In “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” one of the most memorable quests in the Hearts of Stone expansion is “Dead Man’s Party.” During this quest, Geralt, possessed by Vlodimir von Everec, attends a lively wedding where players can participate in various fun activities. One notable task is herding pigs into a pen, a seemingly simple yet challenging endeavor. Here’s a detailed guide on how to successfully complete this task and master the art of pig herding in “Dead Man’s Party.”
Initiating the Quest
To begin “Dead Man’s Party,” head to Shani’s clinic in Oxenfurt once the soldiers depart. Request her assistance, and she will agree to meet you outside the von Everec estate. Follow Shani to the manor, where she decides to stay above ground while Geralt heads into the crypt.
Preparing for the Crypt
- Apply Spectre Oil to your silver sword as you will encounter multiple Wraiths.
- Use Witcher Senses to locate Vlodimir von Everec’s body in the casket with the antique sabre.
- Equip Shani’s censer, navigate through the lower levels of the crypt, and fumigate the area until all rooms are covered in incense.
- Return to the votive fire pit and use Igni to light it up.
After awakening in Shani’s lap, leave the crypt and head to Brunwich for the wedding feast.
Wedding Feast Activities
Upon arriving at the wedding feast and changing into more suitable attire, you can enjoy several activities. These include introducing Vlodi-Geralt to the newlyweds, a Gwent game, pig herding, and more.
Herding Pigs: The Challenge
To participate in the pig herding challenge, approach the pig pen and accept the townsfolk’s challenge. The goal is to herd pigs marked with yellow paint into the stable on the other side of the mud pit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this:
Steps to Herd the Pigs
Herding pigs might seem simple, but it requires patience and strategy. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Step 1: Position yourself a small distance away from the pig until it stops moving.
- Step 2: Approach the pig from the sides to line it up with the pen.
- Step 3: Slowly approach the pig from behind and guide it into the pen.
Using Axii
If you find herding pigs challenging using the above steps, you can employ the Axii sign to make it easier:
- Hex the Pigs: Use Axii to hex the pigs, making them more manageable.
- Walk Them In: After hexing, walk into the pen, and the pigs will follow you right in.
However, note that using Axii will disqualify you from earning the King of the Swineherds trophy, which offers a 15% bonus in gold.
Patience is Key
The primary challenge in herding pigs lies in their tendency to panic and scatter. Maintain patience, calmly approach them, and repeat the steps if they deviate from the path. It might take several tries, but persistent effort will lead to success.
Additional Wedding Feast Activities
Once the pigs are safely in the pen, you can partake in other entertaining activities at the wedding:
Three Brave Brothers
After failing to impress the swinherds with Witcher abilities, Shani will prompt Vlodimir to prove his charm. Approach the woman she indicates, and prepare for a fistfight with her brothers. Use dodges and strategic counter-attacks to win the 3-on-1 battle using only a fence post.
A Short Game of Gwent
Join the dwarven party guests for a game of Gwent. Play carefully to avoid wearing a set of ass’s ears if you lose two games.
An Unwelcome Guest
Engage in a dance with Shani before being interrupted by Master Mirror. Resume the festivities after a brief discussion in the back room.
The Fire Eater
Help track down the missing fire eater by following his tracks with Witcher Senses. Use Axii to calm the performer and deal with a wild boar if it attacks. Ensure the fire eater returns to camp safely and join Shani and the children for the show.
Slip In for a Slipper
Participate in a couples game on the dock. Dive in to retrieve Shani’s shoe, and optionally, find two more maiden’s shoes. Return Shani’s shoe for a charming interaction.
The Capping
Complete all wedding activities as the clock strikes midnight, signaling the end of Vlodimir’s time in Geralt’s body. Make a speech at the feasting hall, enjoy the concluding festivities, and decide whether to stay at the feast with Shani or return to Olgeird at the Alchemy Inn.
Conclusion
“Dead Man’s Party” offers a blend of humor, challenge, and interactive fun. Herding pigs is a deceptively tricky task that requires patience and strategy but adds to the charm and immersive nature of The Witcher 3. Follow these steps, and you’ll become a master of pig herding while enjoying one of the most memorable quests in the game.
