Skip to content
Exploiting Enemy Weaknesses with Signs and Oils
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Exploiting Enemy Weaknesses with Signs and Oils

Master The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt by learning to exploit enemy weaknesses. Discover how Signs, Oils, and Alchemy can give you the edge in combat against monsters and humans.

By ···10 min read·Multi-source verified
1 reading this guide  

Master The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt by learning to exploit enemy weaknesses. Discover how Signs, Oils, and Alchemy can give you the edge in combat against monsters and humans.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    Understand Enemy Types: Each enemy in The Witcher 3 has specific weaknesses. Geralt's bestiary details these, including vulnerabilities to certain Signs, oils, or bombs.
  2. 2
    Prepare Oils: Before engaging a monster or group of enemies, check the bestiary for their weaknesses. Apply the corresponding oil to Geralt's silver sword (for monsters) or steel sword (for humans) to significantly increase damage dealt. Oils are crafted using alchemy recipes and require specific ingredients. Once crafted, they can be replenished by meditating with sufficient alcohol.
  3. 3
    Utilize Signs: Geralt's magical Signs are essential for exploiting weaknesses. For example:
    • Aard: Effective against enemies vulnerable to force or knockdowns.
  4. 4
    Axii: Useful for stunning or influencing enemies, particularly humans and beasts.
  5. 5
    Igni: Excellent against enemies weak to fire, causing damage over time.
  6. 6
    Quen: Provides a defensive barrier, useful when facing overwhelming odds or powerful attacks.
  7. 7
    Yrden: Creates a trap that can slow enemies or affect spectral beings.
  8. 8
    Craft and Use Bombs: Bombs offer various tactical advantages. Some are effective against specific enemy types (e.g., Grapeshot against groups, Dancing Star against flammable enemies), while others have unique effects like blinding or freezing. Craft bombs using alchemy recipes and ingredients.
  9. 9
    Combine Strategies: The most effective way to exploit weaknesses is to combine these elements. For instance, use Yrden to trap a monster, apply the correct oil to your sword, and then use Igni to set it ablaze while it's vulnerable.
Tips
  • Always check the Bestiary before a fight to identify enemy weaknesses and prepare accordingly.
  • Keep a stock of common oils and bomb ingredients to craft on the go.
  • Upgrade your Signs and Alchemy skills to maximize their effectiveness.
  • Experiment with different Sign and Oil combinations to find what works best for your playstyle and the specific enemy you're facing.
  • Don't underestimate the power of preparation; a few moments spent applying oils and selecting the right Signs can make a difficult fight much easier.

100% Human-Written. AI Fact-Checked. Community Verified. Learn how AntMag verifies content