Summary
Though it’s too soon to tell what level of impact it will have onThe Witcherseries and its fans,The Witcher 4is leaving Geralt behind as its main protagonist, although the iconic monster hunter will reportedly still be featured in the game to some extent. It’s currently unclear who will be replacing Geralt as the main protagonist inThe Witcher 4, and although Ciri is a popular candidate, even she may not inherit the role. Nevertheless, it might all be for the best in the end, especially with CD Projekt RED’s hopes to attract newcomers to the franchise rather than continue catering to its loyal fans.
In light of the news thatThe Witcher 4will be moving on without Geralt, it means that many of his longtime companions may be left in the dust as well. One of Geralt’s companions, however, is unlike any other; a companion who has remained at his side in one form or another and has shared a bond with him that none of his other friends, acquaintances, or lovers ever could. That companion is Roach - Geralt’s faithful steed, who has captivated with his lovable personality, hilarious glitches, and adorable relationship with his owner. With Geralt out of the picture inThe Witcher 4, this means Roach may be as well, and he will undoubtedly be a tough act to follow.
The Witcher 4 Will Have to Work Hard to Replace Roach
Roach Is One of Geralt’s Most Beloved Companions
While “Roach” is the name Geralt has given every one of his horses on account of his nomadic lifestyle and hesitancy to grow too attached, Roach is nonetheless a close and highly respected friend of the Witcher’s. This is realized in each horse’s persistent presence, as they agreeably show up whenever they are called upon to provide Geralt with a mount to ride or a friend to confide in. In a sense, Roach is more than a mere mount, asGeralt’s usual relational wallsare no match for the horse, who can stride right through them with ease.
With the exception of perhaps Yennefer and maybe one or two others, Roach is one of the few companions Geralt frequently opens up to. However,Geralt’s attachment to Roachis clearly evidenced in the fact that he calls all of his horses by the same name, as if to maintain the same connection with each one. Additionally, unlike many of the Witcher’s other companions, Roach is able to penetrate Geralt’s impassivity by providing an opportunity for him to express himself without any judgment.
Ultimately, this results in Roach being far more than a tool of transportation and, instead, an invaluable friend not readily parted with.
Roach has also appealed to fans ofThe Witcher, but not merely on account of his inherent qualities. InThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, occasional glitcheshave caused Roach to randomly appear in rather bizarre locations, like rooftops and rivers, or to appear in unusual positions. Somehow, these bugs have avoided universal criticism and instead have inspired countless endearing memes, thereby adding to Roach’s quirky personality and making him a more beloved companion in theWitcheruniverse.
The Witcher 4’s Protagonist Needs Their Own Roach
All things considered,The Witcher 4’s protagonist, whoever it may be, clearly needs its own Roach. Unfortunately, topping the iconic companion may be a tall order. On the one hand, CD Projekt RED may feel inclined to keep Roach’s legacy inThe Witcher 4, especially if Ciri truly is the game’s protagonist. This would not only see Geralt’s mantle effectively picked up by the next protagonist, but it would also keep Roach in the game. However, it might be even better to feature an altogether different Roach-like companion inThe Witcher 4, as it would complement CD Projekt RED’s goal to make the next game more of a soft reboot than anything else, but time will eventually tell all.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
WHERE TO PLAY
You are Geralt of Rivia, mercenary monster slayer. Before you stands a war-torn, monster-infested continent you can explore at will. Your current contract? Tracking down Ciri — the Child of Prophecy, a living weapon that can alter the shape of the world.PLAY AS A HIGHLY TRAINED MONSTER SLAYER FOR HIRETrained from early childhood and mutated to gain superhuman skills, strength, and reflexes, witchers are a counterbalance to the monster-infested world in which they live.Gruesomely destroy foes as a professional monster hunter armed with a range of upgradeable weapons, mutating potions, and combat magic. Hunt down a wide variety of exotic monsters, from savage beasts prowling mountain passes to cunning supernatural predators lurking in the shadowy back alleys of densely populated cities. Invest your rewards to upgrade your weaponry and buy custom armor, or spend them on horse races, card games, fist fighting, and other pleasures life brings.EXPLORE A MORALLY AMBIGUOUS FANTASY OPEN WORLDBuilt for endless adventure, the massive open world of The Witcher sets new standards in terms of size, depth, and complexity. Traverse a fantastical open world: explore forgotten ruins, caves, and shipwrecks, trade with merchants and dwarven smiths in cities, and hunt across the open plains, mountains, and seas. Deal with treasonous generals, devious witches, and corrupt royalty to provide dark and dangerous services. Make choices that go beyond good & evil, and face their far-reaching consequences.
