial of Grasses and become a Witcher, ready to face new challenges.
A Unified Canon for Ciri’s Return in Witcher 4
The makers’ assurance that Ciri will return as a Witcher after any ending indicates a narrative twist that bridges all possible outcomes. Whether through a multiverse connection, a pivotal sacrifice, or the influence of her Elder Blood, The Witcher 4 is set to weave a cohesive story that honors player choices while setting Ciri up as the protagonist.
Ciri’s journey in The Witcher 4 promises to expand her character arc and explore her evolution as a Witcher. Whether she embraces her Elder Blood powers, suppresses them, or undergoes significant transformation, one thing is certain: her return will be an unforgettable adventure. How do you think the makers will tie the endings together? Share your theories in the comments below!