Aedirn

Melee Combat: Geralt uses a Silver Sword for monsters and a Steel Sword for humanoids. Basic attacks are fast/light and heavy. Advanced abilities like Whirl and Rend can be unlocked via the Combat Skill Tree.

Ranged Combat: The crossbow offers ranged attacks with time slowing slightly during aim. Different bolts can be crafted. Marksmanship skills can enhance aiming, critical damage, and enemy ability disabling.

Finisher Attacks: A button prompt appears when an enemy is weakened, triggering a stylish execution. Automatic finishers can be toggled on/off in the menu.

Avoiding Attacks: Geralt can Block (nullifies most melee, less effective against magic/elemental damage), Stagger (timing block before an attack deflects and stuns), Dodge (quick side/back step to evade), and Roll (covers more distance, useful against large bosses). Defensive skills can be unlocked in the Combat Skill Tree, including Deflect Arrows.

Magical Signs: Consumes Stamina. All five signs are available early, with upgrades in the Sign Skill Tree.

• AARD: Force push to knock down/stagger enemies; can break weak walls.

AXII: Temporarily stuns human/monster/beast enemies; used in dialogue and to calm animals.

IGNI: Fire wave for damage, chance to ignite enemies; used out of combat to light torches.

QUEN: Creates a protective barrier, drains Stamina.

YRDEN: Creates a ground trap that slows enemies and makes spectral creatures vulnerable.

Alchemy: Geralt can craft potions, oils, and bombs using reagents. Recipes are bought, found, or rewarded. Once crafted, they auto-replenish upon meditation if alcohol is available.

• Bombs: Various types with different effects.