The Witcher 3 Alternate Nilfgaardian Armor Location And Appearance
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt received a major next-gen update that introduced several new cosmetic features inspired by the live-action Netflix adaptation. Among these additions is the alternate Nilfgaardian armor, which changes the visual design of the imperial soldiers encountered throughout the Northern Realms. Understanding how to locate, activate, and equip these cosmetic changes allows players to customize their gameplay experience according to their visual preferences.
How to Enable the Alternate Nilfgaardian Appearance
Unlike standard equipment sets that require finding crafting diagrams or completing specific quests, the alternate Nilfgaardian look is toggled through the game settings. Players must return to the main menu before loading a saved game, as these options cannot be adjusted from the in-game pause menu. From the title screen, navigate to the Gameplay options menu and scroll down to locate the toggle switch for the alternate Nilfgaardian appearance.
Once activated in the main menu, loading into any saved game will immediately apply the new visual style to Nilfgaardian soldiers and guards across the world. If players ever wish to return to the original armor design, they simply need to exit to the title menu and turn the setting off again. This straightforward system gives complete freedom over the game's visual aesthetic.
Distinct Appearance and Visual Style
The alternate Nilfgaardian armor features a distinctive crinkled, organic texture that directly reflects the design seen in Season 1 of the television show. This look replaces the smooth, polished black plates and gold accents of the base game's standard Nilfgaardian gear with a darker, rougher leather aesthetic. The helmets and chest plates have a sculpted, alien-like silhouette that starkly contrasts with traditional medieval armor.
While the design proved controversial among long-time fans of the series, it offers a unique visual shift for players looking to refresh their playthrough. Every standard Nilfgaardian guard, military officer, and soldier in key locations like Crow's Perch or Velen will reflect this modified appearance. The change is purely aesthetic and does not alter the combat capabilities or behavior of enemy NPCs.
Acquiring the Wearable Armor for Geralt
In addition to altering NPC appearances, players can obtain a physical set of Nilfgaardian armor for Geralt to wear during his journey. This set is available for purchase from the Quartermaster located at Crow's Perch in Velen. The wearable set includes the chest piece, gauntlets, trousers, boots, and matching horse equipment for Roach.
The wearable Nilfgaardian set provides excellent early-to-midgame defensive stats, offering solid protection against physical damage and elemental attacks. Equipping this gear also grants entry to restricted locations like the House of Respite in southern Velen. Toggling the main menu setting will also affect the appearance of certain equippable armor pieces found in the world.
Final Recommendations for Players
The alternate Nilfgaardian armor provides an entertaining way to experience The Witcher 3 with a novel aesthetic twist. Whether you prefer the classic dark metallic look or the dramatic televised design, toggling between options takes only a few simple steps. Exploring different outfits adds extra flair to Geralt's journey across the Continent.