The Witcher fans have long pondered the peculiar tradition of Geralt naming every horse he owns "Roach". This curiosity has finally been satiated, courtesy of the latest installment in The Witcher book series, Crossroads of Ravens, originally published in Polish in 2024 and recently translated into English. The revelation comes not from the games, which have dominated the franchise's popularity, but from author Andrzej Sapkowski's newest literary addition, reviewed by PC Gamer's Jody Macgregor.
Crossroads of Ravens is uniquely positioned as the earliest chronologically in The Witcher series, tracing a young Geralt's initial forays into the life of a Witcher, set against the backdrop of the Kingdom of Kaedwen. Beyond its monster-slaying narratives, the novel delves into the prejudices faced by Witchers and the human implications of their mutations. A notable encounter within the book provides the key to understanding the "Roach" enigma. Readers are advised of minor spoilers ahead.
About the Revelation in Crossroads of Ravens
The pivotal moment occurs when Geralt, after slaying a mamutak (a giant, ostrich-like bird monster) to protect crayfish fishermen by a river, finds his horse stolen. Directed to a local horse breeder by the ungrateful burgomeister, Geralt faces the breeder's disdain for his choice of a mare over a stallion, deemed more "honorable" for a Witcher. The breeder likens his horses to fish, jokingly referring to Geralt's chosen mare as "a little roach," a comment that amuses Geralt and inspires his future naming convention.
This lighthearted exchange, detailed in the novel, explains Geralt's consistent choice of "Roach" for his mounts, a decision rooted in the breeder's unintended humor. The novel's ability to influence the broader understanding of The Witcher lore, even after the games' dominance, underscores the literary foundation's enduring impact on the franchise.
Implications for The Witcher Franchise
The revelation in Crossroads of Ravens highlights the depth and continuity of The Witcher's narrative universe, where even seemingly trivial details like the naming of Geralt's horses are meticulously thought out and rooted in character interactions. For fans of the video games, this provides a richer understanding of Geralt's personality and the world's lore, demonstrating how the books remain a vital part of the franchise's ecosystem.
Given the games' prevalence, it's notable that this significant lore drop originates from the literary series, encouraging fans who might have overlooked the books to delve into them. For those intimidated by the series' length or complexity, a reading guide is available to facilitate entry into the world of The Witcher beyond the digital realm.
What This Means for Fans
The solving of the "Roach" mystery through Crossroads of Ravens is a testament to the interconnectedness of The Witcher's media forms. Whether a longtime reader, a gamer, or both, this insight enriches the fan's experience, offering a deeper appreciation for the character of Geralt and the meticulous world-building by Andrzej Sapkowski. As the franchise continues to evolve across platforms, discoveries like these remind us of the literary heart that beats at its core.
For those looking to explore more of The Witcher's lore, Crossroads of Ravens not only answers long-held questions but also poses new ones, inviting a fresh exploration of the series' beginnings. With its unique place in the chronology and engaging narrative, the novel is a must-read for any serious fan of the franchise.