Reason of State (Optional)

Understand the impactful 'Reason of State' optional quest in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This guide details choices that shape the Northern Realms and the game's.

The "Reason of State" quest in The Witcher 3 is a crucial, optional quest that significantly impacts the political landscape of the Northern Realms. Undertaking this quest involves making difficult choices that will determine the fate of key characters and factions, ultimately influencing the game's ending.

Starting the Quest

The "Reason of State" quest is initiated during Act 3, specifically after completing the main quest "Battle Preparations – Part 2." To begin, you must have previously allied with either Emhyr var Emreis (the Emperor of Nilfgaard) or Roche and Ves (loyalists to the Temerian throne). The quest becomes available when you speak with Vernon Roche at the Kingfisher Inn in Novigrad.

Key Decisions and Consequences

This quest is heavily choice-driven, and your decisions will have far-reaching consequences:

• The Nilfgaardian Alliance: If you have maintained a good relationship with Emperor Emhyr and have completed certain prerequisite quests (like "A Deadly Plot"), you will have the option to meet with him. This meeting is crucial for understanding the political machinations at play.
• The Conspiracy: The core of the quest involves uncovering and dealing with a conspiracy against Nilfgaard. You will need to make a critical decision regarding the fate of key figures involved in this plot.
• Roche and Ves's Fate: Your choices will directly influence whether Vernon Roche and Ves survive the events of the game. Supporting them or prioritizing Nilfgaardian interests will lead to different outcomes for these beloved characters.
• The Fate of the Northern Realms: The ultimate outcome of "Reason of State" can significantly alter the political balance of power in the Northern Realms, impacting which faction ultimately holds sway.

Walkthrough Highlights

The quest typically involves several stages:

1. Meeting with Roche: Begin by speaking with Vernon Roche in Novigrad. He will inform you of the situation and the need for your intervention.
2. Gathering Information: You may need to gather intelligence or speak with other characters to understand the full scope of the conspiracy. This could involve visiting specific locations or interrogating individuals.
3. Confrontation and Decision: The quest culminates in a critical confrontation where you must make a definitive choice. This choice will determine the immediate aftermath and the long-term consequences for the characters and the world.
4. Potential Combat: Depending on your choices, you may find yourself in combat scenarios. Be prepared for challenging fights, especially if you choose to oppose powerful factions.

Tips for Success

• Prioritize Your Alliances: Remember who you have allied with throughout the game. Your past decisions will heavily influence the options available to you in "Reason of State."
• Pay Attention to Dialogue: The dialogue in this quest is rich with political intrigue. Listen carefully to what characters say, as it will provide clues to the best course of action.
• Save Frequently: Given the significant impact of your choices, it's wise to save your game before making major decisions within this quest.
• Consider the Endings: If you are aiming for a specific game ending, research how "Reason of State" contributes to those outcomes.

Successfully navigating "Reason of State" requires careful consideration of your loyalties and a willingness to make difficult choices that will shape the future of the Continent.