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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Item: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Drama, Single Player

AvailableMay 18, 2015

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperCD Projekt Red Studio

Overview

RPG and sequel to The Witcher 2 (2011), The Witcher 3 follows witcher Geralt of Rivia as he seeks out his former lover and his young subject while intermingling with the political workings of the wartorn Northern Kingdoms. Geralt has to fight monsters and deal with people of all sorts in order to solve complex problems and settle contentious disputes, each ranging from the personal to the world-changing.

Elsewhere

9.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is widely praised for its deep narrative and character development, particularly Geralt's quest to find Ciri, with critics commending its emotional weight and rich world-building. However, some reviewers criticize the main story for feeling like a "wild goose chase" due to padding from fetch quests, overshadowing the main plot with more engaging side quests. Despite these criticisms, the game is celebrated for its intricate storytelling and moral complexity, making it a standout RPG that resonates with both newcomers and veterans alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its depth and complexity. Reviewers like NZGamer and Game Informer highlight the engaging narrative centered on Geralt's quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, emphasizing the emotional weight of the character relationships and the rich world-building. Critics such as Shacknews and GameSpot note the intricate weaving of personal tragedies and moral complexities that enhance the storytelling experience. The game is also recognized for its well-developed side quests, which many reviewers, including Digital Spy and Game Revolution, argue often overshadow the main plot, creating a tapestry of interconnected narratives that resonate with players. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics express concerns about the main story's execution. IGN reviewers, across multiple platforms, consistently describe the main quest as feeling like a "wild goose chase" filled with padding from fetch quests and collectathons, detracting from the overall narrative experience. DarkStation and Metro GameCentral echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the emotional depth of Geralt's character is appreciated, the main plot lacks significant evolution and can feel less interesting compared to the side content. This critique suggests a divide between the main storyline's perceived linearity and the richness of the surrounding quests. In conclusion, while there are valid criticisms regarding the pacing and focus of the main story, the consensus among critics is that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a compelling and immersive narrative experience. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and GamingTrend, appreciate the emotional depth and moral choices that shape the story, asserting that the game successfully balances accessibility for newcomers with rewarding content for long-time fans. Overall, the game is celebrated for its character development, intricate plotlines, and the emotional journey of its protagonist, solidifying its status as a standout title in the RPG genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt impresses with its rich world and engaging gameplay, earning praise for its vast quests and fluid combat system. However, critics highlight shortcomings like simplistic combat, targeting issues, and technical glitches that hinder the experience. While the game excels in storytelling and immersion, it ultimately suffers from inconsistencies and bugs, leaving a mixed impression on the overall gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting its rich content and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Arcade Sushi and GameSpot, commend the game for its vast open world filled with meaningful quests that enhance player immersion. The combat system is often described as fluid and satisfying, with critics like Game Informer and PlayStation Universe noting the balance between offense and defense, which allows for a dynamic combat experience. Additionally, the incorporation of strategic elements and player choice, as pointed out by Attack of the Fanboy and Digitally Downloaded, adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging exploration and thoughtful engagement with the game's mechanics. However, despite these strengths, a significant number of critics have pointed out various shortcomings in the gameplay. Critics such as NZGamer and Digital Spy express concerns over the combat's lack of depth and consistency, describing it as overly simplistic and repetitive. The targeting system has been criticized for being a hindrance, and some reviewers, like Eurogamer Italy and SpazioGames, note that the combat can feel chaotic rather than strategic. Technical issues, including bugs and AI problems, have also been mentioned by several critics, including Guardian and GRYOnline.pl, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a compelling and expansive gameplay experience, it is marred by inconsistencies and technical flaws. Many reviewers acknowledge the game's strengths in storytelling and world-building, as highlighted by Hardcore Gamer and InsideGamer.nl, but they also emphasize the need for improvement in combat mechanics and overall polish. Critics like CGMagazine and Gaming Age recognize the potential for a rich RPG experience, yet they agree that the execution falls short in certain areas, leaving a mixed impression of the gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt dazzles with stunning visuals and immersive world-building, earning widespread acclaim from critics for its detail, dynamic weather, and day/night cycles. However, technical issues—like frame rate drops and graphical glitches, especially on consoles—have been noted as detractors from the experience. Despite these flaws, the game's breathtaking graphics largely overshadow the criticisms, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier open-world title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game's stunning visuals and immersive world. Reviewers like Critical Hit and GameSpot highlight the meticulous attention to detail in environments, character models, and lighting, contributing to a captivating visual experience. Critics from NZGamer and Game Rant also commend the beautifully designed world, noting that the environments are rich in detail and contribute significantly to the game's immersive qualities. The dynamic weather effects and day/night cycles, as noted by Pure Xbox and Dealspwn, further enhance the visual appeal, making the game stand out among its contemporaries. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable technical shortcomings that detract from the overall visual experience. Reviewers such as Game Revolution and Multiplayer.it mentioned issues like flat colors, pop-in effects, and frame rate drops, particularly on console versions. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Metro GameCentral echoed these sentiments, citing performance issues such as screen tearing and instability that can disrupt immersion. Even though the graphics are impressive, critics like ActionTrip and PSX Extreme noted that certain areas lack the visual splendor expected from such a highly regarded title, indicating that the game's performance on consoles does not always match its visual ambitions. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt features an exceptionally beautiful and immersive world, with many praising its stunning graphics and intricate design. While technical issues on consoles, such as frame rate drops and graphical glitches, have been highlighted by multiple reviewers, the majority agree that these shortcomings do not significantly diminish the overall experience. As noted by critics like GameSpot and RPGamer, the game remains visually captivating, especially on higher settings, solidifying its status as one of the best-looking open-world games available. The positive reception of its graphics and visual design ultimately outweighs the criticisms, reinforcing the game's legacy in the gaming community.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt boasts overwhelmingly positive reviews for its sound design and music, with critics lauding its emotional depth and immersive qualities. The orchestral soundtrack and stellar voice acting enhance the gaming experience, though some note minor issues like repetitive combat scores and a lack of variety in compositions. Overall, the audio elements are celebrated as a key factor in the game's success.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its immersive qualities and emotional depth. Reviewers such as 3DJuegos and Atomix highlight the effective sound design that enhances the gaming experience, while Cheat Code Central emphasizes the excellent voice acting and music that contribute to immersion. The soundtrack, particularly noted for its orchestral compositions and collaboration with the band Percival, is frequently described as captivating and fitting, as mentioned by Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr. Critics like GameSpot and Merlin'in Kazanı commend the music for its ability to evoke strong emotions, with euphoric melodies and haunting ballads that complement the game's narrative and atmosphere. Despite the accolades, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. GameOver.gr noted that the music is subjective and did not provide extensive critiques, indicating a lack of consensus on certain musical aspects. MMORPG.com mentioned that the combat score can be repetitive, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Vandal remarked that while the soundtrack is excellent, it lacks variety in compositions, suggesting that certain tracks may become less impactful over time. These critiques, although not widespread, indicate that there are areas where the sound design and music could be improved. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt excels in sound design and music, significantly enhancing the immersive experience of the game. With numerous reviewers praising the orchestral score, natural sound effects, and stellar voice acting, it is clear that the audio elements play a crucial role in the game's success. Critics like Push Square and SpazioGames encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the high quality of the audio, which complements the game's atmosphere beautifully. Overall, while there are some minor criticisms regarding repetition and subjectivity, the majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the game's sound design and music, affirming its status as a standout feature of the title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

