All of those are just single playthroughs, there are also the expansions.

This brings us to the question, should you dedicate at least 100 hours on the first twoWitchergames?

On the other hand, the franchise is a trilogy that relies heavily on narrative.

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They had a more niche vision in mind for the firstWitchergame.

Even the user-interface of the game speaks volumes for the Gothic style.

Additionally, the music is a lot heavier here with the harmonic combination of violins and electric guitar.

The Witcher Enhanced Edition poster

For some, this less mainstream feel for the game makes it more memorable.

Mods can help with the visuals but only to a certain degree.

CD Projekt RED overhauled everything from their first game and experimented with new things.

Geralt from The Witcher

It does let you switch to an over-the-shoulder action perspective but it’s still awkward regardless.

Meanwhile,The Witcher 2improved a lot but feels more likeThe Witcher 3’s combat on its infancy stage.

It’s way too unrefined and is akin toDark Soulsbut with less weapon variety and fewer move sets.

Witcher 2

CD Projekt RED really did admirably translating Andrej Sapkowski’sWitchernovels into the gaming medium.

Of course, some rough spots were present; they were still a small studio back then.

What came after that was a convoluted yet intriguing tale about regicide that stands out well on its own.

The Witcher 1 combat

As such, they weren’t as popular as they are now.

Consequently, the first twoWitchergames offered a lot less liberty to players than the third game.

They were open-world, only, they’re a bit cramped by today’s standards.

Geralt and King Foltest from The Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings

On top of that, Geralt also can’t jump in both games, making navigation quite tedious.

Both of them are chock full of things to do for Geralt of Rivia which can keepWitcherfans busy.

These are also big events (especially the main quests) and are worth seeing for your own eyes.

Geralt in prison from The Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings

Plus, you’ll finally understand what most of the characters are talking about.

This is also why the third game is and always will be the definitiveWitchervideo game.

NEXT:Witcher 3: 10 Things You Won’t Understand If You Didn’t Play The First Two Games

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The Witcher 1 towns

Geralt, Ciri, Triss, Yennefer and many other characters all posing for photo in the witcher 3

Ciri kneeling by a raven at night

The Witcher 3

The Witcher