“Kaer Trolde is the main fortress on the isle of Ard Skellig. For centuries it has been the an Craites’ seat and jarl Crach an Craite’s pride and joy. Partly carved from the solid rock of the isle’s highest mountain, it makes a strong impression on all who behold it. Legend has it it was built by Grymmdjarr Iron Fang, son of Hemdall and Heulyn, founder of Clan an Craite. Grymmdjarr wanted a way to watch over all of Skellige to ensure no harm would come to his brothers, rulers of the other islands. So he wrapped heavy chains around a mountain resting on the sea floor, pulled it to the surface and placed it on the island of Ard Skellig. In seven days he carved out of it an impregnable fortress whose lofty towers afford a view of all the archipelago.”

-In Game Map Description

Far west, off the shores of Temeria lies a large group of islands called Skellige. These nordic, viking like people who live on these islands live off of the ship wrecks that wash up onto there islands shores. The largest island in Skellige is called Ard Skellige, this is the home of Skelliges largest cities and fortresses, Kaer Trolde.

This long lived castle nested in a massive cliff edge has stood as the home for Skellige most fearsome tribe. Other tribes live on the main island but none are as large and dominant as the Kaer Trolde Clan. There king, Bran who led his clan with an iron fist; Passes away as you first land into this town. People are heart broken but more so affriad of the Black Ones’ invasion that is imminent.

Skellige Ilse

The conflicts between tribes have been common over the centuries, however each civilization of people on this island all have the same values. They worship the land, and believe that the gods gift them with plentiful food and hunt. It is because of this that they fight for there honor, and to please the gods that gift them with life.

Your time on Skellige is long, and drawn out, but this is the location for the conclusion of the games story, and is a large place holder for after – game events. Personally, Skellige was my favorite area in the Wither 3, due to its vicious monsters and rugged landscapes.

“Once part of Redania, Novigrad now has the status of a free city. It is the world’s largest city and, without a doubt, the richest as well. Cradle of the cult of the Eternal Fire, it is now home to the church of the same name. It is ruled officially by the head of the church, referred to as the hierarch, though its underworld crime bosses also have a great deal of say in matters.”

-Map Description (in-game)

Novigrad is a special place in this game, 1/3 of the story take place in this one city, and thousands of NPC’s and side quests roam the streets of this absolutely massive city. This is the second main area in the game that you journey to, coming directly out of the harsh, baron swamp lands of Velen; Novigrad is a sight for sore eyes, and also a vastly different experience of a video game.

Novigrad is composed of a few major parts inside the cities boundaries, the most northern tip, Temple Isle is the home of the cities leader, and also the richest district in the city, whilst the far eastern end is called, The Bits- are the slums, and least wealthy area in the city. Harborside and Farcorners make up the ocean-side, and southern parts of the city.

I will admit, personally i have never played a game with such an incredible place. When critics say that this city is alive, they mean it. The sounds and sights of the city are never ending. Small things change the city around you and you as the player can completely choose how you change this city, from the people who rule this city, to the underground illegal markets, to million dollar heists. You can do it all in this city and it is my favorite area ever in a video game.

Novigrad is the largest city in this game but it is not the last. A major plot point occurs in this culture capitol of the world, however it will only lead you, the player into even more crazy adventures.

(Video Tour of Novigrad City In Game) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34SvvSIkRjk