With the highly anticipated announcement of The Witcher 4 during The Game Awards 2024, and the confirmation that Ciri will take center stage as the protagonist, excitement is building around the potential cast of characters that players may encounter. Not only will players have the chance to embark on a new adventure filled with monster-slaying and exploration, but they might also reunite with beloved characters from previous installments in the series. The pivotal question remains: who will join Ciri on this new journey?
Emhyr Returns to Challenge Ciri
A Royal Challenge
Depending on the choices made in previous titles, Emhyr can either be overthrown or continue ruling as the emperor of Nilfgaard. If we follow the canonical storyline where he maintains his position, it sets the stage for potential conflicts, especially since Ciri is actually his daughter. Emhyr’s previous ambitions included bringing Ciri to Nilfgaard to secure her as his successor, especially highlighted in the empress ending of The Witcher 3.
As Ciri traverses the land as a Witcher, her activities could draw the attention of Nilfgaard, putting her on Emhyr’s radar and revealing that she is, in fact, alive.
If we assume Ciri follows the Witcher ending, it suggests that Geralt informed Emhyr of Ciri’s death during her selfless sacrifice to combat the White Frost. Thus, her re-emergence could inspire Emhyr to pursue her once more, aiming to legitimize her as his heir.
Avallac’h as Ciri’s Mentor
A Fateful Connection
Avallac’h played a crucial role in Ciri’s life, serving as a mentor and companion during their journeys across dimensions. He uniquely shares her ability to travel through different realms, fostering a strong bond with her. Ciri has often expressed her trust in Avallac’h, crediting him with saving her life multiple times.
Although Avallac’h’s fate was left uncertain, he might still appear in flashbacks, given his significance in Ciri’s life. Whether in memory or spirit, his reappearance could greatly impact Ciri’s journey.
The An Craite Siblings Join the Journey
Champions from the North
Cerys and Hjalmar an Craite represent strong leaders in Skellige, with the potential to ascend to the throne. As capable warriors, they could serve as formidable allies for Ciri, particularly if her journey takes her beyond familiar shores.
While Ciri possesses extraordinary abilities as a Witcher, having allies can significantly enhance her strength. As she encounters various challenges, assistance from the an Craite siblings could prove invaluable, whether during fierce battles or simply as friends along the way.
Ciri Needs Her Companion
The Bard’s Companion
Roach, Geralt’s beloved horse, has become iconic, accompanying him on perilous quests. The notion that Geralt names every horse he rides Roach adds a light-hearted facet to his character, showcasing his soft side as Ciri’s caretaker.
In her own adventures, Ciri will need a reliable steed. Whether she chooses to honor Geralt by adopting the name Roach or opts for a unique name is yet to be seen. Regardless, her horse may bring its own quirks, much like Roach’s propensity to find unusual places to stand!
Dandelion Offers His Support
The Bard’s Knowledge
Dandelion, the charismatic bard, is known for his charm and artistic talent rather than combat prowess. He is a close friend of Geralt and, despite their occasional tensions, may pop up in The Witcher 4.
With a background in academia, Dandelion could offer Ciri strategic information and insights. His tavern serves as a hub for gathering tales and rumors that could aid her in her exploits. Ciri might find herself visiting Dandelion to seek guidance or share in a light-hearted moment.
Fringilla’s Ambiguous Allegiances
A Quest for Redemption
Fringilla, a multifaceted character, was a sorceress in the service of Nilfgaard but faced imprisonment under Emhyr for her ties to the Lodge of Sorceresses. Despite any grievances she may hold, her relationship with Emhyr and Ciri could open several intriguing narrative possibilities in The Witcher 4.
Her past might lead her to seek revenge against Emhyr while assisting Ciri evade the empire’s watchful eye. Alternatively, her debt to Yennefer for saving her life could compel her to assist Ciri as a loyal ally.
Philippa Eilhart’s Influence
The Lodge’s Ambitions
Philippa is a force within the political sphere, intent on reshaping the Lodge of Sorceresses with Ciri playing a central role in her vision. Despite Ciri’s commitment to being a Witcher, her unparalleled magical potential makes her a coveted asset.
If Philippa makes an appearance, she could serve as an advisor to Ciri, leveraging her significant political clout. The presence of the Lodge, given Ciri’s ties, seems inevitable as the game unfolds.
Triss’s Bond with Ciri
An Affectionate Connection
Triss Merigold serves as both an influential sorceress and a close ally to Geralt, fostering a sisterly bond with Ciri. Given her involvement with the Lodge, Triss is likely to make an appearance, though her role may vary based on how actively the Lodge interacts with Ciri.
Beyond her magical abilities, Triss’s connections within the political arena could prove invaluable to Ciri, offering insights that may be crucial for navigating their complex world.
Yennefer’s Necessary Return
A Mother’s Love
As another prominent sorceress, Yennefer is intertwined in the narrative as Geralt’s love interest and Ciri’s adoptive mother. Her role becomes essential, particularly if the game solidifies a romantic arc for Geralt.
More than just a romantic figure, Yennefer plays a maternal role in Ciri’s life, making her absence in The Witcher 4 unlikely. With her formidable magical capabilities and political savvy, she could be a key ally as Ciri confronts ongoing challenges, especially those arising from societal bias against Witchers.
Geralt Is Set to Return
A Legacy of Mentorship
As Ciri’s adoptive father and mentor, Geralt’s inclusion in The Witcher 4 is confirmed. While he may not play a central role, the prospect of him teaming up with Ciri for hunts now that she is a fully-fledged Witcher is an exciting concept. After all, he has guided her into this lifestyle.
The challenge lies in determining which decisions from previous titles are deemed canon, particularly regarding Geralt’s relationships and choices like his romance path with Yennefer or the fate of the Nilfgaardian throne. Expectations suggest that major decisions, such as Emhyr’s status, will shape the narrative, while smaller choices may be bypassed for simplicity.
In the rich tapestry of The Witcher universe—from games to series to literature—there lies an abundance of lore and character depth that can expand indefinitely. While introducing new characters would be a challenge, Ciri’s established presence and character design make her the perfect focal point for The Witcher 4, generating considerable anticipation for her story ahead.
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