The Witcher 4: Including Home Bases from the Start

In the realm of modern video games, downloadable content (DLC) has become a common addition to enhance gameplay experiences, particularly in AAA single-player titles. While substantial DLC expansions like The Witcher 3’s “Blood and Wine” are generally well-received for adding value, some features, like home bases, should ideally be integral parts of the base game rather than locked behind additional purchases.

A home base serves as a pivotal feature in RPGs, offering customization options, mechanical benefits, and a gathering place for significant character interactions. In The Witcher 3, the estate of Corvo Bianco introduced in “Blood and Wine” provided Geralt with a customizable hub that reflected his journey and choices. However, gating such a fundamental feature behind DLC is not necessary, as seen with Cyberpunk 2077’s inclusion of apartments in its base game.

For The Witcher 4, a home base akin to Corvo Bianco could be seamlessly integrated into the core experience. Unlike Kaer Morhen, which serves as a remote fortress unsuitable for extensive upgrades, a location like Corvo Bianco offers a central, accessible base perfect for a roaming Witcher. This home base could evolve alongside the player character throughout the game, offering functionalities such as storage, crafting upgrades, and displays for armor and collectibles.

Implementing Home Base Features in The Witcher 4

Witchers traditionally traverse the Continent, returning to their schools sporadically, making a permanent home base essential. Such a feature not only supports gameplay mechanics but also enriches the narrative by providing a grounded location amidst expansive travels. The Witcher 4 could expand on Corvo Bianco’s concept, allowing players to progressively enhance and personalize their base as they advance through the storyline.

Including a home base from the outset encourages immersion and player engagement. It can serve as a hub for managing resources, planning quests, and interacting with NPCs, much like other successful RPGs have integrated such features seamlessly into their core gameplay experiences.

Visualizing the Role of Home Bases in The Witcher 4

In The Witcher 4, despite extensive travel across vast landscapes, a well-implemented fast travel system could make frequent returns to the protagonist’s home base feasible and convenient. Drawing inspiration from Corvo Bianco’s model, The Witcher 4 could introduce additional improvements and functionalities over time, mirroring the player’s progression through the campaign.

Furthermore, allies and characters from Geralt’s journey could visit or even take up residence at the base, enriching the narrative with dynamic interactions and potential quest opportunities. Such integration not only enhances gameplay depth but also reinforces the continuity of the protagonist’s journey and relationships throughout the game.

In conclusion, integrating a home base like Corvo Bianco into The Witcher 4’s base game would elevate the player experience by providing a central, customizable hub that grows alongside the character. By incorporating this feature from the start, CD Projekt RED can enhance immersion and deliver a richer, more cohesive RPG experience in the next installment of The Witcher series.