How to Use The Witcher Calculator
Whether you're a newcomer to The Witcher universe or a returning fan wanting to re-experience the saga, this calculator helps you plan your journey through the books and games. Simply input your reading speed, gaming habits, and select which content you want to experience, and we'll estimate how long your adventure will take.
Setting Your Parameters
- Reading Speed: Select from slow (150 wpm), average (250 wpm), fast (350 wpm), or speed reader (450 wpm). If unsure, most adults read at around 250 words per minute.
- Daily Reading Time: How many hours per day you plan to dedicate to reading.
- Playing Style: Choose whether you'll rush through the main story, do some side content, or aim for 100% completion.
- Daily Gaming Time: Your typical gaming session length.
I Want to Read and Play in the Best Possible Order!
The Witcher saga has a specific narrative order that provides the best experience. Here's the recommended sequence:
1. The Last Wish (short stories) - Introduction to Geralt
2. Sword of Destiny (short stories) - Meets Ciri
3. Blood of Elves (novel) - The main saga begins
4. Time of Contempt (novel)
5. Baptism of Fire (novel)
6. The Tower of Swallows (novel)
7. Lady of the Lake (novel) - Saga conclusion
8. Season of Storms (standalone) - Optional prequel
9. The Witcher 1 (game)
10. The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (game)
11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (game)
12. The Witcher 3: Hearts of Stone (DLC)
13. The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine (DLC)
The Witcher Books Overview
Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher series began as short stories published in Polish science fiction magazines in the 1980s. The series has grown to include eight books, translated into over 20 languages.
| Book | Type | Year | Word Count (approx) | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Last Wish | Short Stories | 1993 | ~84,000 | 288 |
| Sword of Destiny | Short Stories | 1992 | ~95,000 | 384 |
| Blood of Elves | Novel | 1994 | ~82,000 | 320 |
| Time of Contempt | Novel | 1995 | ~95,000 | 352 |
| Baptism of Fire | Novel | 1996 | ~98,000 | 343 |
| The Tower of Swallows | Novel | 1997 | ~140,000 | 464 |
| Lady of the Lake | Novel | 1999 | ~170,000 | 531 |
| Season of Storms | Standalone | 2013 | ~95,000 | 384 |
The Witcher Games Overview
CD Projekt Red's game trilogy continues the story after the books, taking place five years after the events of Lady of the Lake. The games are acclaimed for their storytelling, world-building, and player choice.
| Game | Year | Main Story | Main + Extras | Completionist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Witcher | 2007 | 36 hours | 52 hours | 76 hours |
| The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings | 2011 | 24 hours | 35 hours | 63 hours |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 2015 | 52 hours | 105 hours | 180 hours |
| Hearts of Stone (DLC) | 2015 | 10 hours | 15 hours | 21 hours |
| Blood and Wine (DLC) | 2016 | 18 hours | 30 hours | 46 hours |
From a Polish Cult Novel to a Worldwide Phenomenon
The Witcher began as entries in a short story contest in 1986. Andrzej Sapkowski's tale of Geralt of Rivia captured readers' imaginations with its subversive take on classic fairy tales and morally complex characters.
The series draws heavily from Slavic mythology while incorporating elements from Arthurian legend, Norse mythology, and classic fairy tales. What sets The Witcher apart is its deconstruction of fantasy tropes—the "monsters" are often more human than the humans, and fairy tales rarely end happily.
Cultural Impact
- Video Games: CD Projekt Red's trilogy has sold over 75 million copies combined, with The Witcher 3 winning over 250 Game of the Year awards.
- Netflix Series: The 2019 adaptation starring Henry Cavill brought the franchise to an even wider audience, becoming one of Netflix's most-watched series.
- Comic Books: Dark Horse Comics has published multiple Witcher comic series.
- Board Games: Several tabletop adaptations exist, including a critically acclaimed role-playing game.
Main Characters
Geralt of Rivia: The protagonist, a witcher (monster hunter) known for his silver hair, cat-like eyes, and moral code despite the world's cruelty.
Yennefer of Vengerberg: A powerful sorceress and Geralt's primary love interest, known for her fierce independence and violet eyes.
Cirilla (Ciri): Geralt's adopted daughter and child of destiny, possessing Elder Blood that grants her extraordinary powers.
Triss Merigold: A sorceress who aids Geralt throughout his adventures, playing a prominent role in the games.
Dandelion (Jaskier): A bard and Geralt's closest friend, whose songs spread tales of the witcher's adventures.
Tips for Your Witcher Journey
- Start with the short stories: They introduce characters and world-building essential for enjoying the novels.
- Don't skip the first game: While dated graphically, The Witcher 1 establishes important plot points referenced in later games.
- Take your time: The Witcher 3 especially rewards exploration and side quests with some of gaming's best storytelling.
- Consider the Enhanced Editions: Both Witcher 1 and 2 have enhanced editions with improved gameplay.
- Save Blood and Wine for last: This DLC serves as a beautiful conclusion to Geralt's gaming journey.