TL;DR: The voice acting in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is largely praised as a key element that enriches the game’s storytelling and character development, with standout performances that bring emotional depth. Critics hail it as "top-notch" and "sensational," especially praising Geralt's portrayal. However, some note flaws, like Geralt's romantic dialogue feeling "ridiculous" and issues with certain dubbing versions that could affect immersion. Overall, despite minor critiques, the voice acting is celebrated as a major strength that enhances player engagement in the game's world.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's immersive experience and narrative depth. Many reviewers, including 3DJuegos and Atomix, praised the voice acting as "well-executed" and "top-notch," respectively, emphasizing how it brings characters to life and enhances the storytelling. Eurogamer Italy referred to the performances as "sensational," while Cheat Code Central noted that the voice cast, particularly the portrayal of Geralt, is "at the top of their game." The consensus among critics such as Digital Spy and GameSpot is that the voice acting not only adds emotional weight but also enriches character interactions, making the game feel more engaging and alive. However, not all feedback was uniformly positive. Some critics pointed out specific shortcomings, such as Gameplanet's observation that Geralt's voice acting could come off as "ridiculous" during romantic dialogue, which detracted from the overall experience for some players. Metro GameCentral echoed this sentiment, describing Geralt's portrayal as having an element of "try-hard machismo." Additionally, GRYOnline.pl criticized the Polish dubbing for being poorly executed in certain instances, which could affect the experience for players who prefer that version. MondoXbox also noted that the lack of Italian dubbing could hinder immersion for non-English speakers, suggesting that language barriers might limit the appreciation of the voice performances. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a standout feature that greatly enhances the game. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the quality of performances, with many noting that the voice acting adds depth and credibility to the characters and the narrative. Critics like IGN and GamingTrend highlighted the emotional payoff and depth provided by the voice cast, while others, such as The Jimquisition and Xbox Achievements, emphasized the charm and engagement of the performances. Despite some minor criticisms, the prevailing sentiment is that the voice acting significantly contributes to the game's success and its ability to immerse players in its richly crafted world.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt delivers a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. PS4 struggles with numerous bugs, crashes, and framerate dips, earning it a less favorable critique. Xbox One sees some improvement but still suffers from glitches and control issues. PC generally shines post-patches but still has its share of bugs. Overall, while the game is ambitious and immersive, its inconsistent performance highlights significant room for improvement across all systems.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 4, some reviewers like AusGamers noted that the game runs smoothly at 1080p without significant performance dips, showcasing its technical prowess. Similarly, Impulsegamer found that the game performed well overall, with few technical issues reported, and PlayStation Universe acknowledged minor flaws like occasional framerate dips that did not detract significantly from the experience. On the Xbox One, while IGN pointed out that the performance is compromised, they also mentioned that minor glitches do not impact gameplay meaningfully. Critics like Games.cz highlighted that the optimization for consoles is commendable, resulting in a generally smooth experience, especially after initial patches. The PC version has received praise for its performance, with RPGamer stating it performs splendidly and rarely crashes, while GRYOnline.pl noted that the overall technical performance is strong, particularly after patches. Despite the positives, the technical performance of The Witcher 3 has faced significant criticism, especially on the PlayStation 4. Many reviewers, including PSX Extreme and Polygon, reported numerous technical issues, such as bugs, glitches, crashes, and framerate drops that significantly impact gameplay. VideoGamer and Dealspwn echoed these sentiments, mentioning showstopping loading issues and collision detection problems. On the Xbox One, critics like The Jimquisition and COGconnected pointed out various technical issues, including cluttered menus, unresponsive controls, and glitches that disrupt gameplay. The PC version, while generally stable, is not without its faults; PCWorld and MMORPG.com noted bugs and crashes that detract from the overall experience, particularly for players with less powerful setups. