The arena faq states that it's separate from the main game. Does that mean no equipment or abilities carry through? I recently reinstalled Windows/The Witcher and so don't have my save games on my HDD and was wondering if my Level 1 Geralt and basic equipment are the defaults for the new game mode or if I should import my old saves which should be on my external HDD somewhere.

Ah, you gain levels and equipment as you beat fights. Got it.

Unfortunately, the low level fights when I didn't have counter unlocked/all my abilities were my least favourite parts of the game. I grew to love the combat, but only once I'd upgraded. Despite really looking forward to this, early level Arena has me resorting to the same tactic every fight - Aard enemies off the ledge. No cover to block archers, and way too many enemies thrown at you in a small space, with little means to deal with them, especially early on, makes this feel like a broken experience. Especially as the spawns are random (2 archers spawn at ledge = easy win. Spawn on either side of the arena = cheap death). Not enjoying it at all so far. Shame.

Loved the combat so much and thought this would be ideal for me. Guess not.