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Redefining the RPG Genre: An Epic Spellbinding Fantasy…

TL;DR
» As we enter 2023, The Witcher 3 is an experience that should not be missed and is undeniably one of the greatest games ever made. Even years after its release, the graphics still hold up remarkably well, and with the combination of its stunningly detailed environments, notable characters, and excellent story, this game continues to stand the test of time. If you have not added it to your Steam library yet, I strongly recommend doing so, especially for just $15 during the summer sale. Trust me, the value you will receive from this extraordinary game far exceeds its price.
» The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, without a doubt, deserves its place as one of the best RPG titles to have ever graced the gaming world. From its expansive open world to its legendary storytelling and outstanding gameplay, this game sets the bar impossibly high for what an RPG can achieve.

Environment

» Let’s begin with the world – a sprawling, living, and breathing wonder. Drawing its inspirations from Slavic mythology and taking place in what is known as the Continent, The Witcher 3 offers players a wide variety of environments to explore. Majestic mountains pierce the sky, their snow-capped peaks reaching toward the heavens. Dense forests, teeming with life and secrets, create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. War-torn villages in Velen bear the scars of conflict, their buildings, and inhabitants reflecting the hardships endured in a troubled world. Novigrad, a bustling city-state, pulsates with life and presents players with a vibrant urban landscape to navigate. Skellige, an archipelago of rugged islands, offers a breathtaking maritime setting with its own distinct culture and challenges. Finally, Toussaint in the Blood and Wine expansion presents players with a picturesque land of rolling hills, vineyards, and chivalric traditions. Every location within The Witcher 3 exudes a sense of realism and detail that is unmatched, making the world feel alive and tangible.
» Exploring this vast map is an adventure in itself, as players stumble upon hidden treasures, encounter fantastical creatures, and uncover unexpected stories. From the thriving towns to the remote and untamed wilderness, every corner of the environment offers a unique experience, inviting players to venture off the beaten path and discover the wonders and dangers that await.

Characters

» Central to this immersive world is Geralt of Rivia, the iconic protagonist and a character with immense depth. As a Witcher, a monster hunter with supernatural abilities, Geralt’s journey is an emotional rollercoaster filled with tough choices and moral dilemmas. Just like its predecessors, the voice acting and dialogues in The Witcher 3 bring Geralt to life, creating a believable and compelling hero whose struggles and achievements resonate with players on a profound level.
» The supporting cast, including Geralt’s allies, friends, and even foes, are also some of the most memorable and well-developed individuals, making them feel like real people with their own ambitions, fears, and desires. The return of existing characters such as Triss, Yennefer, Ciri, and Dandelion are utilized brilliantly from the source material, as they integrate themselves into the overall storyline from previous titles. Players are able to create meaningful connections and interact with these characters, and the relationships you forge and the choices you make have consequences that ripple throughout the game, leaving a lasting impact on both the narrative and the world around you.
» Apart from the main characters, the Witcher 3’s world is populated by a vast array of unique and engaging individuals. From kings and queens to peasants and merchants, every NPC feels distinct and contributes to the rich tapestry of the game’s universe. The attention to detail is further evident in the smaller interactions and conversations, which often provide glimpses into their lives, histories, and perspectives.

Main Story

» As for the narrative, brace yourself for a storytelling experience that is nothing short of epic. The Witcher 3 weaves together a tale of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and existential threats in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire journey. The main quest is engrossing and emotionally charged, filled with unexpected twists and turns that leave you questioning your own decisions and allegiances.
» But it is the game’s myriad of side quests and contracts that truly showcase its storytelling prowess. Each side quest feels like a mini adventure, with its own unique characters and narratives that often rival the main storyline in terms of quality and depth. This is backed by writing that is top-notch, tackling mature themes with nuance and never shying away from the complexities of the human condition.

DLCs

» After the initial questline, the Witcher 3 also includes two major expansions, offering a substantial amount of additional gameplay, quests, and memorable experiences. Without going into too much detail, Hearts of Stone, the first expansion, takes players on a dark and twisted adventure in a new region, where Geralt encounters a mysterious individual, leading him into a web of deceit and supernatural occurrences.
» On the other hand, Blood and Wine, the second expansion, takes players to a duchy, in a more picturesque region. This time Geralt finds himself embroiled in a dark secret plaguing the land, unraveling a thrilling vampire-hunting adventure. Both of these remarkable expansions not only provide new locations and quests but also enrich the world of The Witcher 3, effortlessly merging into the core experience and giving players a chance to delve deeper into the lore.

Gameplay

» Last, but certainly not least, regarding the gameplay itself, The Witcher 3 strikes a perfect balance between action and role-playing elements. The combat system, although a bit wonky at times, is smooth for the most part and requires strategic thinking, swordplay, and the use of Geralt’s magical signs. Engaging in battles with monstrous creatures and human foes proves to be a thrilling experience, requiring precise timing, tactics, and clever utilization of Geralt’s abilities. This makes the combat deep yet accessible, offering a satisfying challenge that rewards both skillful reflexes and thoughtful planning.
» Beyond combat, the game is brimming with activities and diversions. From crafting and alchemy, horseback races, to even Gwent, a card game that has become a phenomenon in its own right. The sheer amount of content and things to do is staggering, ensuring countless hours of entertainment without ever feeling repetitive or overwhelming.

Conclusion

» Overall, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt transcends the boundaries of its genre. Its rich, immersive world, combined with a cast of unforgettable characters, compelling storytelling, and refined gameplay are what make it a modern-day masterpiece. Special thanks to the developers over at CD Projekt Red, who have created a true work of art that will be celebrated and cherished by RPG enthusiasts like me for many years to come.

Score: 9.6/10

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