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers an ambitious and immersive experience, its technical performance varies significantly across platforms. On the PlayStation 4, the game is marred by numerous bugs and performance issues, leading to a less favorable reception, as noted by critics like GameCrate and InsideGamer.nl. The Xbox One version, while smoother than the PS4 in some respects, still suffers from notable glitches and performance hiccups, as highlighted by IGN and The Jimquisition. In contrast, the PC version generally receives praise for its performance, particularly after patches, although it is not without its own share of bugs, as mentioned by critics like GameSpot and PC Gamer. This disparity in technical performance suggests that while the game has the potential for greatness, it is hindered by various issues that need to be addressed across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt boasts exceptional replay value, praised for its expansive world, intricate narrative, and diverse side quests that offer 36 different world states and impactful player choices. Critics highlight the engaging Gwent minigame and a staggering 100+ hours of content as major draws. However, concerns about quest fatigue, repetitive main storylines, and technical issues pose challenges. Despite some criticisms, the game's depth and variety of outcomes solidify its reputation as a must-revisit title for gamers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's vast open world, rich narrative, and the multitude of side quests that significantly enhance replayability. For instance, Game Informer notes the existence of 36 different world states depending on player actions, while GameSpot emphasizes how player choices impact the game’s narrative, encouraging exploration of different paths. Critics like Arcade Sushi and Digital Chumps also mention the engaging Gwent minigame and the wealth of optional content, which contribute to a compelling reason for players to return to the game. The sheer amount of content, with some estimates suggesting over 100 hours of gameplay, is frequently cited as a major factor that enhances replay value. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value as well. GameCritics expresses concerns about potential quest burnout due to the sheer volume of side quests and activities, suggesting that pursuing them all can become tedious. Similarly, Softpedia points out the repetitive nature of the main story, which might detract from the overall replay experience. Some critics, such as GRYOnline.pl, mention that technical issues could also deter players from revisiting the game. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciate the branching narratives and multiple endings, there are mentions of disappointment with certain endings, as noted by Game Informer, which may lead to some players feeling less inclined to replay the game. Despite the mixed opinions on certain aspects, the overall consensus among critics is that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers significant replay value, primarily due to its expansive world and the impact of player choices. Critics like Cheat Code Central and Impulsegamer highlight the importance of nuanced decision-making and the variety of quests available, which encourage players to explore different outcomes. The game’s ability to provide a fresh experience with each playthrough, as noted by multiple reviewers, solidifies its status as a highly replayable title. Thus, while some concerns exist, the majority of critics agree that the game's depth and content make it worthwhile for players to return time and again.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its rich storytelling, expansive world, and engaging gameplay. Critics like Gameblog.fr and DarkStation highlight the game's exceptional narrative and immersive world, calling it a "masterfully crafted RPG" and a "pivotal moment in gaming history," respectively. The depth of character development and the moral complexities presented in quests were also frequently commended, as noted by Game Rant and PlayStation LifeStyle, who emphasized the game's ability to reward player choices and provide a deeply affecting experience. Critics across the board acknowledged the game's ambitious scope and its contribution to the RPG genre, with many deeming it a must-play title for fans. However, despite the overwhelming praise, several reviewers pointed out notable technical issues that detracted from the overall experience. Critics such as NZGamer and Polygon expressed concerns about glitches, performance problems, and the game’s treatment of women, which they felt negatively impacted their enjoyment. Others like VideoGamer and GamesRadar+ echoed these sentiments, pointing out that while the world design is impressive, the technical flaws, particularly on console versions, hinder the experience. The mixed opinions on the main story's fulfillment, as mentioned by IGN, also contributed to a sense of dissatisfaction among some players, indicating that while the side quests were engaging, the main narrative did not live up to the same standard. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a landmark achievement in the RPG genre, despite its technical shortcomings. The majority of reviewers, including those from Eurogamer Poland and Digital Trends, regard it as one of the best games of its time, praising its storytelling and world-building while acknowledging the flaws that come with such an expansive title. Overall, while the game is not without its issues, the positives overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives, leading to a strong recommendation for both newcomers and veterans of the genre.

