The age of Geralt of Rivia, the iconic Witcher, has been a long-standing mystery. While previous Witcher media offered vague hints, Andrzej Sapkowski’s latest book, Rozdroze krukow (Crossroads of Ravens), provides a definitive answer. This prequel, set in 1229, reveals Geralt to be a mere 18 years old. With the final book taking place in 1268, Geralt is only 57 at the series’ conclusion.
the-witcher-3.jpgAlt: Geralt of Rivia, depicted in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, appears much older than his confirmed age of 57. This discrepancy is explained by the Witcher mutations which affect aging.
While Geralt appears older, his Witcher mutations alter his aging process. His signature white hair results from mutagen exposure, not natural aging. Although physical age might seem trivial, this revelation adds significant context to the character and the Witcher universe.
Discrepancies Across Witcher Media
This revelation contrasts sharply with popular fan theories and other adaptations. Many assumed Geralt to be significantly older. The Netflix series, with its unique timeline, places Geralt around 108 years old by its final season. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt also implies an age near 100, although never explicitly stated.
The Impact on The Witcher 4
The impact of this revelation on The Witcher 4 remains unclear. The games’ canonicity has always been debated, and CD Projekt Red might disregard this new information. Furthermore, Ciri, not Geralt, takes center stage in the upcoming game. While Geralt’s presence is confirmed, his role remains uncertain. This shift to Ciri aligns with one of The Witcher 3‘s endings, offering a logical narrative progression.
Conclusion: Geralt’s Age and the Future of the Franchise
The confirmation of Geralt’s age provides intriguing new information for Witcher fans, even if it contradicts previous assumptions. While this detail might not drastically alter existing narratives, it adds depth to the character’s backstory. As the franchise continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this revelation influences future interpretations of Geralt of Rivia.
