***FULL DISCLOSURE*** - I am writing this review while only about 6 hours into the game. Having read so many insanely glowing reviews, I absolutely had to snatch this up when I saw the GOTY edition on sale here for $15. And so far, all I can say is WOW, the reviews were spot on. A quick breakdown of my impressions thus far: GRAPHICS - Utterly gorgeous. The first rendered cutscene with Geralt and Vesemir was shocking in it's almost movie-like quality. I had to stop for a moment and and simply admire the scenery when I came upon a stunning sunset as I crested a hill on horseback. The character models and expressions are some of the best I've yet seen in a game. Only the water effects leave maybe a bit to be desired, but that's nitpicking. AUDIO - Outstanding. The voice-acting is top notch, and the music and sound effects complement the visuals perfectly. CONTROLS - I am using an x-input controller and the controls, as well as the UI, are fantastic. All of the menus are arranged to emphasize ease of access. Inventory and character management are handled extremely well, and combat is fluid and intuitive. GAMEPLAY - So far, so good...oh so good. The tutorial system is helpful while not being overbearing, and the story thus far is engaging and gives the player a true sense of purpose beyond simple "fetch this" and "kill this" tasks. The NPC's are well fleshed-out (some more than others - I'm looking at you Tomira), and help give the game world a strong identity. If you haven't grabbed this game before now, do yourself a huge favor and grab it while it's on sale. Fifteen bucks is an absolute STEAL for this game, whether or not you're a typical RPG fan, and whether or not you've played the previous installments.
I figured I'd chime in. If you can bash a game without actually playing it, I suppose I can lavish praise on it in the same fashion. For those who think the game is in poor taste, fine...don't buy it. But how about let's keep this site free from the childish ass cancel culture that says if I don't like it, it shouldn't exist. Because I can promise you this, for everyone of you who think this way, there are a likely a boatload of people who don't like you...should you be canceled??
