The Witcher 3 has more than one possible ending, although each ending changes depending on your other accomplishments and choices. This thread is meant to be a guide that allows players to reach the conclusion that they would prefer, while remaining as vague as possible with the exact details.
What this will vaguely spoil: Near the beginning of the game, you find out that you're looking for two women, and you're asked by a powerful character to bring one in particular to meet him. Once you've at least reached the part where you learn about this, the only main spoilers will be quest names--which are also thankfully vague--if you ever find one or both women, and if that powerful character is ever given the chance to meet them. You will also learn the names of your two primary romance options, when the point of no return is, and a rough idea of how much of the game is left at that point.
I thought this might be useful for those who haven't finished the game yet, because the determining factors that decide which ending you get are kind of subjective, and you could possibly pick too many of the wrong choices if you're not careful.
Spoiler text will go into more detail to make required choices a bit more clear, but will still attempt to not ruin the story. Still, I suggest only reading spoilers if you don't understand and require more detail.
At a certain point in the game, you will be prompted to save your game, and told that it's the point of no return. This is true, but only for certain quests and ending alterations. Choices made that affect which conclusion you eventually reach do not occur until shortly after the start of the quest "Blood on the Battlefield." It's important to note that at this point you will still have several more hours of gameplay until you reach the end, but save your game at the start of this quest just in case.
You'll be on a mountain and looking at a large fire.
From this point on, you will eventually make five choices that determine the ending of the game. All five choices have to do with the character Ciri, and she will be present for all of them.
#1 - In the quest "Blood on the Battlefield," Ciri should be cheered up, instead of being told not to worry.
After the battle, attempt to lift her spirits, instead of telling her that she doesn't have to be good at everything.
#2a - In the quest "Blood on the Battlefield," you're faced with a choice unlike the rest. There is arguably no strict "good" or "bad" choice here, only a personal preference. There's also no way to be vague about it, but it's something that has been talked about since the beginning of the game. Do you go directly to your destination, or do you take a detour?
If you view Geralt as Ciri's father figure, and the Emperor as someone who should be avoided, do not take Ciri to see the emperor. If you view the Emperor as Ciri's father, and believe that he should have a strong influence in her life, take Ciri to see the emperor.
#2b - If you do decide to go, remember that you brought Ciri there for her, not for you.
Do not take the reward.
#3 - In the quest "Final Preparations," Ciri doesn't need you to speak for her. Give her some space, and show that you have confidence in her.
Let Ciri speak to the sorceresses alone.
#4 - In the quest "Child of the Elder Blood," Ciri should be encouraged to vent her frustration, instead of being encouraged to remain calm.
Tell her "go for it," not "calm down."
#5 - In the quest "Child of the Elder Blood," Ciri should be allowed to mourn, instead of being told that there's no time.
Be sure to visit her friend's grave.
Other things to keep in mind:
Any and all secondary quests given to you by people Geralt seems to know should be completed as they are presented. Many of them determine your relationship with these characters, and what happens to them. Most are also as well-written and designed as the other major quests.
The only true side quests in the game are related to contracts, fistfights, horseraces, and random people saying "I heard you're a Witcher. Can you help me?"
The quest "Now or Never" should be completed immediately after it becomes available. Do not do any other quests until it's finished.
If you're interested in pursuing a romantic relationship, pick a love interest and stick with her. Just know that you can't keep your options open until the end.
During the quest "Last Wish," if you're in a relationship with Triss, you must breakup with Yennefer in order to remain in a relationship.
To pursue a relationship with Triss:
Kiss her when you have the chance, immediately help her with the "Now or Never" quest, and tell her that you love her during that quest.
To pursue a relationship with Yennefer:
Kiss her when you have the chance, and tell her that you love her during the quest "Last Wish."
If you want the dark / sad ending, do the opposite for the five decisions. Better yet, just look it up on You Tube after you finish the game with a good ending.
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