Few RPGs have had the lasting impact of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Released in 2015 by CD Projekt Red, this sprawling fantasy epic redefined what an open-world RPG could be, delivering a compelling story, rich world-building, and some of the best side quests in gaming history. Even years after its release, The Witcher 3 remains a benchmark for storytelling and player choice in open-world games.
A Rich and Immersive World
The Continent, the setting of The Witcher 3, is one of the most meticulously crafted open worlds in gaming. From the war-torn lands of Velen to the bustling city of Novigrad and the stunning islands of Skellige, each region is distinct and filled with life. The level of detail is staggering—villages have their own customs, NPCs go about their daily routines, and even seemingly minor locations have stories to tell.
Unlike many open-world games that rely on repetitive fetch quests, The Witcher 3 fills its world with meaningful content. Every town, cave, and ruin has a story behind it. Side quests aren’t just distractions—they often feature deep narratives, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists. One of the game’s greatest strengths is how even the smallest quests can have significant emotional weight, sometimes rivaling the main storyline in quality.
A Compelling Story and Unforgettable Characters
At the heart of The Witcher 3 is Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter (or Witcher) searching for his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is being pursued by the mysterious and terrifying Wild Hunt. This journey takes players across a world filled with war, political intrigue, and supernatural threats. The main story is gripping, with plenty of twists and powerful emotional moments, but what makes The Witcher 3 truly special is its characters.
Geralt is one of gaming’s most well-developed protagonists. While he may seem like a cold mercenary at first, his dry wit, personal struggles, and complex relationships make him an incredibly compelling character. The game also features a fantastic supporting cast, including Yennefer, Triss, and Dandelion, each with their own motivations and arcs. Ciri, in particular, stands out as one of the best-written characters in gaming, and the bond between her and Geralt serves as the emotional core of the game.
One of the most impressive aspects of the storytelling is how player choice affects the narrative. Decisions made throughout the game can lead to different outcomes, from minor character fates to multiple major endings. These choices often aren’t black and white—morality in The Witcher 3 is nuanced, forcing players to think carefully about their actions.
Deep and Satisfying Combat
Combat in The Witcher 3 blends swordplay, magic, and alchemy, creating a system that is both tactical and fluid. Geralt wields two swords—one for humans and one for monsters—and has access to a variety of magical signs that can be used to stun, burn, or shield himself from enemies. Dodging, parrying, and using potions are all essential, especially when facing tougher foes.
One of the game’s highlights is its monster hunting. Unlike other RPGs where enemies are simply obstacles, The Witcher 3 makes monster encounters feel like real hunts. Players must research their prey, prepare the right potions and bombs, and use strategy to take them down. Each creature has its own lore and behaviors, making every fight feel unique.
Incredible Expansions That Add Even More Depth
While the base game is already massive, The Witcher 3’s two expansions—Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine—are some of the best DLCs ever made. Hearts of Stone tells a dark, folklore-inspired story that rivals the main game in quality, while Blood and Wine introduces the beautiful land of Toussaint, essentially serving as a second full-length game.
Minor Flaws
While The Witcher 3 is nearly perfect, it isn’t without a few flaws. The combat, while enjoyable, isn’t as deep as some other action RPGs. Some animations can feel stiff, and inventory management can be clunky, especially when dealing with alchemy and crafting. The game also had technical issues at launch, though patches and the next-gen update have significantly improved performance.
Final Verdict
Despite these minor issues, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a masterpiece. Its rich world, complex characters, and impactful storytelling make it one of the greatest RPGs of all time. Whether you’re a fan of deep role-playing experiences or just love well-crafted stories, The Witcher 3 is an absolute must-play.
Final Score: 10/10 – A legendary RPG that sets the standard for open-world storytelling.
