Let me start by saying that I am a fan of The Witcher series but not a die hard one. I never played the first game and did enjoy the second greatly.
But that didn't prepare me for this. The Witcher 3 has the most stunning atmosphere I have ever experienced in a game. It's vibrant, dark, realistic and utterly mesmerising. Alongside the captivating and well varied landscape is an excellently written and gripping story with brilliant gameplay that stands up in its own right. However, the atmosphere that is created by the environment and music in combination with the people that live within it, is just irresistible.
Once again we are seeing realistic fantasy, in a way that echoes with Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. We are seeing the adversities of the real world mirrored in this virtual universe which allows the gamer to identify with it in a meaningful way.
The characters that live within the beautiful world are so often compromised by the hardships of life that it contrasts in an enthralling way to the natural beauty that you - the gamer are surrounded in. Each person playing is finding their own way, making different decisions that change the character you are and how you see the world around you. It gives your story an unparalleled sense of individuality.
Enjoyable dialogue and in-depth character building drive the game forward and give you something to really care about. Geralt's close group of friends is an example of this. The decisions you make will determine the outcome of these characters and the same can be said about the more morally questionable personalities. These kinds of relationships and interactions are another way to immerse you further and relate to the world.
Even more simple aspects of the game such as the aesthetics of character and gear design are achieved at such a high level. It doesn't matter weather you are talking to a king or a peasant the attention to detail is consistently great to the point where they really do come to life. Every sword and boot you find, buy or craft is unique. Every element feels brilliantly in tandem with the rest of the world.
Does the game have any shortcomings? Yes it does. I could sit here and nit pick parts of this game such as repetitive quests involving dungeons, repeated generic dialogue and a few bugs. My biggest complaint is a lack of explanation and context to continuing after the story has ended. But I can forgive it with such ease because it is truly immersive in ways that no other games or entertainment mediums can be. It finally maximises the potential of gaming. I feel very sorry for the large percentage of the population that can't or won't experience it because of cultural norms and acceptances.
For 9 days I was in another world, coming out of it at the end really took some re-adjusting because I was so captivated by the universe that CD Projekt Red have created. They are truly masters of the trade.
This was the game I was waiting for, it might just be for you as well.
Thank you CD Projekt Red, I am very much looking forward to what you have in store for us next.