It's not all slash, slash, slash button bashing either parry, dodge and use of stronger sword attacks in combination deal with different foes. The Witcher 3 is no plodding turn-based role-player: you'll need to attack in fast-paced, real-time scenarios. But there's a whole lot to master, which takes time to then apply effectively in the game. It's from here the basics of combat are learned, in a flashback to Ciri's childhood. Ok, so Geralt, the witcher you play, might've been listening to Christian Bale's Batman a little too much, but his husky voice becomes part of the game's charm.Īfter the main cutscene kicks-off proceedings - in hand-drawn graphic novel style with story narrator, a theme that continues with each loading and progress scene, but that feels distant from the style otherwise used within the game - the story begins with you seeking Ciri, your adopted daughter, who, for reasons unknown at the time, the evil Wild Hunt seek. The open landscape throws you into a world of magic and combat, led by enticing characters and great acting that will keep you hooked. Even now, five years later, it's still a huge world to explore. When it arrived back in 2015 there was no game of the same epic scale as The Witcher 3. Here's why, whether you're a fantasy fan or not, it's still a stone cold classic of RPGs. So, attention grabbed, nipples acknowledged, we've spent dozens of hours delving into The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's world, exploring its decision-based storyline, side missions and sprawling landscapes. With millions of Game of Thrones fans the world over, there are inevitable comparisons - c'mon, even Charles Dance, voice of Tywin Lannister in Game of Thrones, voices Emperor Emhyr var Emreis here - despite Andrzej Sapkowski's short stories preceding those of George RR Martin.īut whether you're an existing fan, a newcomer, or someone who's looking to replay the game on Nintendo Switch (that's why we're updating this review), the swordplay, magic, monsters and fire gods certainly make for damn good entertainment.