Witcher 3 console commands let you add items, gold, levels, and even change the weather or time of day on PC. You enable the developer console with a simple ini file edit, then type commands during gameplay to get exactly what you need, whether it’s a rare sword or a quick save. This article explains how to activate the console, lists the most useful commands, and covers common problems players run into.
How to Enable the Console on PC
The console is hidden by default in the PC version of Witcher 3. You have to edit a config file:
- Navigate to
Documents\The Witcher 3(orDocuments\Witcher 3on some versions). - Open the file
input.settingswith Notepad or any text editor. - Find the line
[Exploration](or add it if missing). - Add this line:
IK_5=(Action=OpenConsole)– this binds the console to the ` key (tilde). - Save the file and close it.
- Launch the game. Press the tilde key (~) during gameplay to open the console.
If you use the GOG version, the process is identical. The Steam version also works the same way. Some players report that the console doesn’t open if the game is running in fullscreen borderless mode – switch to fullscreen or windowed if that happens.
Essential Commands List
Here are the most commonly used console commands, verified to work in the current version of the game (including the next-gen update):
addmoney(amount)– adds the specified amount of gold (e.g.,addmoney(5000)).additem('item_id', quantity)– adds an item by its ID. For example,additem('gwint_skellige_storm', 1).setlevel(level)– sets Geralt’s level directly (e.g.,setlevel(35)).addexp(amount)– adds experience points toward the next level.settime(hour)– sets the time of day (0-24).setweather(preset)– changes weather (0=clear, 1=rain, 2=storm, 3=snow).godmode()– toggles invincibility (no damage).spawn(entity_id)– spawns a creature or NPC (e.g.,spawn('wolf')).cleardevelop()– removes all debug flags, useful after messing with console.showallpins()– reveals all map markers.
For item IDs, you can find full lists online (e.g., on the Witcher wiki). The IDs are case-sensitive, so type them exactly.
Common Problems and Fixes
Players often run into a few issues when using console commands:
- Console doesn’t open: Make sure you added the line to the correct
input.settingsfile. Some users edit the file in the game directory, but the correct one is in Documents. Also, check that the game is not in borderless fullscreen. - Command not working: Check for typos. Commands are case-sensitive, and item IDs must be exact. Also, some commands require you to be in a specific context (e.g.,
spawnonly works outdoors). - Game crashes after using console: Certain commands (like
spawnwith a wrong ID) can cause crashes. Reload a save before the crash, and avoid using unknown entity IDs. - Console opens but typing doesn’t show: This can happen if the game’s input language is not set to English. Switch your keyboard layout to English.
If you’ve used setlevel and your skills are messed up, you can use setlevel again to adjust, or use cleardevelop() to reset debug flags, but that won’t undo level changes.
How to Get Item IDs
Item IDs are alphanumeric strings that the game uses internally. You can find them on the Witcher 3 wiki or fan sites. The IDs are not always intuitive – for example, the ID for the sword “Aerondight” is aerondight, but for many items it’s a mix like gwint_skellige_storm for a Gwent card.
To make it easier, you can use a mod like “Console Commands” that adds a search function, but that requires installing mods. The base game’s console only accepts exact IDs.
Is Using Console Commands Safe?
Using console commands is generally safe for your save file, but there are a few caveats:
- It may disable achievements on some platforms (Steam, GOG). The game doesn’t explicitly disable them, but using commands that alter the game state may flag your save.
- Overusing
addmoneyorsetlevelcan trivialize the game, making it less enjoyable. - Some commands, like
spawn, can spawn enemies that are too powerful and break your game – save before experimenting. - Never use console commands while in a cutscene or dialogue; it can cause softlocks.
If you’re worried about achievements, back up your save file before using the console. The game saves are in Documents\The Witcher 3\gamesaves.
Alternatives to Console Commands
If you don’t want to edit files or type commands, consider these alternatives:
- Mods: The Witcher 3 has a large modding community. Mods like “Debug Console Enabler” or “God Mode” can be installed via Nexus Mods and often provide a GUI for the same functions.
- Cheat Engine: A third-party tool that can modify memory values (like gold) but is more complex and risky.
- New Game Plus: If you want to replay with high stats, NG+ carries over your level and items.
For most players, console commands are the simplest and safest method.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I open the console in Witcher 3?
After editing input.settings as described, press the tilde key (~) during gameplay. If it doesn’t work, check your keyboard layout and try switching to fullscreen mode.
Can I use console commands on PS4 or Xbox?
No, console commands are PC-only. The console is a debug feature that was removed from console versions.
Will using console commands get me banned?
No, Witcher 3 is a single-player game. There’s no anti-cheat, and CD Projekt Red doesn’t ban players for using console commands.
What’s the command to add money?
Type addmoney(1000) to add 1000 gold. You can use any number.
How do I change the weather?
Use setweather(0) for clear, setweather(1) for rain, setweather(2) for storm, and setweather(3) for snow.
Does using console commands disable achievements?
It may, but not always. To be safe, back up your save before using commands if achievements matter to you.
Related
Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.
More cards in this drawer
- Campus Tech Innovation Hubs: What They Are
- Poco C51 Airtel Prepaid Locked Variant India?
- Jenkins vs GitHub Actions: Which CI/CD Fits Your Team?
- Turn Off Backup Encryption in iTunes?
- Shared VPS Hosting: Is It Better?
- Disk Defrag Pro: What It Does and Whether You Need It