Intro
If you’re anything like me, you’ve had your head entrenched in Baldur’s Gate 3 ever since you bought the game. This also means that you might be looking for games that are like BG3 to scratch the fantasy RPG itch.
One franchise that stands out in the category is none other than The Witcher 3. Apparently, it’s not uncommon for good fantasy video game series to come in threes (The Witcher 3, Baldur’s Gate 3, etc.). Released by CD Project Red back in 2015 the game still holds up as a strikingly entertaining staple of its genre all these years later.
The Witcher video games have grown to levels of popularity that have surpassed even the books that they are based on. This fantasy RPG has been known by gamers for years and is one of the best examples of the genre.
One thing that this game does well is that though it is in a series you do not have to have played the passed Witcher games to be able to jump into the story. The engaging characters and impeccable story telling make you feel immersed within the game. The unfolding of events and information within the story invite you to come along on the journey rather than bogging you down with your potential lack of background with the franchise.
This is not a quick playthrough and you will need to invest some time into completing the game. But this can be done in bites and if you are a fan of the genre you will likely be rewarded with a fun gaming experience. If you’re considering whether you should play The Witcher 3 then look no further. This article is for you.
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Story
The game starts off with an introduction of the land’s current setting before jumping to the protagonist, or the titular witcher, Geralt of Rivia. The land is plagued by monsters of every kind and this issue brings about the creation of witchers. Witchers are genetically enhanced super humans trained in the art of monster hunting and magic to keep the monster population down. However, the witcher profession is seen by many as a blight on the world causing the witchers to be pushed into seclusion.
Geralt is on the hunt to try and find his long-lost adopted daughter Ciri after receiving a somewhat vague letter from his long time situationship known as Yennnifer. Geralt and his mentor Vessimer set out to find her. Upon meeting with Yennifer Geralt realizes that trying to find Ciri will not be easy as the land is plagued by monsters, war, and the otherworldly.
As you travel the continent following Ciri’s trail you’ll meet new characters, fight monsters, brew potions, solve problems, and be given the chance to be an all-around cool dude. The storytelling of the game is very well done. Given that this set of game is based off a book series it would be a shame if it weren’t.
This game’s story is crafted in a way that invites you into the story rather than making you strain to know what is going on. The world of The Witcher series has its lore and gritty politics just like any other. But CD Project Red leads you through the world with ease constantly making you feel like an active player within it.
Gameplay
The Witcher 3 is an RPG in which you explore, fight, forage, and socialize (excuse me while I say a silent prayer for all the players who are introverts). Most of your time will be taken up by foraging and socializing. Navigating the world is not terribly hard and the game does an extensive job of giving you the information that you need to be able to move through your travels with ease.
CD Project Red did an amazing job of guiding the player through the game by easing them in through well thought out tutorials and control highlights. And this is helpful because the number of controls in this game can become overwhelming.
I myself struggle with the amount of buttons that I need to press to be able to complete tasks such as switching between spells while in combat (Yes I did learn this skill the hard way). This is by far the hardest part of the game and can be learned with some practice.
Speaking of combat this aspect of the game is generally straight forward. Most combat is done with sword, fist, or crossbow. Hacking and slashing will get you far at first though learning how to perry, dodge, and utilizing the guard option as well as your “spells” (signs) are tremendous life savers.
The game utilizes an old school leveling and gear upgrades system so there is not a lot of strategy involved within playing the game. Swing your sword, shoot some arrows, set some things on fire. Rinse and repeat. Preferably with stronger armor and a higher XP level.
Pros
- This RPG RPGs and has all the fun staples of the genre.
- Fantastic storytelling.
- Interesting fantasy world.
- Insightful tutorials that ease you into the gameplay.
- Foraging, alchemy, and crafting are just as important as combat.
- Romanceable options.
- You can have a sword that glows pink if you know where to look.
Cons
- Lots of controls to remember.
- Crafting is technically optional, but the game does encourage this, which might be a bit taxing for players who are not interested in creating potions or foraging.
- You do play as Geralt so there is no character creation. Again, not necessarily a bad thing but might be a con for those looking to forge their own unique path.
- There’s a lot of prejudice against your character. If you do not like the idea of being spat on by random NPCs maybe rethink this game.
Conclusion
The Witcher franchise is a fascinating and interesting world to sink your teeth into. If you’re looking for a new fantasy RPG to add to your repertoire that includes hunting monsters, exploring a cottagecore fantasy realm, and using superhuman powers then consider checking out The Witcher 3.
While this game’s mechanics can be overwhelming (as fantasy RPGs tend to be) the developers did a fantastic job framing the game for newer players. While there is a learning curve, you will have a much easier time learning the ropes then you may initially think. If you’re looking for a game that will ease you into the fantasy RPG genre while also giving you an extensively fun and interesting playthrough consider purchasing The Witcher 3.
Ready to join Geralt on his journey? You can purchase The Witcher 3 at these online retailers:
Nintendo eshop (Switch): Buy.
Steam (PC): Buy.
Humble Bundle (PC): Buy.
GOG (PC): Buy.
Looking for something to play that has more of a real life domestic feel to is? Check out my article on The Sims 4 here to see if life on the domestic side is right for you.