TL;DR

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is hailed as a landmark RPG with rich storytelling, immersive world-building, and deep character development, making it a must-play. Critics laud its narrative depth, despite noting technical issues and performance glitches, particularly on consoles. While some take issue with the main story's execution and treatment of women, the overwhelming consensus is that its strengths far outweigh its flaws, solidifying its place as one of the best games of its era.

MONSTER

Reviews

201 reviews found

100

Ragequit.gr

May 25, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher III: Wild Hunt is positioned as a monumental achievement in gaming, redefining the RPG genre and offering a transformative experience.

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100

GameSpot

Jun 2, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is hailed as one of the best role-playing games ever made, setting a high standard for the genre with its rich storytelling, immersive gameplay, and stunning visuals.

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100

Quarter to Three

Jun 16, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is hailed as one of the best RPGs ever made, with a compelling story and rich character development that sets a new standard for the genre.

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100

DarkStation

Jun 10, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is hailed as a near-perfect RPG, combining responsive combat, a vast world, and memorable characters, marking a splendid conclusion to the trilogy.

100

Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 4

May 24, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a remarkable blend of expansive open-world content and engaging storytelling, making it a must-play title for both newcomers and series veterans.

100

Games.cz

Xbox One

Jun 4, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, 'The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt' is portrayed as a masterful blend of storytelling, gameplay, and world-building, setting a high standard for RPGs and leaving a lasting impact on players.

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100

The Digital Fix

PlayStation 4

Jun 10, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an outstanding achievement in RPGs, praised for its size, scale, and engaging mechanics, making it a must-play.

100

Push Square

PlayStation 4

May 18, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt sets a new standard for open world RPGs, combining superb storytelling, refined combat, and a beautifully crafted world into a masterpiece.

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100

Eurogamer Poland

PlayStation 4

May 12, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Witcher 3 is described as a beautiful, rich, and uncompromising game, regarded as one of the best video games of all time.

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100

ZTGD

Xbox One

May 29, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

This is easily one of the best games of 2015, the best fantasy RPG played to date, and the best open-world game since Rockstar's Red Dead Redemption. It is a must-own game.

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