The Griffin (again) — The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Walkthrough

Master the Griffin boss fight in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Learn effective strategies using ss, bombs, and Thunderbolt potions to exploit its weaknesses.

The Griffin, a formidable beast, returns as a boss encounter in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This guide details how to prepare for and defeat this aerial menace, offering strategies for its attack patterns and weaknesses. Learn how to effectively use ss, bombs, and potions to overcome this challenging foe.

The Griffin is a recurring threat in The Witcher 3, and while you may have encountered it earlier, this particular encounter often serves as a more significant challenge, especially if you've been neglecting your preparation. This guide will focus on the strategies needed to overcome this powerful monster.

Preparing for the Fight

Before you even think about confronting the Griffin, proper preparation is key. Ensure you have:

• Potions: Swallow (health regeneration), Thunderbolt (attack power), and Tawny Owl (stamina regeneration) are highly recommended. Consider a Blizzard potion for slowing down time during critical moments.
• Oils: Apply Hybrid Oil to your silver sword. This significantly increases your damage against griffins.
• Bombs: Grapeshot or Dancing Star can be useful for staggering the Griffin when it's on the ground or to disrupt its aerial attacks.
• Armor and Weapons: Ensure your gear is repaired and, if possible, upgraded. A good silver sword is essential.
• Skills: Invest in skills that enhance your ss, particularly Quen for defense and i for dealing damage, or Aard for staggering.

The Griffin's Attack Patterns and Weaknesses

The Griffin is a swift and dangerous opponent, capable of both aerial and ground assaults. Its primary attacks include:

• Dive Bomb: The Griffin will ascend and then dive rapidly towards you. Dodge to the side as it approaches.
• Wing Buffet: A sweeping attack with its wings that can knock you back. Keep your distance or block/parry if you're confident in your timing.
• Claw Swipes: When on the ground, it will use its powerful claws. These are often telegraphed, allowing for dodges.
• Screech: A sonic attack that can disorient you.

The Griffin is vulnerable to:

• Aard S: Can stagger the Griffin, interrupting its attacks and creating openings.
• i S: Can deal damage over time and potentially interrupt its flight.
• Bombs: Can knock it out of the air.
• Silver Sword: Its primary weakness.

Combat Strategy

The fight can be divided into two phases: aerial and ground combat.

Aerial Phase:

When the Griffin is airborne, your primary goal is to bring it down. Use your crossbow to chip away at its health, but don't rely on it for significant damage. The best way to ground it is by using the Aard s when it swoops down or by hitting it with a well-timed bomb. Once it's on the ground, switch to your silver sword.

Ground Phase:

On the ground, the Griffin is more predictable. Focus on dodging its attacks and striking when you see an opening. A common strategy is to hit it with 1-2 quick attacks and then dodge away to avoid its counter-attack. Reapply Hybrid Oil if it wears off. Use i to deal damage and Quen to absorb hits if you make a mistake. If you have the opportunity, use Aard to stagger it and unleash a flurry of attacks.

Tips for Success

• Patience is Key: Don't get greedy with your attacks. It's better to land a few safe hits than to risk taking heavy damage.
• Stamina Management: Keep an eye on your stamina, especially when using ss.
• Environmental Awareness: Use the terrain to your advantage, but be mindful of obstacles that might hinder your dodges.
• Heal Wisely: Only use Swallow when you have a safe window to do so.

By following these strategies and preparing adequately, you'll be well-equipped to defeat the Griffin and continue your journey through The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.